Harrier (Dog Breed) - A Comprehensive Guide to Ownership and Lifestyle

The Harrier is a fantastic breed for active families or individuals who love the outdoors. They were originally bred for hunting small game.

These dogs are medium-sized, with adults typically weighing between 45-60 pounds. Their short coats require minimal grooming.

As a relatively quiet breed, Harriers are a great choice for apartment dwellers. They do require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

The Harrier breed has a rich history dating back to the middle ages when the Normans invaded England in 1066. They brought dogs that resembled the Harrier and were used to hunt hares.

The first documented pack of Harriers in England was found in 1260, named the Penistone pack, and their bloodlines continued for at least half a millennium. This pack was a significant milestone in the breed's history.

The Harrier is one of the oldest breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club, officially recognized in 1885.

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The Harrier breed has a rich history dating back to the mid-1200s when they were developed in England for hunting hares.

The first documented pack of Harriers in England was found in 1260, specifically the Penistone pack, whose bloodlines continued for at least half a millennium.

The Harrier was brought over to England by the Normans in 1066, and it's believed that the dogs used to hunt hares were similar to the Harrier breed we know today.

The Harrier is one of the oldest breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club, officially recognized in 1885.

The Harrier Club of America was founded in 1992, working towards breed recognition and gaining popularity for this rare breed.

The Harrier is smaller than a Foxhound but larger than a Beagle, and it's still used in the UK and US to hunt hare.

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The Harrier is a friendly breed that's perfect for families. They're known for their affectionate nature and get along well with children.

Harriers are excellent family companions because they're patient and gentle. They make great playmates for kids and are always up for an adventure.

Their friendly disposition is just one reason why Harriers are a popular choice for families.

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The Harrier is a sturdy and powerful breed, standing between 19 and 21 inches tall and weighing between 45 and 65 pounds. They have a broad, slightly domed skull and a broad forehead, with a moderate stop between the skull and the muzzle.

Their eyes are medium-sized, either brown or hazel in color, and set well apart, giving them a friendly and alert expression. The ears are V-shaped and rounded at the tip, hanging down and set close to the head.

The Harrier's muzzle is of good length, blending smoothly into the skull with a moderate stop. Their nose is broad, with well-opened nostrils, and their bite is level or scissors, with the upper incisors overlapping the lower incisors.

The Harrier's physical characteristics are truly impressive. They stand between 19 and 21 inches tall at the shoulder.

Their short, dense coat is harsh to the touch and glossy in appearance, which helps them move through rough terrain without being hindered. This coat texture is essential for their hunting style.

A Harrier's weight typically ranges from 45 to 65 pounds, making them a sturdy and powerful breed. Their muscular build is perfect for hunting.

Their ears are pendant and rounded at the tip, hanging down and set close to the head. The ears are also finer in texture than the rest of their coat.

The Harrier's skull is broad, with a slight dome and a broad forehead. Their eyes are medium-sized and either brown or hazel in color, exuding an intelligent and gentle expression.

Here are the common colors and weight ranges for Harriers:

Their muzzle is of good length and blends smoothly into the skull with a moderate stop. The nose is broad, with well-opened nostrils, and its color complements the coat's color.

A Harrier's tail is medium-length, carried high, but not curled over the back. The tail also has a slight thickening or brush of hair on the underside.

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If you're looking for breeds similar in size to the Harrier, you've got a few options. The Aidi breed is essentially the same size as the Harrier, with a 100% similarity in terms of physical characteristics.

The French Spaniel, Husker, Polish Hunting, and Portuguese Podengo breeds are all very close in size to the Harrier, with a similarity of around 98%.

If you're considering one of these breeds, it's worth noting that they all have similar energy levels and exercise needs to the Harrier. This means you'll need to be prepared to provide plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

Here are some breeds that are similarly sized to the Harrier:

Taking care of a Harrier is relatively easy, thanks to their short, dense coat that requires only weekly brushing. A rubber curry brush or hound mitt will do the trick, distributing skin oils and removing dead hairs.

To keep your Harrier looking and smelling their best, they should be bathed two to three times a year, with as-needed baths in between. Nail clippers or a nail grinder can be used to keep their nails trimmed every two to three weeks.

Their typical hound ears need regular cleaning and drying to prevent infection. Cleaning their ears with a gentle ear-cleaning solution specifically formulated for dogs is essential. Regular nail trims with a grinder or clipper will also help prevent overgrowth.

To promote oral hygiene, brush your Harrier's teeth regularly with a veterinarian-approved toothpaste, and consider professional deep-cleanings as recommended by your veterinarian. Yummy dental chews can also double as a treat and breath freshener.

A balanced diet specifically designed for puppies is crucial for Harrier puppies, with high-quality puppy formula supporting rapid growth and development. Adult Harriers require a diet rich in protein, with the right balance of fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

Here's a quick rundown of Harrier grooming needs:

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial during the Harrier's puppy stage, monitoring growth, ensuring vaccinations are up-to-date, and addressing potential health concerns early on.

The Harrier is a cheerful and friendly breed that thrives on social interaction. They love people and are excellent with children, making them an ideal family companion.

They are pack dogs and prefer to be around others, whether it's people, dogs, or both. In fact, they can get anxious if left alone for too long, so it's essential to provide them with regular companionship.

Harriers are highly energetic and have a strong prey drive, which means they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They also have a strong instinct to follow a scent, so securely fenced yards are a must.

Harriers are generally good with other pets, but it's essential to socialize them well, especially if you have non-canine pets in the household. With proper training and socialization, they can make excellent companions for active families.

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Harriers are extremely social dogs that thrive in the company of people and other animals. They're perfect for active individuals and families with young children.

Their friendly and outgoing nature makes them a delightful companion, but they can be stubborn at times. Consistent training and early socialization are essential to ensure they listen and behave.

Harriers have a moderate level of sensitivity and respond well to positive reinforcement and gentle guidance. They won't tolerate harsh corrections or loud confrontations, so it's essential to use gentle and patient training methods.

These dogs need regular companionship and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. They're best suited for families with flexible schedules or those who can spend plenty of time with them.

Harriers are excellent with children and other pets, making them an ideal family dog. However, they should be supervised when interacting with non-canine pets to ensure a harmonious household.

Their high energy levels and strong prey drive mean they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. A securely fenced yard and regular walks on a leash are a must.

Overall, Harriers are a wonderful breed for families and active individuals who can provide them with the attention and exercise they need.

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The Harrier is an exceptional hunting dog, historically used for hunting hare due to their keen sense of smell and great stamina in the field. They've also been known to adapt to hunting other game, showcasing their versatility as hunters in various situations and terrain.

Harriers are naturally driven to hunt, with a strong instinct to follow scents and track prey. This makes them well-suited for activities like tracking and scent work, where they can use their skills to identify specific scents or follow trails.

Their adaptability and energy levels also make them suitable for various dog sports, including agility, rally obedience, lure coursing, and barn hunt. These activities provide physical exercise and mental stimulation, which are essential for a Harrier's well-being.

Here are some dog sports that are a great fit for a Harrier:

Overall, the Harrier's natural hunting instincts and abilities make them an excellent choice for those who enjoy hunting and outdoor activities with their dog.