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Harrier
Hound breed from England
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Harrier
The Harrier is a medium-sized scent hound, classified in the Hound group. Its origins are in England, where it was developed for hunting hare in packs. The breed is described as friendly, outgoing, energetic, intelligent, and gentle. Harriers have a short coat and are known for their stamina. They are not well-suited to apartment living due to their energy level. Their size is estimated: males and females both weigh between 20 and 27 kg and stand 48 to 53 cm tall. Lifespan is estimated at 12 to 15 years. Grooming needs are low (score 2 out of 5), shedding is moderate (score 3). They are rated highly for compatibility with children (4) and other dogs (4). Trainability is moderate (score 3). Energy level is high (score 4). Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Harrier at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginEngland
Lifespan12–15 years
Male weight20–27 kilogram
Female weight20–27 kilogram
Male height48–53 centimetre
Female height48–53 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Harrier is a breed of hound that originated in England. Historical sources indicate it was developed in medieval England for hare hunting in packs, with documentation dating back to at least the 13th century. The breed likely descended from the English Foxhound, Talbot Hounds, and other French hounds. However, the exact timeline and specific details of its development are not fully documented, and some aspects remain uncertain. As a pack hound, the Harrier was bred to work in groups, pursuing hare with endurance and a keen sense of smell. Its medium size and sturdy build made it well-suited for this purpose. The breed's history is closely tied to English hunting traditions, but its recognition status varies by registry, meaning not all kennel clubs may recognize it as a distinct breed. The available facts do not specify when or by which organization it was first recognized. Today, the Harrier is still valued for its hunting abilities and also kept as a companion. Its temperament is described as friendly, outgoing, energetic, intelligent, and gentle. However, individual dogs may vary, and these traits are general tendencies rather than guarantees.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
20–27 kilogramAdult weight48–53 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesShortCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Friendlyoutgoingenergeticintelligentgentle
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Harrier-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Harrier puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight20–27 kilogramAdult female weight20–27 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Harrier?
Based on modelled estimates, adult Harriers typically weigh between 20 and 27 kg and stand 48 to 53 cm tall at the shoulder. Their lifespan is estimated at 12 to 15 years. These figures are estimates and may vary.
What is the Harrier's temperament like?
The breed is described as friendly, outgoing, energetic, intelligent, and gentle. However, individual dogs may differ, and these are general tendencies rather than guarantees.
How much exercise does a Harrier need?
Harriers have a high energy level (score 4 out of 5), so they require substantial daily exercise. They were bred for pack hunting and have excellent stamina, so activities like long walks, runs, or off-leash play in a secure area are recommended.
What are the grooming requirements for a Harrier?
Grooming needs are low (score 2 out of 5). The short coat requires minimal brushing, and shedding is moderate (score 3). Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are still important.
Is a Harrier suitable for apartment living?
No, Harriers are not well-suited to apartment living (score 2 out of 5). They have high energy and need space to exercise. A home with a fenced yard is more appropriate.
How does the Harrier get along with children and other dogs?
Harriers are rated highly for compatibility with children (score 4) and other dogs (score 4). They are generally friendly and gentle, but supervision and proper socialization are always recommended.
Where did the Harrier originate?
The Harrier originated in England. It was developed in medieval times for hare hunting in packs, likely descended from the English Foxhound, Talbot Hounds, and other French hounds. Its recognition status varies by registry.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.