Harrier
Quick Summary
Athletic and friendly hounds ideal for active families. Best suited for experienced owners who can provide space, exercise, and engagement. Excellent with children and other dogs.
Contents
Weight Range
45-60 lbs
♂ Male: 45-60 lbs
♀ Female: 45-60 lbs
Height Range
48-53 inches
♂ Male: 19-21"
♀ Female: 19-21"
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #64
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Hound Group
Originally bred for Developed in medieval England during the 13th century, these skilled pack hunters excelled at tracking hares
Popularity
#189
Less common breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 19"-21" |
| Female Height | 19"-21" |
| Male Weight | 45-60 lbs |
| Female Weight | 45-60 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 2/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($800-$1200), vaccinations, and basic supplies. Monthly expenses cover quality food, preventive medications, and routine vet care. Consider potential medical costs for breed-specific health issues.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Harriers display friendly, outgoing personalities with high energy levels. Their pack-oriented nature makes them excellent family dogs. Natural hunters with strong scenting abilities, they maintain good social behavior with proper training and exercise.
Social Needs
Highly social dogs requiring regular family interaction and companionship. Excel in multi-dog households due to pack mentality. Can become anxious if left alone for extended periods, benefiting from canine companionship.
Breed Overview
Harriers are medium-sized hounds with a muscular build and classic hunting dog appearance. Their short, dense coat comes in a variety of colors including tricolor and red and white. Distinguished by their long, dropped ears, broad muzzle, and powerful legs, Harriers possess remarkable stamina and agility. Their friendly expression and well-proportioned frame reflect their dual heritage as both pack hunters and family companions.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent family companion
- ✓ Good with children
- ✓ Athletic and energetic
- ✓ Social and friendly
- ✓ Low grooming needs
Cons
- ✗ High exercise requirements
- ✗ Strong hunting instincts
- ✗ Can be vocal
- ✗ Needs secure fencing
- ✗ Not apartment suitable
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Friendly, Outgoing, People-Oriented |
| Energy Level | Needs Lots of Activity |
| Trainability | Easy Training |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Occasional |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 1-2 hours of daily exercise including long walks, jogging, or hiking. High-intensity activities like tracking and scent work are essential. Their stamina demands vigorous exercise sessions with mental stimulation through hunting-style games.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 2-3 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Active adults need protein-rich diets. Monitor portion sizes to prevent weight gain, especially if exercise is limited. Consider supplements for joint health.
Feed 2-3 cups of high-quality dry dog food daily, divided into two meals. Adjust portions based on activity level and age. Include protein-rich foods to support muscle maintenance. Consider supplements for joint health in active adults.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Best suited for homes with large, fenced yards. Thrives in suburban or rural settings where they can run freely. Adapts well to various climates but needs indoor access during extreme weather.
Requires substantial outdoor space with secure fencing at least 6 feet high. Best suited for homes with large yards. Can adapt to suburban living with adequate exercise. Not recommended for apartment or small space living.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Pack hunting hounds emerged in medieval England as a smaller alternative to the English Foxhound. Carefully bred for stamina and scenting ability, they served foot hunters tracking hares across varied terrain. Their development focused on creating an ideal size for hunters following on foot.
Historical Purpose
Developed in medieval England during the 13th century, these skilled pack hunters excelled at tracking hares. Their size made them ideal for hunters following on foot rather than horseback.
Fun Fact
Harriers were specifically bred to hunt hares at a pace that allowed hunters to follow on foot rather than horseback.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Requires secure fencing due to strong hunting instincts. Weekly grooming maintains coat health. Daily exercise essential for physical and mental well-being.