Harrier

Do Harriers shed?

Harriers shed a moderate amount — noticeable but manageable with regular brushing. Expect heavier shedding in spring and autumn as they blow their coat. A weekly brush reduces the hair in your home significantly. Not the breed for anyone with severe allergies, but most people manage fine.

Are Harriers good with kids?

Yes — Harriers are generally good with children. They tend to be friendly and outgoing, which makes them a natural fit for busy family life. Always supervise any dog around young children, regardless of breed. Their high energy actually works in their favour here — they can keep up with kids for hours.

Are Harriers good with cats?

Harriers have a strong prey drive and will often chase cats. It\'s not impossible to have a Harrier and a cat together, but it takes careful management — separate spaces, slow introductions over weeks, and never leaving them unsupervised until you're absolutely certain they're safe together. Some Harriers raised with cats from puppyhood learn to coexist, but the prey drive is rarely fully extinguished.

Are Harriers easy to train?

Harriers are honest work to train — they have an independent streak and won't follow a command unless they understand why it benefits them. Patience and consistency are non-negotiable. Short sessions with high-value treats (think chicken, not dry kibble) get better results than long frustrating drills. Puppy classes are strongly recommended — not because they need it more than other breeds, but because early foundations make life significantly easier.

Do Harriers bark a lot?

Harriers are a vocal breed. They bark at strangers, at sounds, sometimes at nothing visible at all. This isn't a problem you can fully train away — it's part of the breed's character. If you live in a flat or semi-detached house with thin walls, this is worth seriously considering before you buy. Early training and mental stimulation reduce unnecessary barking, but it won't disappear entirely.

Are Harriers hypoallergenic?

No — Harriers are not hypoallergenic. They shed medium amounts of hair and dander, which is the main allergen trigger for most people. If allergies are a dealbreaker, consider a Poodle, Bichon Frise, or a Poodle-cross (Cockapoo, Cavapoo, Labradoodle) instead — all produce much less dander.

How much exercise does a Harrier need?

Harriers need 90–120+ min/day of exercise daily. This is a highly active breed — one short walk won't cut it. They need sustained, vigorous exercise. Without it, expect destructive behaviour, hyperactivity at home, and a generally miserable dog. Running, hiking, fetch, swimming, agility — this breed is up for all of it.

Mental exercise matters as much as physical. A Harrier with a bored brain will find its own entertainment — usually involving your sofa or your shoes. Training sessions, puzzle feeders, and nose-work games all count.

Harrier health problems

Like all breeds, Harriers are prone to certain conditions. Knowing about them upfront means earlier detection, better outcomes, and fewer surprise vet bills.

• Dental disease. Smaller breeds have crowded teeth and are prone to periodontal issues. Brush teeth regularly.
• Luxating patella. Kneecap slipping, especially common in small breeds.
• Obesity. The most preventable health problem across all dog breeds. Keep them at a healthy weight.
• Annual vet checks. Catching problems early makes all the difference.

How long do Harriers live?

Harriers typically live 12–15 years. This is fairly typical for a medium-sized breed.

Lifespan is heavily influenced by weight management, exercise, genetics, and access to regular vet care. A Harrier at a healthy weight, with good genetics and regular check-ups, will typically live toward the top of that range.

How much does a Harrier cost in the UK?

A Harrier puppy from a reputable KC-registered UK breeder typically costs £700–£1 500.

If you see a Harrier puppy advertised for significantly less than £700, be very cautious. Low prices are the most common red flag for puppy farms.

The purchase price is just the start. First-year costs typically include:

• Vaccinations: ~£80–120
• Neutering/spaying: £200–400 depending on size and vet
• Microchipping (mandatory in UK): ~£20–30
• Bed, crate, leads, collar: £100–250
• Food (per year): £400–£1,200+ depending on size and diet
• Pet insurance: £25–£55/month (see below)
• Routine vet visits: £50–200/year

Total first-year cost beyond the puppy price: typically £1,500–£3,000.

Harrier pet insurance

Pet insurance for a Harrier in the UK typically costs £25–£55/month for comprehensive lifetime cover.

Lifetime cover is strongly recommended over cheaper time-limited or maximum-benefit policies. Once a condition is diagnosed and treated, lifetime cover continues to pay for it every year. Time-limited policies exclude it after 12 months — exactly when chronic conditions become expensive.

Compare quotes from Petplan, ManyPets, Waggel, and Animal Friends — all have strong reputations for actually paying out claims. Always check the annual limit (aim for £7,000+ per condition) and whether hereditary conditions are covered.