Information, Facts & Origins of the Harrier
The Harrier originates from England and is a dog of medium size. The harrier is similar to the Foxhound but is somewhat more playful and outgoing. It was bred originally to hunt small game - fox, rabbit and hare . It's origins can be dated back to the Middle Ages and it is classified as one of the Hound Dogs Group which we go on to describe in describe in detail in the section at the bottom of this page. Harrier Dog NamesThe Harrier - A Scent Hound
The Harrier belongs to the collection of dogs referred to as Scent Hounds, which specialise in following the scent or the smell of its quarry. It wasn’t until the mid 1500's that hounds began to be classified according to their purpose, i.e. sight hounds, scent hounds, etc. Scent Hounds have distinctive characteristics, features and traits which are perfect for their purpose. They have large noses which have deep, open nostrils and their lips are loose and moist, designed to pick up scent particles and follow the trail of an animal. Their ears are long which concentrates the scent on the nose. Their bodies are designed for endurance, an essential asset when following any scent trail. Hunting takes different forms and as man opts for hunting their quarry either on foot or on horseback the scent hounds have been selectively bred to produce small legs, to enable a man to easily follow on foot, or longer legs suited to keep up with a man on horseback. Most scent hounds were used in packs - making a loud, deep baying noise alerting hunters to their location. As a pet the Harrier is a very active dog and is best suited to families who are very experienced with dogs. It has a friendly & non aggressive character. Information, Facts & History of the Harrier Dog
The Harrier - what's in a name? The Harrier's name is described as being a derivative of many different origins - all seem to be logical so we have included them all! - Harrier - meaning the word Hound from the Normans
- From the Middle English harien - to force or to move along by harassing or worrying
- Middle English hairer, eirer influenced by hare
The Harrier was bred in England specifically for hunting hares and rabbits. It was probably cross bred originally from French hunting dogs during the Middle ages. This French influence occurred during events such as the Norman Invasion of 1066 and it will come as a revelation to many that the only spoken language of the famed English King, Richard the Lionheart, was in fact French. English Hunters wanted smaller and faster dogs than the traditional Hound dogs. Harriers were considered the poor man's alternative to the upper class practice of hunting with packs of foxhounds. The breeding process included strains of the Bloodhound Terrier, Bulldog and Greyhound to eventually produce the Harrier known today. During the 17th and 18th century Harriers were used specifically for hunting rabbits and hares at a pace that enabled hunters to follow on foot. Harrier packs were, however, also kept by the aristocracy as the Harrier was also capable of running with mounted hunters. The Harrier was introduced in America during the times of the first settlers. The first AKC (American Kennel Club) registered English Foxhound was registered in 1909. Description of the Harrier Dog and Puppies - Coat and Colours info
The Harrier's coat comes in a range of the following colours: Tri-colour - Black/White/Tan or Pied - Fawn/White Coat. The coat is dense, short and glossy. Dog Health information - potential health problems of the Harriers
All owners of dogs and puppies are concerned about the health care of their pets and just as with humans dog health issues arise from time to time. Resolving dog health problems, including those of the Shikoku, can prove to be costly and it would be wise to consider the benefits of obtaining dog health insurance. Diseases in dogs may occur because of trauma, infection, immune system abnormalities, genetic factors, or degenerative conditions. Common health problems and questions occur in relation to the Bones, Joints, Muscles, Nerves, Ears, Eyes, Teeth and the Mouth. Other, more serious, issues can relate to the Digestive System, Heart & Respiratory Systems, Immune & Blood Systems, Reproduction and Urinary Systems. There are no apparent common health problems with the Harrier.Please click the following link for additional information which we have provided via our: Online Encyclopaedia of Common Dog Health Problems This describes the most common canine health problems concisely but simply without using medical jargon. A section on Dog and Puppy Vaccinations is also included offering information on each of the diseases, symptoms and effects for which immunization vaccines are available. Not sure of the name of the dog or puppy illness? A Dog Illness Symptoms Sorter is also featured. The Online Encyclopaedia of Common Dog Health Problems should only be used as an informational guide and when and if any dog or puppies health problems occur it is essential to raise any questions you may have with a Dog Health care professional. |
