Harrier
The Harrier is a purebred hunting hound that has an impressive sense of smell, endurance, and agility, making it an excellent tracker in the field.
Harrier Breed overview
The Harrier is a versatile dog bred for hunting but also makes for a wonderful family pet who enjoys physical activities to remain happy and healthy. Harriers are known for their excellent temperament with children and other dogs but also have the natural instinct to track and chase small game. It's not difficult to keep them clean as they have a short and low-maintenance coat, but they do shed moderately. Harriers need a lot of exercise and attention, which may be challenging for novice owners or those living in apartments. They require plenty of mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy, and consistent positive reinforcement training can help curb any stubbornness tendencies. Regular interactions with the vet are important to ensure the Harrier's overall health and prevention of any health-related illnesses. Owners of Harriers should be aware of their dog's excellent sense of smell and wanderlust, ensuring they are well-supervised or securely fenced in. Overall, the Harrier is an adaptable, loyal breed and an excellent choice for energetic families who want to add a member to their pack.
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What To Expect When Caring For a Harrier
Health
Harriers are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 12-14 years, but they may be prone to certain health issues like hip dysplasia, ear infections, and glaucoma. Adequate exercise, nutrition, and regular checkups with a veterinarian can help avoid or manage any potential health problems. Harriers may also be sensitive to some medications. If you suspect that your Harrier is ill or is experiencing any unusual symptoms, you should contact a veterinarian right away.
Grooming
Harriers require minimal grooming. They have a short, dense coat that sheds moderately and only needs to be brushed once a week to maintain its shine and keep shedding under control. However, they may require more frequent brushing during seasonal shedding periods. Nails must be regularly trimmed, and ears should be checked frequently for any signs of infections as they have long, floppy ears.
Nutrition
Proper nutrition is essential for Harrier's optimal health. A healthy diet rich in proteins, carbohydrates, fibers, and other nutrients is vital to meet their daily energy requirements. However, their diet should be planned according to their age, size, activity level, and health conditions, if any. Harriers generally tend to overeat, which can lead to obesity. Thus, feeding them the appropriate portions of healthy food and avoiding high-calorie treats is important to prevent weight gain.
Training
Harriers are eager to please their owners and are generally easy to train with positive reinforcement techniques. They respond well to praise, encouragement, and rewards, like treats and toys. However, they may be stubborn at times, so consistent training, socialization, and patience are essential. They excel in tracking, agility, and obedience competitions when trained well.
Exercise
Harriers need plenty of exercise to keep them healthy and happy. They are a high-energy breed that requires daily walks, runs, or other forms of physical activity to keep them stimulated and engaged. They also enjoy taking long walks or hikes with their human family, as well as participating in games like flyball, frisbee, and tracking. They thrive in a large, fenced-in yard where they can run freely and play with other dogs.
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Harrier Traits & Characteristics
The Harrier's head is large and wide. Their eyes are large and set apart at an angle, giving them a pleasant expression, and their ears are long and triangular-shaped with a velvety texture. They have a straight, well-muscled back with a broad chest and strong shoulders; short, straight legs with round, firm feet; and a short, glossy coat that is weather-resistant to better withstand the harsh elements. They have a well-proportioned and athletic-looking physique that helps them excel in various fields, from hunting to agility competitions.
The breed has a noble history, believed to be developed in medieval England as a hunting hound of superior stamina, which was ideal for assisting hunters in chasing down small prey. As they are excellent trackers, they also served as search and rescue dogs in times of war. Over the centuries, the breed became popular with fox hunters and is still used for various tracking-related pursuits in the U.K. and America alike. The breed was officially recognized by the AKC in 1885.
Affection
The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.
The Harrier is an affectionate breed, but not overly clingy. They enjoy spending time with their human family, but are also content to entertain themselves.
Children
How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.
Harriers are known for their excellent temperament around children. They are playful, gentle, and tolerant, making them great playmates for kids.
Dogs
The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.
Harriers are sociable dogs and generally get along with other dogs. Early socialization can help ensure they have good relationships with other canines.
Strangers
The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.
Harriers can be reserved around strangers, but early socialization can help them become more comfortable around new people.
Playfulness
The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.
Harriers are playful dogs and enjoy having fun with their family. They have a lot of energy to burn and need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Alertness
The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs
Harriers are alert dogs, and their keen sense of smell makes them excellent hunting companions. They are always ready to investigate anything new in their environment.
