Harrier Dog: A Versatile Hound for Active Families

Looking for a ever-changing and versatile canine companion? Meet the Harrier, a medium-sized scent hound with a rich history and striking appearance. This breed, originating from medieval England, has captivated dog enthusiasts for centuries with its sleek physique and enthusiastic personality.

We’ll explore the intriguing area of Harriers, from their origins as skilled hunters to their role as modern-day pets. Discover why these dogs, with their keen sense of smell and exceptional stamina, excel in scent-tracking activities. We’ll investigate into their distinctive features, including their expressive eyes, velvety ears, and weather-resistant coat, which comes in a variety of eye-catching color combinations. Whether you’re considering adding a Harrier to your family or simply curious about this remarkable breed, you’re in for a treat.

What Is a Harrier Dog?

The Harrier is a medium-sized hound breed with a rich history dating back to medieval England. Originally bred for hunting hares and small game in packs, these dogs have evolved into versatile companions while retaining their keen hunting instincts.

Physical Characteristics

Harriers possess a distinctive appearance that sets them apart from other hound breeds:

• Size: Standing 18-22 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 40-60 pounds, Harriers are larger than Beagles but smaller than English Foxhounds.
• Build: They have a sturdy, large-boned structure with lean, muscular legs that contribute to their effortless gait.
• Head: Harriers feature a medium-sized head with prominent eyebrows, giving them an expressive face.
• Eyes: Their eyes are either brown or hazel, set far apart, and contribute to their alert expression.
• Ears: Velvety ears lie close to their cheeks but stand straight up when the dog is alert.
• Tail: A tapered tail usually stands upright but moves based on the dog’s mood.

Coat and Colors

The Harrier’s coat is designed to withstand various weather conditions:

• Texture: Short, smooth, and dense double coat
• Maintenance: Low-maintenance due to its natural weather-resistant properties
• Colors: Harriers come in various color combinations, including:
• Black, white, and tan
• Lemon and white
• Red and white

This glossy, weatherproof coat protects the Harrier during outdoor activities, making them well-suited for various environments.

Temperament and Personality

Harriers are known for their friendly and outgoing nature:

• Sociable: They’re highly social dogs that get along well with children and other dogs when properly socialized.
• Energetic: With a high energy level, Harriers require regular exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
• Cheerful: Their people-oriented nature makes them excellent companions for active families.

Hunting Abilities

Even though their evolution into family pets, Harriers retain their hunting instincts:

• Scent tracking: They excel in scent-tracking activities due to their keen sense of smell.
• Stamina: Exceptional endurance allows them to engage in prolonged outdoor activities.
• Pack mentality: Originally bred to work in packs, Harriers often do well in multi-dog households.

Understanding the Harrier’s physical traits, temperament, and historical background provides valuable insight into this versatile breed. Whether as a hunting companion or a family pet, the Harrier’s unique characteristics make it a fascinating and capable canine.

Harrier Breed History

The Harrier breed boasts a rich and fascinating history dating back centuries. We’ll explore the origins, development, and historical use of these remarkable hounds.

Origins

The Harrier’s exact origins are subject to debate, with several theories proposing different ancestral lines:

1. Bloodhound Lineage: One theory suggests early Harriers resulted from crossbreeding Bloodhounds, Talbot Hounds, and possibly Basset Hounds.
2. Foxhound Mixture: Another perspective proposes Harriers developed from crosses between English Foxhounds, Fox Terriers, and Greyhounds.
3. Miniature Foxhound: A third theory views Harriers as smaller versions of English Foxhounds, bred down in size for exact hunting purposes.

Historical Use

Harriers have been utilized for hunting since the mid-13th century, primarily for trailing hares. Their development focused on creating a versatile hound that could:

• Be followed on foot during hunts
• Adapt to horseback hunting with increased speed and agility
• Trail both hares and foxes effectively

Notable Developments

1. Sir Elias de Midhope: In 1260 AD, he owned the first recorded Harrier hunting pack, marking a important milestone in the breed’s documented history.
2. Penistone Pack: Established by Sir Elias Midhope, this pack existed for over 500 years, showcasing the breed’s enduring legacy.
3. Evolution of Hunting Styles: Initially bred for foot hunts, Harriers later adapted to horseback hunting, influencing their physical characteristics and abilities.

