Harrier
Temperament:
The Harrier dog originates from Great Britain. This breed is officially recognized by the FCI and bears the standard number 295. Furthermore, the Harrier is classified among the medium-sized running dogs.
Characteristics
The appearance of the Harrier dog is very reminiscent of a beagle. These furry noses reach a height at the withers between 48 and 55 centimeters. The optimal weight of a Harrier should be between 22 and 27 kilograms.
The smooth and close-fitting fur of the quadruped can show the most different colors. From orange to black, everything is there. Characteristic, however, is its white base. Especially in France, the Harrier is bred in tricolor with a black coat.
The skull of this dog breed is medium in size and broad. The stop is only very slightly pronounced. His hanging ears are located at the level of the eyes. They are also v-shaped. The body of the Harrier dog is strong and muscular. He appears stocky, which is due to his short torso and rather short legs.
If you are thinking about getting a Harrier dog into a family, you can look forward to a long-lasting companion. The life expectancy of these four-legged friends is between 9 and 15 years.
This dog breed is considered to be very friendly. It has a gentle and peace-loving character. They are characterized mainly by their high intelligence. Therefore, they are also very eager to learn and always want to be well occupied.
If you want to get a Harrier, you should keep in mind that these dogs bring some requirements to their new home. They have a very strong urge to move and possess a strong stamina. Since they were originally used for hunting rabbits, Harrier dogs have an excellent sense of smell.
When hunting, the Harrier is mostly used in packs. Therefore, he is also very sociable by nature and loves the company of other fur noses. As a rule, he is therefore very compatible in dealing with other dogs.
You should note that the Harrier has a high assertiveness. He is also very stubborn and independent. A consistent education is therefore the be-all and end-all. However, you should be very gentle and affectionate.
If you keep your new pet as a family dog, you will gain a very affectionate and loyal friend. If he is kept for hunting in a pack, he will not build such a close relationship with his owners. Although the Harrier is a very alert and attentive dog, aggressiveness is a foreign word to him.
Due to its nature, the Harrier can be trained excellently to be a running and welding dog. He excels especially on flat terrain. This breed is also wonderfully suitable for hunting with horses.
If you are not a hunter yourself, you can take your Harrier to dog sports instead. Otherwise, the pelt-nose loves contact with other dogs. Long walks also make the four-legged friend particularly happy. A sufficient occupation should be absolutely ensured.
You should be prepared for the strong hunting instinct of this breed. If you are in a place where there is a lot of game, you should leash him as a precaution. The Harrier feels most at home in a home that offers him plenty of exercise. A house with a large garden is therefore perfect. In the city, however, the Harrier does not feel very comfortable.
Coat care:
Shedding:
Energy level:
Trainability:
Children suitable:
The right food
Unlike some other breeds, the Harrier dog has no special requirements for its diet. The food should be rich in meat. Of course, the meals should contain all the important nutrients. There is nothing wrong with giving treats. Of course, this should always be done in moderation. After all, you don't want your pet to struggle with weight problems one day.
Harrier care
As with many hunting dogs, the Harrier requires little maintenance. Occasional brushing is therefore quite sufficient. If the Harrier is taken hunting, it should be checked for wounds and vermin afterwards.
Suitable accessories
Depending on the attitude of your pet, you will also need different accessories. For hunting training you need special dummies, scents and a training whistle. Apart from that, you should have everything that any other dog breed would need. This includes a leash, collar, toys, brush and of course a nice place to sleep.
Origin & History
The Harrier originates from Great Britain and was first mentioned in writing in 1260. It is believed that French running dogs are the forefathers of this breed. In the Middle Ages he was used for hunting, especially in the West of England. Thus, the English nobleman Sir Elias of Midhope owned a famous Harrier pack. In 1889 the first Harrier exhibition took place. Subsequently, two associations were founded, which from then on devoted themselves to the pure breeding of this breed.
However, where the name of the Harrier comes from is not entirely clear. Since the Harrier dog is a very old dog breed, it is not easy to clarify this origin beyond doubt.
The Harrier dog was originally bred to go rabbit hunting with. Therefore, some think that his name is derived from the English word "Hare" (hare). Others believe that the four-legged dog got its name from the Norman-Saxon language. Here, "Harrier" simply means "dog".
