Harrier

Harrier

The Harrier is not as well known today as its relatives, the J\English Foxhound and Beagle; however, it did have a moment of fame during the 1890s when it was more popular than the Beagle as a hunting dog.

History:

The Harrier breed came into existence in the 1800s and was developed by crossing the Beagle with the now extinct St. Hubert Hound. The Harrier was bred to hunt small game such as hares and is considered to be a scent hound. They are smaller than English Foxhounds and are suitable for following on foot or horseback. The first pack was recorded as being established in Britain in 1260. In this first phase, the breed was also known as the West County Harrier.

They never became universally popular, and by the early twentieth century, numbers had dwindled until there was only one pack of Harriers left in West County, England. To revive the breed, the remaining pure Harriers were crossed with the Foxhound. The introduction of Foxhound blood changed the Harrier into a considerably faster dog.

In the UK, Harriers are still interbred with small English Foxhounds, and the name is also used to refer to a type of small hound rather than a specific breed. Records show that the first Harriers were shipped to the US in the eighteenth century, but it is not known exactly where the Harriers landed.

Physical characteristics:

This breed is a well-balanced, medium-sized hound, and looks similar to a larger, heavier Beagle. Height: 19 - 21 in (48 - 53 cm). Weight: 40 - 55 lb (18 - 25 kg). The most common color for the Harrier is tricolor, black, white and tan - although they can be all the usual Hound colors. The broad chest, strong back, and sturdy legs of the Harrier allow it to run for miles without becoming fatigued.

Behavior:

Although in most areas the Harrier is not as popular as the Beagle, it is a good all-round dog. Its size makes it ideal for people who prefer not to have a big dog but still want the robust characteristics of a larger breed. The Harrier is a very sociable dog that really enjoys the company of other dogs. It makes an excellent watch-dog and delights in alerting its owners to the presence of possible intruders.

The Harrier was originally a working tracking dog, and it is happiest when asked to find an object, animal, or person by scent. The Harrier is generally a good dog with people, and really benefits from early socialization.