Breed Recognition

The Harrier’s journey to official recognition includes several key milestones:

• 1885: Officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC)
• 1891: Formation of the Association of Masters of Harriers and Beagles (AMHB)
• 1992: Establishment of the Harrier Club of America

Even though its long history, the Harrier remains a rare breed, ranking 165th in popularity among AKC-registered breeds. The Harrier Club of America continues to work towards increasing breed recognition and popularity.

Physical Characteristics

Harriers are medium-sized dogs with a sturdy build and distinctive features. These hounds possess a well-balanced physique that reflects their hunting heritage and adaptability to various terrains.

Size and Weight

Harriers typically stand between 19 and 21 inches at the withers, placing them squarely in the medium-sized dog category. Their weight range is 45 to 65 pounds, though some sources report a broader range of 34 to 67 pounds. This size and weight combination gives Harriers a robust and athletic appearance. Their build is slightly longer from shoulder to rump than from withers to ground, resulting in an off-square profile. This structure contributes to their endurance and agility, making them well-suited for long hunting expeditions or active family life.

Coat and Color

Harriers boast a short, dense, and glossy coat that’s hard to the touch, except around the ears where it’s finer. This weatherproof coat serves a practical purpose, protecting the dog from various environmental conditions during outdoor activities. The breed’s coat comes in several color combinations, with the most common being black, white, and tan; lemon and white; and red and white. Interestingly, the breed standard doesn’t place important importance on exact coat colors or patterns. This variety in coat coloration adds to the Harrier’s visual appeal while maintaining its functional, low-maintenance nature.

Harrier Temperament and Personality

Cheerful and Sweet-Tempered Nature

Harriers are known for their cheerful and sweet-tempered disposition. These dogs exude a friendly demeanor that makes them excellent companions for families and individuals alike. Their sociable nature stems from their history as pack hounds, making them well-suited for households with multiple pets or children.

Social and People-Oriented

We can’t overstate how social and people-oriented Harriers are. These dogs thrive on human company and form strong bonds with their families. Harriers don’t do well when left alone for extended periods, as they can develop separation anxiety. Their pack mentality means they prefer to be part of a group, whether it’s with humans or other dogs.

Playful and Fun-Loving

Harriers have a playful and fun-loving personality that endears them to many. They possess a good sense of humor and enjoy captivating in games and activities with their family members. This playful nature makes them particularly well-suited for households with children, as they’re patient and tolerant of younger family members.

Tolerance and Adaptability

One of the Harrier’s standout traits is their tolerance towards people and other animals. They’re generally easygoing and adapt well to various living situations. Harriers typically get along well with other dogs due to their pack-oriented mentality, making them a great choice for multi-dog households.

Energy Levels and Exercise Needs

Harriers are energetic dogs that require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. Their hunting background means they have high stamina and endurance. Daily walks, playtime, and captivating activities are essential to prevent boredom and ensure a happy, well-balanced dog.

Hunting Instincts

While Harriers have transitioned well into family pets, it’s important to note that they retain strong hunting instincts. Their keen sense of smell and natural tracking abilities can lead to occasional distractions during walks or outdoor activities. Proper training and socialization from an early age can help manage these instincts effectively.

Vocal Tendencies

Like many hound breeds, Harriers can be vocal dogs. They have a distinctive bay or howl that they may use to communicate or express excitement. While this trait can be endearing to some, it’s important to consider if you live in close quarters with neighbors who might be sensitive to noise.

Intelligence and Trainability

Harriers are intelligent dogs with a keen ability to learn. But, their independent nature, inherited from their hunting background, can sometimes make training a challenge. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work best with this breed. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial for developing a well-mannered Harrier.

Affectionate and Loyal

We find that Harriers are affectionate dogs who form strong bonds with their families. They’re loyal companions who enjoy being part of daily activities and family life. Their loving nature extends to children, making them excellent family pets when properly socialized.

Interaction with Other Pets

While Harriers generally get along well with other dogs, caution is advised with non-canine pets. Their strong prey drive, inherited from their hunting background, may cause them to view smaller animals as potential quarry. Early socialization and proper introductions can help mitigate this instinct.

By understanding the Harrier’s temperament and personality traits, potential owners can better prepare for life with this cheerful and energetic breed. Their social nature, playful disposition, and affectionate temperament make them wonderful companions for active families or individuals who can provide the attention and exercise these dogs require.

