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Harrier

The Harrier is an English pack hound bred to hunt hare — the name comes from the quarry — and it sits between the Beagle and the Foxhound in size.

It is one of the rarest breeds registered with the major kennel clubs, with only a handful of litters a year.

It stands 48 to 53 centimetres, weighs 20 to 27 kilograms and lives twelve to fifteen years, with a short hard coat, usually tricolour. It is a pack animal with enormous stamina, a loud musical voice and a nose that takes priority over everything. Temperament at home is cheerful, tolerant and good with children, which is exactly why households take one on and then find they cannot meet its needs.

Origin
England; a pack hound bred to hunt hare
Size
48–53 cm; 20–27 kg
Lifespan
12–15 years
Coat
Short and hard, usually tricolour
Status
One of the rarest breeds registered with major kennel clubs
Exercise
Very high; a pack hound with real stamina

Related: Beagle

2 harrier photos of 1 dog, newest first

Harrier feed
  • Pierogi, a harrier

    Pierogi

    Pierogi was promoted to photographer arranging a portrait of one potato; unfortunately, a model sailboat becomes stranded in a teacup.

    FrostyOtter · 1 week ago

Living with a harrier

The exercise requirement is the honest obstacle. A Harrier needs an hour or more of hard running daily, and a lead walk will not do it. Under-exercised they become destructive and extremely vocal.

They are pack animals and do badly alone all day; another dog helps considerably.

The voice is loud and used freely.

Once on a scent, recall is gone. Secure fencing and long lines.

Grooming is trivial. Check the drop ears weekly, keep the dog lean, and ask for hip scores. They are sociable and tolerant, which makes them lovely company when properly exercised.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. Individual dogs vary, and anything about a specific animal is a question for a vet who has seen it.

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