HARRIER Breed Standards
The origin of the Harrier is a bit of a mystery, and while there are many theories as to the beginnings of this breed, no one can say for certain how it came to be. Some believe the Harrier descends from a breed known as the Southern Hound, with a tinge of Greyhound blood. Others claim that the dog is an amalgamation of the now extinct Talbot and Saint Hubert Hounds, and possibly the French Basset Hound. Whatever its origin the Harrier has certainly existed in Britain for a very long time, entering the historical record definitively toward the end of the 12th century. By 1260 a man by the name of Sir Elias Midhope had established the first Harrier pack. These dogs trailed hare at a pace that humans could match, and the breed therefore became a kind of common man’s hare hunter since those without horses could nevertheless follow the dog on foot. Evidence of the Harrier’s working class heritage can also be seen in the great popularity of Harrier “scratch packs,” in which several men each owning one or more Harriers combined their dogs to make a kind of makeshift pack.
The Harrier was introduced to North America during colonial times, and has been used there as a hare trailer since that time. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885, but in all its long history in America it has never been a very popular breed. Debate still rages as to where exactly this dog came from, but more and more people are beginning to see the Harrier as simply a smaller version of the English Foxhound.
SKILLS: Developed in England to hunt hare in packs, Harriers must have all the attributes of a scenting pack hound. They are very sturdily built with large bone for their size. They must be active, well balanced, full of strength and quality, in all ways appearing able to work tirelessly, no matter the terrain, for long periods. Running gear and scenting ability are particularly important features.
SIZE: Size - 19 to 21 inches for dogs and bitches, variation of one inch in either direction is acceptable. Proportion is off-square. The Harrier is slightly longer from point of shoulder to rump than from withers to ground. Substance--Solidly built, full of strength and quality. The breed has as much substance and bone as possible without being heavy or coarse.
COAT: Short, dense, hard and glossy. Coat texture on the ears is finer than on the body. There is a brush of hair on the underside of the tail.
Color - Any color, not regarded as very important.
CARE REQUIRED: The short-haired coat of the Harrier is easy to groom. Occasionally brush and comb out the dead hair. This breed is an average shedder.
CHARACTER: Outgoing and friendly, as a working pack breed, Harriers must be able to work in close contact with other hounds. Therefore, aggressiveness towards other dogs cannot be tolerated.
EXERCISE: The Harrier is a pleasant companion when it is sufficiently exercised; however if they do not get enough outdoor space to exercise, it may become a nuisance. Country environments are best. Harriers will make an excellent jogging companion.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: Harriers are not recommended for apartment life. They are moderately active indoors and do best with acreage.
TRAINING: Cheerful, sweet-tempered, and tolerant, it is excellent with children. This pack dog is good with other dogs, but should be supervised with non-canine pets - unless it is raised with them from puppyhood. It prefers life in a pack with people, dogs, or both.
