Harrier (or Harehound)

The Harrier is the perfect mix of boundless energy and elegant vibes. A dog built for action, but who also knows how to relax after a good exploration session.

🏞 Origins & History

Born in the 13th century in Great Britain, the Harrier descends from the best hunting dogs bred by Sir Elias de Midhope. At that time, it hunted hares and foxes in packs, and today, even though it is less common, it remains a highly efficient dog with an incredible sense of smell.

🐕 Harrier Profile

This large running dog is a true endurance machine. Muscular, but not massive, it has fluid and confident movements that give it a classy and athletic look. Its energy? Unlimited. Its need to move? High. Its ultimate joy? Running and exploring.

🔍 Quick Facts

• Hypoallergenic? No

• Weight: 25-30 kg

• Height: 48-55 cm (males), 45-49 cm (females)

• Life expectancy: 12-14 years

• Exercise needs: 2 to 3 hours per day minimum

❤️ Personality & Compatibility

• Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

• Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

• Protective: ⭐⭐☆☆☆

• Playful: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

• Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (it knows how to make itself heard!)

• Obedient: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (training a hunter is a challenge!)

• Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (pro-level scenting)

• Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (after a big sports session)

• Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (tireless)

• Independent: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (more of a people person than a lone wolf)

Compatibility

• Children: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (gentle and playful)

• Animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (early socialization is essential)

• Strangers: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (curious but not overly cautious)

• Apartment: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (not ideal unless you run every day)

The Harrier is a dog that needs fresh air and space. Not a big fan of apartment living, it prefers a house with a garden to let off steam. It also loves long hikes and walks in nature.

🛠 Maintenance & Care

• Maintenance difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

• Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐☆☆☆

• Maintenance frequency: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

• Care tips:
  Its short, dense coat is easy to maintain: a little brushing once a week is enough. No complicated grooming, but a regular check-up of the ears and pads after its adventures is essential.

💰 Budget

• Purchase price: €1000-1200

• Average annual cost: €450-650 (food, veterinary care, accessories)