Adaptability
The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.
Harriers are adaptable dogs that can do well in a variety of environments. However, they need plenty of exercise so they can be best suited for families with an active lifestyle.
Shedding
The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.
The Harrier has a short, dense coat that sheds moderately. Weekly brushing can help minimize shedding and keep their coat healthy.
Grooming
The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.
Harriers have a low maintenance coat, and regular brushing and occasional baths are all that is needed to keep them clean and healthy.
Drooling
The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.
Harriers are not known for excessive drooling with a very dry mouth. They are a relatively clean breed overall.
Size
The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.
Harriers are medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 45 and 65 pounds and standing between 19 and 21 inches tall at the shoulder.
Energy
The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.
Harriers have a lot of energy and require regular exercise to maintain their health and happiness. They need plenty of playtime and long walks or runs to stay in shape.
Exercise
The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Harriers are a high energy breed and are happiest when they can engage in plenty of physical activities. Long walks, jogs, hikes, and hunting activities can help keep them happy and healthy.
Working
The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.
Harriers were originally bred as hunting dogs and they still have a strong instinct for tracking down prey. They can perform well in activities such as tracking, scent work, and agility.
Hunting
The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.
Harriers are highly skilled hunting dogs that excel at tracking and chasing small game such as rabbits and hares. Owners who live in rural or suburban areas may need to use a leash or supervise outside activities in order to prevent Harriers from wandering to follow a scent.
Vigor
The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.
Harriers are highly energetic and strong dogs that have an inexhaustible drive to engage in physical activity. Their tireless spirit makes them great companions for active owners who love to exercise outdoors.
Health
The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.
Harriers are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to a few health issues such as hip dysplasia, ear infections, and eye conditions. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian are important.
Obesity
The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.
Harriers are energetic dogs that require plenty of exercise to maintain a healthy weight. Owners should monitor their food intake and provide plenty of opportunities for exercise and play.
Cold
The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.
Harriers have a short coat that provides minimal protection against the cold. They are best suited to mild or moderate climates and may need a coat or sweater during cold weather.
Heat
The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.
Harriers can tolerate moderately hot weather, but they need plenty of water and shade to stay cool. They are not well-suited to extreme heat or humidity.
Apartment
The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.
Harriers are active and energetic dogs that ideally require a house with a yard where they can run, play and chase any critter that crosses their path. Living in an apartment might not be the ideal environment for them.
Wanderlust
The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.
Harriers have a strong hunting instinct and tendency to wander if they catch a scent. They should always be kept on a leash or in a securely fenced area to prevent wandering.
Sensitivity
The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.
Harriers are sensitive dogs that can become stressed or anxious if they feel they are being punished or scolded. They respond best to positive reinforcement training with treats and praise.
Separation
The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.
Harriers can become anxious or destructive if they are left alone for long periods. They do best with plenty of company and attention, so a dog sitter or daycare may be necessary.
Barking
The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.
Harriers may bark or howl occasionally, but they are not known for excessive barking. They may bark more when they are bored or lonely.
Mental
The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.
Harriers are intelligent dogs that require mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Puzzle games, obedience training, and scent tracking exercises can help keep their minds sharp.
Novice_owners
Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.
Harriers are a good choice for novice owners because they are friendly, easy to train, and generally healthy. However, they do require a lot of exercise and attention, which may be challenging for some first-time dog owners.
Trainability
The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.
Harriers are intelligent and eager to please, but they can also have a stubborn streak. Consistent positive reinforcement training with treats and praise can work well with them.
Affection
The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.
The Harrier is an affectionate breed, but not overly clingy. They enjoy spending time with their human family, but are also content to entertain themselves.
Children
How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.
Harriers are known for their excellent temperament around children. They are playful, gentle, and tolerant, making them great playmates for kids.
Dogs
The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.
Harriers are sociable dogs and generally get along with other dogs. Early socialization can help ensure they have good relationships with other canines.
Strangers
The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.
Harriers can be reserved around strangers, but early socialization can help them become more comfortable around new people.
Playfulness
The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.
Harriers are playful dogs and enjoy having fun with their family. They have a lot of energy to burn and need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Alertness
The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs
Harriers are alert dogs, and their keen sense of smell makes them excellent hunting companions. They are always ready to investigate anything new in their environment.
Adaptability
The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.
