Harrier
This English Foxhound-looking dog also resembles an elongated (and thus prettier), more delicate Beagle. But make no mistake, despite her sweet expression the Harrier is a powerful working dog accustomed to a great deal of exercise and outdoor time. While not as common as her aforementioned lookey-likeys, the Harrier is a friendly, upbeat sort and adores spending time with her family, whether they be human or her fellow workers in the hunting pack. In addition to her looks, personality, and strength, the Harrier boasts a fine singing voice, although it may not always be appreciated by the neighbours.
Key facts about the Harrier
Origins and history
The Harrier seems to have been with us for some while, although how long is not clear because older descriptions may refer to the foxhound (from whom she may be descended) and no definitive origin story exists. Alternative histories place her at the foot of the bed of the Bloodhound, Talbot Hound, and Basset Hound, or English Foxhound, Fox Terrier, and Greyhound. While she’s noted for sure from the 18th century, she may go back as far as Sir Elias de Midhope and his 13th century pack of hare dogs.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 6 - Scent hounds and related breeds
Section
Section 1 : Scent hounds
Physical characteristics of the Harrier
Adult size
Female : Between 19 and 20 in
Male : Between 19 and 22 in
Weight
Female : Between 55 and 66 lb
Male : Between 55 and 66 lb
Coat colour
Type of coat
Eye colour
Description
Nestling-in neatly on the menu between the smaller beagle and the larger English Foxhound, the Harrier is the perfect compromise between the two. She is more svelte than the larger breed and less blunt than the little beagle. Her face is pretty and expressive, not the saddest among hound-dog faces but certainly in that direction; her ear flaps are large relative to her slim skull, and invite brushing upon the beholder’s cheek. She’s long with a deep chest that rises dramatically to her tight belly. Her back is so straight you could set your new kitchen tiles by it. Her tail, which points to attention, is often white-tipped and embellished with grain-like tufts.
Good to know
The Harrier is little-known as a show dog and has not been recognised by the English Kennel Club since 1971.