Breed History:

The Harrier is a medium-sized scenthound that originated in England during the Middle Ages. Developed primarily for hunting hares in packs, the breed is believed to descend from a combination of early English hounds, including the English Foxhound, Bloodhound, and smaller hunting hounds.

Harrier packs have been documented since the 13th century, making the breed one of Britain's oldest hunting dogs. Valued for its stamina, speed, and exceptional scenting ability, the Harrier was bred to follow game over long distances while working closely with other hounds.

Today, although still used as a hunting dog in some regions, the Harrier is also appreciated as an energetic family companion.

Gender	Height	Weight
Male	48–55 cm	20–27 kg
Female	48–53 cm	18–25 kg

Size: Medium

Life Expectancy: 12–15 years

Breed Appearance:

The Harrier is a strong, athletic, and well-balanced scenthound.

The breed commonly features:

• Broad head with a moderately long muzzle

• Large brown or hazel eyes

• Long, pendant ears

• Deep chest and muscular body

• Medium-length tail carried upright when active

Its coat is short, dense, hard, and weather-resistant.

Common coat colours include:

• Tricolour (black, white, and tan)

• Lemon and white

• Red and white

• White and tan

The Harrier closely resembles a smaller English Foxhound but is more compact and sturdier.

Breed Type – Scenthound:

The Harrier is an energetic, friendly, and determined hunting breed.

It is known for being:

• Friendly and outgoing

• Loyal and affectionate

• Intelligent and curious

• Energetic and athletic

• Sociable with other dogs

As a pack hound, the breed typically gets along well with other dogs and enjoys companionship.

Its powerful nose and tracking instincts remain highly developed.

Training:

The Harrier is intelligent but can be independent while following scents.

Training should focus on:

• Early socialisation

• Positive reinforcement methods

• Recall training

• Obedience exercises

• Scent-work activities

The breed excels in:

• Tracking

• Nose work

• Hunting trials

• Agility

• Obedience

Training should be varied and engaging, as Harriers may lose interest in repetitive sessions.

Health & Care:

The Harrier is generally healthy but may occasionally be prone to:

• Hip dysplasia

• Ear infections

• Hypothyroidism

• Eye disorders

Routine veterinary care, weight management, and regular ear cleaning help maintain overall health.

Living Conditions:

The Harrier is best suited to active households.

Ideal environments include:

• Houses with secure fenced yards

• Rural or suburban homes

• Active families

• Homes with access to outdoor activities

Apartment living is generally not recommended unless the dog receives extensive daily exercise.

Because of its strong scent drive, secure fencing is important.

Exercise:

The Harrier has high exercise requirements.

Recommended activities include:

• Long daily walks or runs

• Tracking and scent games

• Hiking

• Fetch

• Canine sports

• Interactive play sessions

The breed thrives when given both physical exercise and mental stimulation.

Grooming:

The short coat is easy to maintain.

• Weekly brushing

• Occasional bathing as needed

• Regular ear cleaning

• Routine nail trimming

• Regular dental care

The Harrier sheds moderately throughout the year.

Advantages:

• Friendly and affectionate family companion

• Excellent scenting and tracking abilities

• Good with children and other dogs

• Athletic and energetic

• Low-maintenance coat

• Generally healthy and hardy

Disadvantages:

• High exercise and mental stimulation requirements

• Strong prey drive may make recall difficult

• Can become vocal while following scents

• May wander if not kept in a secure area

• Not well suited to sedentary lifestyles

• Moderate shedding

• Can become bored and destructive if under-exercised