Care Requirements

Harrier dogs require dedicated care to maintain their health and happiness. Here’s what you need to know about their exercise, grooming, and nutritional needs.

Exercise Needs

Harriers are high-energy dogs that thrive on physical activity. They need at least two hours of exercise daily to stay calm and well-behaved. Long walks, jogging, cycling, and hiking are excellent activities for these active pups. Dog sports like tracking and agility provide mental and physical stimulation, tapping into their natural instincts.

It’s crucial to keep Harriers on a leash or in a securely fenced area during outdoor activities. Their strong scenting instincts can lead them to ignore recall commands and follow interesting smells. A fenced yard allows them to explore safely while providing ample space for play and exercise.

Regular exercise not only keeps Harriers physically fit but also helps prevent boredom-related behaviors like excessive barking or destructive chewing. Captivating them in various activities ensures they remain happy, healthy, and well-adjusted companions.

Grooming

Harriers have a low-maintenance coat that requires minimal grooming. Their short, smooth fur benefits from weekly brushing with a soft-bristle brush or grooming mitt. This routine removes loose fur and distributes natural skin oils, promoting a healthy coat.

Bathing is only necessary two to three times a year or when they get particularly dirty. Over-bathing can strip their coat of essential oils, so it’s best to limit baths to when they’re truly needed.

Regular nail trimming, typically once a month, is essential to prevent discomfort and potential issues with walking. Weekly ear checks and cleaning help prevent infections, especially important for their floppy ears. Daily tooth brushing with dog-exact toothpaste maintains good oral hygiene and prevents dental problems.

Nutrition

Harriers require a balanced diet to support their active lifestyle and maintain optimal health. High-quality dog food, formulated for medium-sized breeds with high energy levels, is ideal. The amount of food should be adjusted based on the dog’s age, weight, and activity level.

Divide their daily food intake into two meals to prevent bloat, a potentially dangerous condition in deep-chested breeds like Harriers. Fresh water should always be available to keep them hydrated, especially after exercise.

Treats can be used for training but should make up no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake. Avoid human foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, and onions. Regular weight checks help ensure they’re maintaining a healthy body condition.

Training and Socialization

Harriers possess intelligence and trainability, but their independent nature and strong prey drive present unique challenges. We’ll explore effective training strategies and socialization techniques to help Harrier owners nurture well-behaved companions.

Training Approach

Harriers respond best to consistent, patient training methods that consider their scent hound temperament. We recommend:

• Positive reinforcement techniques
• Calm, loving, yet firm leadership
• Early obedience training
• Establishing house manners from the start

These approaches help overcome the Harrier’s stubborn streak and foster a cooperative learning environment.

Early Socialization

Socializing Harriers early is crucial for their development. We suggest:

• Exposing puppies to various people, animals, and environments
• Enrolling in puppy classes for structured socialization
• Encouraging positive interactions with children and other pets
• Gradually introducing new experiences to build confidence

Proper socialization helps Harriers become well-adjusted adults, reducing anxiety and behavioral issues.

Off-Leash Training Challenges

Due to their strong prey drive, off-leash training Harriers can be challenging. We advise:

• Using securely fenced areas for training
• Implementing recall training with high-value rewards
• Gradually increasing distractions during training sessions
• Never allowing off-leash time in unsecured areas

These precautions help prevent Harriers from chasing after small animals and ensure their safety.

Addressing Prey Drive

Managing a Harrier’s prey drive is essential for successful training. We recommend:

• Providing appropriate outlets for their hunting instincts
• Using scent work games and activities
• Teaching a solid “leave it” command
• Redirecting their attention to acceptable behaviors

By channeling their natural instincts positively, we can minimize unwanted chasing behaviors.

Consistency and Patience

Training a Harrier requires dedication and perseverance. We emphasize:

• Maintaining consistent rules and expectations
• Avoiding mixed signals or conflicting commands
• Celebrating small victories and progress
• Understanding that training is an ongoing process

Patience and consistency are key to developing a well-trained Harrier companion.

Socialization with Other Pets

Harriers generally get along well with other dogs, but care should be taken with non-canine pets. We suggest:

• Supervised introductions to other household pets
• Teaching appropriate play behaviors
• Providing separate spaces for different species when unsupervised
• Reinforcing positive interactions between pets

Proper socialization helps Harriers coexist peacefully with other animals in the home.

