| Description: This breed is somewhat more playful and outgoing than the Foxhound, but not as much as the Beagle. Cheerful, sweet-tempered, and tolerant, it is excellent with children. This pack dog is good with other dogs, but should be supervised with non-canine pets -- unless it is raised with them as a puppy. It prefers life in a pack with people, dogs, or both. This active dog likes to go exploring, sniffing and trailing, so be sure to keep it on a leash or in a safe enclosed area. Some Harriers like to bay.
Height: 19 - 22 inches
Weight: 48 - 60 lbs.
Colors: Usually black, tan and white, but all hound colors acceptable.
Coat: Short and hard.
Temperament: Active, friendly, stubborn
With Children: Yes, mature children as long as no rough housing.
With Pets: Good with other dogs, supervise with cats.
Watch-dog: High
Guard-dog: Low, loves every person so much that he views them all as an old friend they he has not met yet.
Care and Training: Minimal coat care is required. A routine rubdown with a harsh cloth and massage will release dead hairs. Keep ears clean and nails trimmed. Needs regular exercise or he may become fat and lazy. Enjoys the outdoors, but should not be left alone as he is inclined to wander if he is free. Obedience training is recommended.
Learning Rate: High, Obedience - Low, Problem Solving - High, Trainability - may be stubborn and independent.
Activity: High
Living Environment: An owner of a Harrier should be an active person, the elderly or disabled may have trouble with his energy level. Best suited for a rural environment, but will do well in a house with a fenced yard.
Health Issues: One of the healthiest breeds. Rare cases of hip dysplasia and epilepsy.
Life Span: 12 - 14 Years
Litter Size: 7 - 8
Country of Origin: Great Britain
History: The word Harrier means "hound" in Norman-Saxon and it is speculated that he may have traveled to England with the Normans . During the 17th and 18th century he was considered the poor man's alternative to the upper class practice of hunting with packs of foxhounds. Bred specifically for hunting of hares.
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