Harrier
The Harrier is described by the AKC as friendly, outgoing, people-oriented, a member of the Hound Group, originally from England.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 19-21 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 45-60 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Friendly / Outgoing / People-Oriented [1] |
| AKC group | Hound Group [1] |
| Origin | England [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 199 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Harriers were bred specifically to spend hours in the field chasing after prey, so they need ample exercise every day'¿without sufficient exercise, a Harrier may become bored and destructive. If they get all the activity they need, they can be adaptable to a range of home situations. While they are happiest living indoors with their human family, they make great companions on long walks or hikes. [1]
Grooming
The Harrier's short, glossy coat requires minimal maintenance. A weekly brushing with a soft-bristle brush or a hound glove will help to remove dirt and loose hair and keep the dog looking his best, and an occasional bath(using a gentle shampoo) can help keep him from having a doggy odor. The ears should be regularly inspected and cleaned if needed with soft gauze and an ear-cleaning solution'¿the dog's breeder or the veterinarian can recommend a good brand to use. [1]
Health issues to budget for
While Harriers are generally healthy dogs, there are several health and genetic screening considerations specific to the breed. Responsible breeders test their stock for conditions the breed can be prone to and communicate with other dedicated breeders regularly, working together for breed health and the preservation of the breed's qualities. A Harrier's ears should be checked weekly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed often, using a toothpaste designed for dogs. Regular visits to the vet for checkups and parasite control help to ensure the dog a long, healthy life. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Harrier in 1885. [1]
- It ranked No. 199 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 183 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Harrier.” [1]
- The AKC lists England as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 2 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- ✅ Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 5/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 5/5
Common questions
How long do Harriers live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How big does a Harrier get?
AKC breed information lists height 19-21 inches and weight 45-60 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Harrier?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Harrier, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.