Training for Hunting vs. Companionship

While Harriers were originally bred for hunting, many now serve as family companions. We recommend tailoring training to the dog’s intended role:

• For hunting Harriers: Focus on scent work, tracking, and recall
• For companion Harriers: Emphasize obedience, manners, and social skills
• For both: Incorporate mental stimulation and physical exercise

Adapting training to the Harrier’s purpose ensures they develop the necessary skills for their lifestyle.

By implementing these training and socialization strategies, Harrier owners can cultivate well-mannered, sociable companions while respecting their breed-exact traits and instincts.

Health Concerns

Harrier dogs, like many purebred canines, are prone to exact health issues. We’ll explore the primary health concerns affecting this breed, providing valuable insights for current and prospective Harrier owners.

Canine Hip Dysplasia

Canine hip dysplasia is the most prevalent and important health issue in Harriers. This genetic condition causes instability in the hip joints, leading to:

• Pain and discomfort
• Arthritis development
• Potential leg dysfunction

Rapid weight gain or growth spurts can exacerbate hip dysplasia. Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial for managing this condition.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy, while less common than hip dysplasia, is another health concern for Harriers. This neurological condition is characterized by:

• Recurring seizures
• Potential loss of consciousness
• Muscle spasms or twitching

Early diagnosis and proper management through medication and lifestyle adjustments can help control epilepsy in affected Harriers.

Perianal Fistulas

Perianal fistulas are abnormal connections between the anus and surrounding skin. While not as prevalent as hip dysplasia, they can cause:

• Pain and discomfort
• Infections
• Difficulty defecating

Proper hygiene and regular veterinary care are essential for preventing and managing perianal fistulas in Harriers.

Eye Problems

Although less common, Harriers can be susceptible to various eye issues. These may include:

• Cataracts
• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Glaucoma

Regular eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist can help detect and address these issues early.

Health Concern	Prevalence	Key Symptoms	Management Strategies
Hip Dysplasia	High	Pain, limping, reduced mobility	Weight management, exercise control, joint supplements
Epilepsy	Moderate	Seizures, loss of consciousness	Medication, lifestyle adjustments
Perianal Fistulas	Low to Moderate	Pain, infection, defecation issues	Hygiene, medical treatment, surgery if necessary
Eye Problems	Low	Vision changes, eye discomfort	Regular check-ups, early intervention

By understanding these health concerns, Harrier owners can take proactive steps to ensure their dogs lead healthy, comfortable lives. Regular veterinary check-ups, proper nutrition, and attentive care are key to managing and mitigating these potential health issues in Harriers.

Harriers as Family Pets

Harriers make excellent family pets due to their friendly and outgoing nature. These energetic dogs adapt well to family life, forming strong bonds with their human companions.

With Children

Harriers are affectionate and playful, making them ideal companions for families with children. Their energetic nature allows them to keep up with kids’ activities, providing hours of entertainment and exercise. Harriers are known for their patience and tolerance, which is beneficial when interacting with younger family members.

Key points about Harriers with children:

• Gentle temperament: Harriers are sweet-tempered and reliable around children of all ages.
• Playful nature: Their fun-loving personality makes them excellent playmates for kids.
• Supervision required: As with any dog breed, adult supervision is essential during interactions between Harriers and young children.
• Energy levels: Harriers can match children’s energy, making them great partners for outdoor activities and games.

Families with Harriers should teach children proper handling and respect for dogs to ensure positive interactions and a harmonious household.

With Other Pets

Harriers generally get along well with other pets, especially when socialized from a young age. Their pack mentality makes them adaptable to multi-pet households, but certain considerations are necessary.

Important points about Harriers with other pets:

• Dog-friendly: Harriers typically enjoy the company of other dogs due to their pack instincts.
• Early socialization: Introducing Harriers to other pets early helps foster positive relationships.
• Prey drive: Caution is advised with smaller pets like cats or rabbits due to the Harrier’s strong hunting instincts.
• Supervision: Initial interactions between Harriers and other pets should be closely monitored.
• Space considerations: Ensure each pet has their own space to prevent territorial disputes.

With proper introduction and management, Harriers can coexist peacefully with other pets in the household. But, their strong prey drive may require extra attention when around smaller animals.

