Harrier Dog Breed Profile: Essential Facts

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Physical Characteristics of the Harrier Dogs

The Harrier, a smaller version of the English Foxhound, was developed in England primarily for hunting hares. This hard-working breed is highly adaptable, excelling on various terrains with remarkable stamina.

Key physical traits of the Harrier dogs include:

• Nose: Black
• Ears: Medium-sized, wide, long, and either hazel or brown
• Tail: High-set
• Coat: Short, fine, and typically multicolored, featuring shades of white, red, lemon, or tan

This breed’s athletic build and keen sense of smell make it an excellent companion for hunters and active owners alike.

The Origin and History of the Harrier Dogs

The history of the Harrier breed remains debated. While hunting hares dates back to 400 BC, no direct evidence confirms the breed’s existence at that time.

Key milestones in the Harrier’s history:

• 1260 AD (England): The first recorded Harrier pack, the Penistone Harriers, was owned by Sir Elias de Midhope.
• Popularity: The breed gained recognition for its sharp sense of smell, endurance, and steady hunting pace, making it easier for hunters to follow on foot.
• Foxhound Ancestry: It is believed that Harriers were bred down in size from the foxhound, but conclusive proof is lacking.
• Size Comparison: The Harrier is smaller than a foxhound but larger than a Beagle in stature.
• United States Presence: Harriers have been noted in colonial America and were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885.

The Harrier Dog’s Purpose and Abilities

Originally bred for hare hunting, Harriers have expanded their roles to include companionship and canine sports such as:

• Dog Conformation Shows: Evaluating breed standards based on structure, movement, and temperament.
• Tracking and Conservation Work: Some Harriers contribute to wildlife conservation by tracking endangered species.
• Agility Competitions: The breed’s athletic build and high energy levels make it a strong competitor in agility trials.

The Harrier remains a versatile and hardworking breed, excelling both in the field and as a loyal family companion.

Understanding the Harrier’s Temperament

Harriers are natural scent hounds, bred to track scents over long distances. Their strong hunting instincts and pack mentality shape their behavior, making them highly social dogs that thrive on companionship.

Harriers and Socialization

• They are accustomed to working in packs and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
• If you’re away at work all day, having two Harriers can help prevent loneliness and destructive behavior. Learn how to keep your dog entertained while at work to avoid stress.
• Harriers love being around people and should not be left as outside-only dogs—they need human interaction and companionship.

Harrier Dogs and Their Environment

• As scent hounds, they tend to follow their noses, so a secure fenced yard is essential to prevent wandering.
• Harriers like to dig, so fences should be reinforced where they meet the ground with chicken wire or other materials. You can also train your dog to dig in a designated area like a sandbox.

Intelligence and Training

• Harriers are intelligent and quick learners, making them highly trainable with consistency and positive reinforcement.
• They have a strong voice and are known for their distinctive howl. While some are more vocal than others, they can be trained to be quiet when needed.

Compatibility with Families and Other Pets

• Harriers generally get along well with children and other dogs due to their social nature.
• However, because of their strong prey drive, they should always be supervised around non-canine animals like cats or small pets.
• Their ability to learn commands is impressive—studies show that dogs can recognize hundreds of words. Learn how many words dogs can understand.

With the right training, environment, and socialization, the Harrier makes a loyal, affectionate, and energetic companion for active families.

Is the Harrier the Right Dog for You?

Harrier dogs are energetic scent hounds that require an active lifestyle. If you’re looking for a lap dog or a breed that only needs short daily walks, this is not the right choice.

Ideal Owners for a Harrier

• Best suited for joggers, hikers, or active individuals who can commit to long, brisk walks.
• Requires a leash or enclosed area at all times to prevent them from following scents and wandering off.
• Great for active families and gets along well with children.

Things to Consider Before Getting a Harrier

• Not an outside-only dog – Harriers need companionship and can experience separation anxiety if left alone too long.
• Supervision needed around cats or other small pets due to their hunting instincts.
• Minimal grooming needs and low risk of genetic health issues, making them relatively easy to care for.

If you can provide the exercise, structure, and companionship a Harrier needs, this breed can be a wonderful, affectionate, and energetic addition to your home.

Exercise Needs

HIGH: Harrier dogs are high-energy scent hounds with strong hunting instincts, requiring consistent daily exercise to stay healthy and well-behaved. Like other working dogs, they thrive when given a job to do.

Daily Exercise Requirements

• Rigorous walks or jogging are essential to help Harriers burn off excess energy.
• They should always be kept on a leash or inside a secured perimeter when outdoors, as their powerful noses can lead them astray. Even a well-trained Harrier may ignore recall commands in favor of tracking a scent. Learn how to train a dog in recall.

Suitability for Different Living Environments

• Harriers are moderately active indoors, but this alone does not meet their exercise needs.
• They are not ideal for apartment living unless their owners are committed to providing daily jogging or hiking sessions to compensate for their high energy levels.

Extreme Stamina and Alternative Exercise Solutions

• When hunting, Harrier hounds can walk and run between 20 to 40 miles, making it difficult for a human to match their endurance.
• Some creative owners have come up with unique ways to exercise their Harriers—one owner in upstate New York used a golf cart to keep up with his dog while she ran on a lead.

A well-exercised Harrier dog is a happier, healthier, and better-behaved companion. Without sufficient physical and mental stimulation, they may develop destructive behaviors due to pent-up energy.

Grooming Needs

LOW: Harriers have a short, low-maintenance coat, making grooming relatively easy. However, regular care is essential to keep them healthy and comfortable.

Coat and Skin Care

• Weekly brushing helps remove dead hair and keeps the coat in good condition.
• Working Harriers should have their paws and ears checked regularly, especially after hunts or walks in wooded areas, to detect any debris or injuries.

Nail and Dental Maintenance

• Despite their active lifestyle, Harrier nails may not wear down naturally and should be trimmed as needed. Explore whether Pedipaws works well for at-home nail care.
• Regular teeth brushing is recommended to maintain oral hygiene and prevent dental diseases. Learn why dental care is crucial for pets.

With minimal grooming needs, the Harrier is a low-maintenance but active breed that benefits from routine care and attention.

Common Health Problems

LOW: Harriers are generally healthy and hardy dogs, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain genetic health conditions.

Some of the most common health issues in Harriers include:

• Hip Dysplasia: A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly into the socket, potentially leading to arthritis over time.
• Hypothyroidism: A thyroid disorder that can cause weight gain, lethargy, and coat issues.
• Arthritis: As Harriers age, they may develop joint pain and stiffness, affecting their mobility.
• Eye Problems: While rare in this breed, regular annual eye exams through the Canine Eye Registration Foundation are recommended to catch any potential issues early.

Weight Management and Veterinary Care

• Harriers love to eat and will consume as much food as they are given. Portion control is essential to prevent obesity.
• If you’re unsure about feeding guidelines, consult your veterinarian for a customized diet plan based on your dog’s age, weight, and activity level.
• Annual vet visits are crucial to monitor weight, check for eye problems, and ensure overall health.

By staying proactive with diet, exercise, and routine veterinary care, Harriers can live long, active, and healthy lives.

Adopt, Don’t Shop

Harriers are not as common in the United States as in England, so finding one here can be a challenge. Please check our adoptable dog search first to see if one is available. If you’re contacting breeders, be aware of puppy mill warning signs and ask for proof of medical testing on the parents for the common health problems, especially eye testing. Although eye problems are not common in the breed, testing is highly recommended.

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Frequently Asked Questions?

Additional Resources

• American Kennel Club’s Harrier Page
• Harrier Club of America