Harrier
🧠 Temperament & character
The Harrier is active, enduring and friendly, a decidedly sociable pack dog. On the hunt he shows a strong, far-carrying trail cry and great stamina. He gets along well with other dogs and is usually agreeable towards people. His pronounced hunting drive and his high need for exercise, however, determine his everyday life.
📜 Origin & history
The Harrier has its roots in England, where for centuries it was kept as a pack hunting dog for hunting hares on foot and on horseback. Its name derives from the English word for hare, which it traditionally pursued. Although it is recognised by the FCI, it was never registered by the Kennel Club in Great Britain itself and is very rare today.
✂️ Grooming, care & training
The Harrier's short, dense coat is easy to care for and needs only occasional brushing. As an active pack and hunting dog he needs a great deal of exercise as well as plenty of scent work to stay balanced. Training requires consistency, as his hunting drive easily leads him to follow the trail. He feels particularly at home in the company of other dogs.
🩺 Health
The Harrier is fundamentally a robust, healthy breed with a life expectancy of around ten to twelve years. Hip dysplasia occurs occasionally, which is why responsible breeders have the parent animals examined. As with all long-eared scent hounds, the ears should be checked regularly. Overall he is considered an uncomplicated, long-lived dog.
🏡 Who is this breed right for?
The Harrier suits best very active people or hunters who can offer him plenty of exercise, scent work and, ideally, canine company. For a city flat or a quiet life he is little suited, because of his urge to move and his hunting drive. In a sporty household with a garden and access to nature he can be a cheerful companion. In Switzerland he is very rarely encountered.