Choosing a Harrier

When selecting a Harrier, it’s crucial to consider several factors to ensure you’re bringing home the right companion for your lifestyle. Harriers are energetic, sociable dogs with a rich hunting heritage, making them unique additions to active households.

Physical Characteristics

Harriers are medium-sized dogs with a sturdy build, reflecting their hunting origins. Here’s what to expect:

• Height: 19 to 21 inches at the shoulder
• Weight: 40 to 60 pounds
• Coat: Short, smooth, and dense
• Colors: Various combinations including black and white, tan and white, or tri-color

Their muscular physique and well-balanced proportions contribute to their endurance and agility. Harriers have a bold forehead, a moderate stop, and wide-set ears, giving them an alert and intelligent expression.

Temperament and Personality

Harriers are known for their cheerful and sweet-tempered nature. Key traits include:

• Friendly and outgoing
• Excellent with children
• Tolerant and patient
• Social with other dogs
• High energy levels
• Strong prey drive

Their pack-oriented background makes them highly sociable, thriving in households with multiple pets or active families. But, their hunting instincts may require careful management around smaller animals.

Exercise Requirements

Harriers have high energy levels and require substantial daily exercise:

• At least 2 hours of physical activity per day
• Long walks or jogs
• Opportunities for scent work or tracking
• Playtime in a securely fenced area

Without adequate exercise, Harriers may become bored and develop destructive behaviors. Their stamina and love for outdoor activities make them ideal companions for active individuals or families.

Training Considerations

When choosing a Harrier, be prepared for some training challenges:

• Intelligent but independent-minded
• Require consistent, positive reinforcement
• Early socialization is crucial
• Strong scenting instincts may distract during training
• Benefit from obedience classes and structured training sessions

Patient and persistent training approaches yield the best results with Harriers. Their pack mentality means they respond well to clear leadership and consistent rules.

Living Environment

Consider your living situation when choosing a Harrier:

• Adaptable to various home sizes, but benefit from ample space
• Access to a securely fenced yard is ideal
• Not well-suited for apartment living due to exercise needs
• Require mental stimulation to prevent boredom
• May not be ideal for homes with small pets due to prey drive

Harriers thrive in environments where they can expend their energy and engage their scenting abilities regularly.

Health Considerations

While generally healthy, Harriers are prone to certain health issues:

• Hip dysplasia
• Epilepsy
• Hypothyroidism
• Eye problems (cataracts, glaucoma)

When choosing a Harrier puppy, ensure the breeder provides health clearances for both parents. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet are essential for maintaining your Harrier’s health.

Grooming Needs

Harriers have relatively low grooming requirements:

• Weekly brushing to remove loose hair
• Occasional baths as needed
• Regular nail trimming and dental care
• Ear cleaning to prevent infections

Their short, dense coat is naturally weather-resistant and doesn’t require extensive maintenance.

Time Commitment

Owning a Harrier requires a important time investment:

• Daily exercise sessions
• Training and socialization
• Mental stimulation activities
• Regular veterinary care
• Grooming and maintenance

Harriers form strong bonds with their families and don’t do well when left alone for extended periods. They’re best suited for households where someone is home frequently or can provide regular companionship.

Adoption vs. Purchasing

When choosing a Harrier, consider adoption options:

• Check local shelters and rescue organizations
• Look for breed-exact rescue groups
• Adoptions often include initial veterinary care and vaccinations

If purchasing from a breeder:

• Research reputable breeders thoroughly
• Ensure health clearances are provided
• Visit the breeding facility if possible
• Ask about the puppy’s parents and lineage

Adopting or purchasing from responsible sources helps support ethical breeding practices and gives dogs in need loving homes.

By carefully considering these factors, you’ll be well-equipped to decide if a Harrier is the right choice for your household. Their friendly nature, high energy levels, and hunting background make them unique companions for active families or individuals who can meet their exercise and training needs.

Conclusion

The Harrier dog breed offers a unique blend of hunting prowess and companionship. With their friendly nature and versatile abilities, they can be excellent pets for active families. But, potential owners should carefully consider their high exercise needs and strong prey drive.

We’ve explored the Harrier’s history, characteristics, and care requirements. By understanding these aspects, you’ll be better equipped to decide if this energetic and lovable breed is the right fit for your home. Remember, responsible ownership involves commitment to their physical and emotional well-being for a rewarding relationship.