HARRIER

COUNTRY: Great Britain

WEIGHT: 48-60 pounds

HEIGHT: 19-22 inches

COAT: Short, coarse and hard

COLOR: Any hound color including blues

GROUP: Hound

The Harrier is, in actuality, a perfect small version of an English Foxhound: crosses of various old-style., heavy scenthounds with lighter, smaller hounds, such as the Beagle, with a dash of this *n that. These dogs are the same in form and ability, and developed directly from the same stock that created the larger hound. Records show an established pack of Harriers was owned by Sir Elias de Midhope as early as 1260. The Cotley Pack of Somerset was organized by Thomas Deane in 1796, with many Harriers brought to the "colonies" during that time. Their original capacity was for following the large, slower European hare in front of their masters who hunted on foot. Later hunters on horseback followed the packs.

Like the English Foxhound, most Harriers were raised by specialized hunt clubs for use by their members. Many of these packs were renowned, their fame continuing for several generations. The Quarme Harriers, which have a distinctive pale color, were disbanded following the last World War, after a long and illustrious history. The Minehead Harriers still hunt in the County of Somerset. Other packs have been bred and hunted continuously for more than a hundred years. Pack Harriers in England are registered and regulated by the Association of Masters of Harriers and Beagles, This group's stud books have two sections—one for the English Harrier and one for the West Country Harrier, recognizing differences in type.

The sport of hound trailing is very popular in the Lake district and the area bordering England and Scotland. The hounds, following a drag track, are run for speed only; the first one arriving at the finish line is declared the winner. Since the sport attracts as much betting as the racing dog tracks, formal rules and regulations have been passed. For this activity, they use crossbred hounds that are basically Harrier, but with various surreptitious additions to create the necessary speed.

Harriers as a pure breed have subsisted in the United States although never in large numbers. If pack raised they are more dog-oriented, like the Foxhound. When reared in individual homes, they are like any other hound. The dogs are gentle, never biting nor snapping. Grooming is minimal, and they are healthy and hardy souls.

The hound stubbornness and single-minded-ness do require firm, early discipline. A basic obedience course is recommended for any Harrier, even if the owner does not plan to pursue exhibiting in that arena. Training helps establish the proper relationship of who gives the orders.

This breed is a rough-and-tumble, independent lot, perfect for the family that works hard and plays hard. The Harrier thrives without pampering, and does well if the family is gone all day. Exercise is a must, however, making this dog an excellent companion for long hikes, bike rides or horseback jaunts.