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Harrier

Harrier is a medium hound breed from England also known as English Harrier.

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Breed overview

Harrier is a medium hound breed from England also known as English Harrier.

An ancient English pack hound developed in medieval times for hunting hares on foot (as opposed to foxhounds used on horseback). They're considered the link between the larger English Foxhound and the smaller Beagle.

People looking into Harrier usually prepare for High exercise needs, Low grooming needs, 45–60 lbs • 19–21 in.

English Harrier

History and origin

Harrier is tied to originating from England, specifically West Country, with sources often placing its development around 1200 CE.

Harrier is described here as placed in the hound group and marked as an established breed.

An ancient English pack hound developed in medieval times for hunting hares on foot (as opposed to foxhounds used on horseback). They're considered the link between the larger English Foxhound and the smaller Beagle.

Browse dog breeds from England Browse more hound breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
hound
Size
Medium
Origin country
England
Region
West Country
Origin year
1200 CE
Weight
45–60 lbs
Height
19–21 in
Lifespan
10–12 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
3 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
3 / 5
Barking tendency
4 / 5
High exercise needsLow grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 3/5

Coat and classification

Harrier is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

ShortHardGlossy

Harrier is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Medium-sized pack hound between Beagle and Foxhound
  • Short, hard coat typically tricolor
  • Long, hanging ears and gentle expression
  • Athletic build designed for endurance hunting

What this breed is known for

  • An ancient English pack hound developed in medieval times for hunting hares on foot (as opposed to foxhounds used on horseback). They're considered the link between the larger English Foxhound and the smaller Beagle.
  • One of the rarest breeds in America, with fewer than 300 registered annually. Despite their excellent hunting abilities and gentle temperament, they've been overshadowed by more popular hound breeds.
  • The oldest pack of Harriers still in existence is the Penistone Pack in Yorkshire, England, which has been hunting continuously since 1190 - making it one of the oldest documented dog breeding programs in the world.

Health and care notes

Harrier is noted here for High exercise needs and Low grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Heart Disease
  • Eye Conditions

Coat details: Short, Hard, Glossy

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Harrier come from?

Harrier is closely associated with England, especially West Country in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Harrier get?

Typical size details for Harrier on this page are 45–60 lbs, 19–21 in, 10–12 years.

What is the Harrier known for?

An ancient English pack hound developed in medieval times for hunting hares on foot (as opposed to foxhounds used on horseback). They're considered the link between the larger English Foxhound and the smaller Beagle.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Harrier reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.