Harriers are adaptable dogs that can do well in a variety of environments. However, they need plenty of exercise so they can be best suited for families with an active lifestyle.
Shedding
The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.
The Harrier has a short, dense coat that sheds moderately. Weekly brushing can help minimize shedding and keep their coat healthy.
Grooming
The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.
Harriers have a low maintenance coat, and regular brushing and occasional baths are all that is needed to keep them clean and healthy.
Drooling
The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.
Harriers are not known for excessive drooling with a very dry mouth. They are a relatively clean breed overall.
Size
The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.
Harriers are medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 45 and 65 pounds and standing between 19 and 21 inches tall at the shoulder.
Energy
The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.
Harriers have a lot of energy and require regular exercise to maintain their health and happiness. They need plenty of playtime and long walks or runs to stay in shape.
Exercise
The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Harriers are a high energy breed and are happiest when they can engage in plenty of physical activities. Long walks, jogs, hikes, and hunting activities can help keep them happy and healthy.
Working
The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.
Harriers were originally bred as hunting dogs and they still have a strong instinct for tracking down prey. They can perform well in activities such as tracking, scent work, and agility.
Hunting
The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.
Harriers are highly skilled hunting dogs that excel at tracking and chasing small game such as rabbits and hares. Owners who live in rural or suburban areas may need to use a leash or supervise outside activities in order to prevent Harriers from wandering to follow a scent.
Vigor
The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.
Harriers are highly energetic and strong dogs that have an inexhaustible drive to engage in physical activity. Their tireless spirit makes them great companions for active owners who love to exercise outdoors.
Health
The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.
Harriers are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to a few health issues such as hip dysplasia, ear infections, and eye conditions. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian are important.
Obesity
The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.
Harriers are energetic dogs that require plenty of exercise to maintain a healthy weight. Owners should monitor their food intake and provide plenty of opportunities for exercise and play.
Cold
The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.
Harriers have a short coat that provides minimal protection against the cold. They are best suited to mild or moderate climates and may need a coat or sweater during cold weather.
Heat
The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.
Harriers can tolerate moderately hot weather, but they need plenty of water and shade to stay cool. They are not well-suited to extreme heat or humidity.
Apartment
The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.
Harriers are active and energetic dogs that ideally require a house with a yard where they can run, play and chase any critter that crosses their path. Living in an apartment might not be the ideal environment for them.
Wanderlust
The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.
Harriers have a strong hunting instinct and tendency to wander if they catch a scent. They should always be kept on a leash or in a securely fenced area to prevent wandering.
Sensitivity
The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.
Harriers are sensitive dogs that can become stressed or anxious if they feel they are being punished or scolded. They respond best to positive reinforcement training with treats and praise.
Separation
The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.
Harriers can become anxious or destructive if they are left alone for long periods. They do best with plenty of company and attention, so a dog sitter or daycare may be necessary.
Barking
The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.
Harriers may bark or howl occasionally, but they are not known for excessive barking. They may bark more when they are bored or lonely.
Mental
The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.
Harriers are intelligent dogs that require mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Puzzle games, obedience training, and scent tracking exercises can help keep their minds sharp.
Novice_owners
Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.
Harriers are a good choice for novice owners because they are friendly, easy to train, and generally healthy. However, they do require a lot of exercise and attention, which may be challenging for some first-time dog owners.
Trainability
The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.
Harriers are intelligent and eager to please, but they can also have a stubborn streak. Consistent positive reinforcement training with treats and praise can work well with them.
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History of the Harrier
The breed dates back to the 13th century in England and was often used in packs for hunting hares and rabbits, hence the name, which means 'hound of the hare.' It is believed that its ancestors are the larger Foxhound and the smaller Beagle, both of which were used for chasing. The development of the Harrier breed was an attempt to mix the best qualities of both these breeds. Harriers are often still used for hunting today, particularly in the UK, where they are also bred for show and as companions.
Over time, the breed has gained in popularity and is now recognized by many breed associations around the world. Despite this, it remains relatively rare outside of the UK and is not typically kept as a pet in most other parts of the world.
Harrier Puppies
Harrier puppies are intelligent and curious, as well as active and playful. They require socialization and training from a young age to ensure they develop into well-behaved adult dogs. Puppies need proper nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary checkups to grow healthy and happy. They have an amazing sense of smell and love to explore new things, so it's important to keep them engaged and occupied with various toys and puzzles to keep them mentally stimulated.