Harrier Dog Breed Information and Pictures - All About Dogs

Harrier

Description:

The Harrier is a special breed of hound, which was developed in England in the 13th century. This breed was primarily used for hunting hare. Later on, Harriers were also used in fox and rabbit hunting ( the old books they referred to as “Foxhound poor”). Moreover, in the 17th and the 18th century, aristocrats who praised the ability of these dogs used them to hunt in the mountains. Even though the Harrier has a long and glorious history, it is still very uncommon in the rest of the world, particularly in the United States. The Harrier was officially recognized by the American Kannel Club in 1885.

Height: 19-21 inches  Weight: 40-65 pounds  Lifespan: 12-15 years

Characteristics:

The Harrier dog is very similar to the English Foxhound, only smaller. The Harrier is an independent thinker. He is inquisitive and persistent, always highly focused on what they are doing. Dogs of this breed have an athletic physique and excellent stamina, they are medium in size and have hanging ears. Comparable Breed: The American Foxhound and Beagle.

Character:

The Harrier is a tolerant and good-natured dog, with a cheerful character. Since this dog breed is sociable, the Harrier does very well with other dogs in the house. Still, representatives of this breed are not very tolerant of other pets within the house. At the same time, Harriers are great with children. Keep in mind that the Harrier needs constant interaction with humans, so be sure not to neglect your pet. If neglected, this breed will feel stressful and lonely. Also, it will howl endlessly and spoil the surrounding objects. Harriers are pretty cold with strangers.

Coat / Care:

Harriers have a shiny, hard, dense and short fur. Compared to the rest of the body, ears are decorated with more soft and subtle hair. The Harrier is usually red and white, or tricolored (black, tan and white), but they come in a variety of colors. Shedding is medium in intensity, so Harriers require minimal care. Regular brushing is enough to minimize the hair loss. Make sure to bathe your dog only when necessary. On the other hand, the dog’s ears and nails require constant checking and thorough cleaning. Also, trim the nails regularly.

Health Problems:

The Harrier is generally healthy dog breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to Cataract, Hypothyroidism and Canine Hip Dysplasia. The Harrier dog has a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.

Weight / Height:

The male Harrier dog breed’s height is around 19 – 21 inches and weighs around 45 and 65 pounds. Female Harrier dogs can reach a size from 19 – 21 inches and weighs between 40 and 60 pounds.

Training:

Though this breed tends to be quite moody and somewhat stubborn, the Harrier is very smart and obedient. Harriers are social by nature, but they require further socialization nonetheless. Training should be conducted on the basis of fairness, firmness and consistency. The Harrier stand out in obedience, agility and tracking trace.

Activity:

Do not keep this dog in a city apartment. Hence, the Harrier needs a large amount of physical activity and mental stimulation. Also, this breed should be exposed to early socialization with other dogs in order to avoid possible problems. And therefore, Harriers thrive best in a farm, where they will have a lot of space to walk in freedom.

Harrier Dog

Quick Information

Other Names:Heirer, Harehound
Origin:United Kingdom
Average size: Medium to Large Dog Breed     
Color:Brown, Black and Tan, Red, Grey, White
Energy Level:Active dog breed
Shedding:Seasonal
Grooming:Occasional
Trainability:This dog is easy to train
Barking Level:Likes To Be Vocal
Intelligence:Intelligent and clever dog
Personality:Outgoing, People-Oriented, Friendly
Hypoallergenic:No
AKC Dog Ranking:186th Most popular dog breed
Good family dog:Yes, Very good with socialization
Good with other dogs:Yes, good with socialization
Good with children:Yes – but socialization is essential
Good with strangers:Yes – Very good with socialization
Good apartment dog:Low – this is not an apartment dog

Photo Credit: Lawrence OP/Flickr

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