Harrier

Harriers are a scent hound, known for their string nose with a keen sense of smell. Originally they were developed in England to hunt hare in packs. The Harrier is essentially a smaller version of the English Foxhound, yet they sre still a sturdy, large-boned dog.

They will work tirelessly, no matter what the terrain is, for long periods. Today, more commonly they serve as family companions and excel in tracking and agility sports. Harriers are friendly and outgoing, as a working pack breed, they should be able to work closely with other hounds.

Harrier History:

The Harrier is believed to be one of the oldest scent hounds around today. Some people think that the Harrier descended from the Southern Hound, with a tinge of Greyhound bloodline. Others make claim that the dog is a combination of the now extinct Talbot and Saint Hubert Hounds. Whatever the exact origin of the breed, the Harrier today looks like a cross between a Beagle and an English Foxhound.

The Harrier is well suited to hunt fox and was mostly used by the upper class, however they were also popular among the poor who were unable to afford horses for their hunt. The Harrier has an extremely keen sense of smell, a quick wit and is practically inexhaustible. More often then not the prey of this breed simply collapses from the pure exhaustion of the chase. The breed is popular in England where it carries the reputation of being a fine working dog.