Harrier Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Harrier is a lean, athletic hound developed to hunt hare in packs, like a larger, longer-legged Beagle. It is rare today, and prized by those who appreciate a friendly, energetic scent hound.

Origins and appearance

The breed was developed in England, possibly as early as the thirteenth century, and used to hunt hare with hunters on foot. It likely descended from Foxhounds, Bassets and Beagles. Harriers are medium-sized and strongly built, with a well-balanced frame, drop ears and a short, dense coat in tricolor or other hound colors.

Temperament

Harriers are friendly, outgoing and good-natured. They are pack dogs and love company, including other dogs and children. They are energetic and follow scents wherever they lead. They can be noisy, with a loud baying voice. They are not suited to being left alone for long.

Exercise

They need substantial exercise: an hour or more of running and walking daily. They enjoy hiking, running and scent work. Use secure fencing, because they are determined escapers. They also need leashes outdoors. See recall training guide.

Training

They are intelligent but independent. Use positive methods and food rewards, with short sessions. Recall is unreliable once a scent is found. Early socialization is easy, since they are friendly.

Coat and grooming

The short coat needs a weekly brush. See short coat dog grooming guide. Clean the ears, trim nails and check for ticks and burrs. They shed moderately.

Health considerations

The breed is generally healthy, but topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Ear infections. See dog ear infections
• Epilepsy and thyroid disease
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Eye conditions

Living with a Harrier

They suit active families with large, fenced yards or rural settings. They do not suit apartments. They need company.

Behavior and daily management

A Harrier needs a lot of exercise and company. Provide long runs and scent games, and keep a routine. Use secure fencing and a leash outdoors. They are happiest with other dogs.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are playful and bouncy. Begin socialization and training, provide chew toys and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food for a medium-large hound, fencing and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Training notes

Harriers learn best through scent games and short, rewarding sessions. Teach a reliable name response and a stop cue in secure areas, and use a long line outside. Expect adolescent selective hearing.

Seasons and travel

Harriers tolerate cold well and need shade in heat. They travel well and are happy in the car when exercised first.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include underexercising, leaving the dog alone and trusting recall near wildlife.

Questions to ask a breeder or rescue

Ask about hip scores, temperament and hunting or working background.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Harrier suits very active families with space who want a friendly, rare hound. It may not suit apartment dwellers or quiet homes. For a smaller hound, see the Basset Hound.

What a day with a Harrier looks like

A Harrier is happiest when the day has a rhythm: a long morning outing, a quiet midday spent near the family, and a second walk or play session in the evening. Pack heritage means the dog wants to be part of a group, so a household with another sociable dog often suits the breed better than a one-dog home with long working hours. Expect a lot of sniffing on every walk, and plan extra time for it, because forcing a hound to hurry past interesting scents is frustrating for both of you. Rural owners often find the breed easier than city owners, but a committed urban family with access to large open spaces can manage well.

Choosing between hound breeds

Anyone comparing hounds should think about size, voice and pace. The Harrier sits between the smaller Beagle and the heavier foxhounds in build and stamina, and its baying carries a long way, which matters for neighbors.

The takeaway

Harriers are friendly, athletic and vocal, and they need exercise, company and secure fencing.