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HARRIER |
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The Harrier is,
in actuality, a perfect small version of an English Foxhound: crosses
of various old-style., heavy scenthounds with lighter, smaller hounds,
such as the Beagle, with a dash of this *n that. These dogs are the same
in form and ability, and developed directly from the same stock that created
the larger hound. Records show an established pack of Harriers was owned
by Sir Elias de Midhope as early as 1260. The Cotley Pack of Somerset
was organized by Thomas Deane in 1796, with many Harriers brought to the
"colonies" during that time. Their original capacity was for
following the large, slower European hare in front of their masters who
hunted on foot. Later hunters on horseback followed the packs.
Like the English
Foxhound, most Harriers were raised by specialized hunt clubs for use
by their members. Many of these packs were renowned, their fame continuing
for several generations. The Quarme Harriers, which have a distinctive
pale color, were disbanded following the last World War, after a long
and illustrious history. The Minehead Harriers still hunt in the County
of Somerset. Other packs have been bred and hunted continuously for more
than a hundred years. Pack Harriers in England are registered and regulated
by the Association of Masters of Harriers and Beagles, This group's stud
books have two sections—one for the English Harrier and one for the West
Country Harrier, recognizing differences in type.
The sport of hound trailing is
very popular in the Lake district and the area bordering England and
Scotland. The hounds, following a drag track, are run for speed only;
the first one arriving at the finish line is declared the winner. Since
the sport attracts as much betting as the racing dog tracks, formal
rules and regulations have been passed. For this activity, they use
crossbred hounds that are basically Harrier, but with various surreptitious
additions to create the necessary speed. Harriers as
a pure breed have subsisted in the United States although never in large
numbers. If pack raised they are more dog-oriented, like the Foxhound.
When reared in individual homes, they are like any other hound. The
dogs are gentle, never biting nor snapping. Grooming is minimal, and
they are healthy and hardy souls.
The hound
stubbornness and single-minded-ness do require firm, early discipline.
A basic obedience course is recommended for any Harrier, even if the
owner does not plan to pursue exhibiting in that arena. Training helps
establish the proper relationship of who gives the orders.
This breed
is a rough-and-tumble, independent lot, perfect for the family that
works hard and plays hard. The Harrier thrives without pampering, and
does well if the family is gone all day. Exercise is a must, however,
making this dog an excellent companion for long hikes, bike rides or
horseback jaunts.
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