West Country Harrier

FriendlySociableEnergeticScent-drivenIndependent

The West Country Harrier is a sturdy, cheerful scent hound bred for working long days in the field with a pack. At home it tends to be friendly, sociable, and eager to please, usually getting along well with children and other dogs. Its strong nose and independent streak mean it can wander off after an interesting smell, so a secure yard or a reliable recall matters.

Day to day, this is a dog that needs real exercise, not just a short walk around the block. Plan for long, varied walks and time to sniff, and give it puzzle feeders or scent games to keep its mind busy. It does best in a home where someone is around for much of the day.

Good for: Active families with a secure yard or outdoor space

Exercise	about 90 min a day
Shedding	moderate
Origin	United Kingdom, England

Before you choose a West Country Harrier

Expect a dog that needs substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation, and that will follow its nose hard.

Living with a West Country Harrier

Exercise

Plan for at least an hour or more of daily activity, including long walks and off-lead time in a safe area. Scent work and running sessions suit its working background well.

Grooming

The short, dense coat needs a weekly brush to remove loose hair and keep it tidy. Bathe only when needed, as it sheds moderately year-round.

Health

Like many hounds, it can be prone to ear infections because of its floppy ears, and it may be prone to obesity if exercise and feeding are not managed. Ask your vet about screening and a suitable routine.

Ear infections
Obesity
Hip dysplasia

Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.

The numbers for a West Country Harrier

Weather

Watch above 75°F, stop at 85°F

Coat or short walks below 32°F. Comfortable in most weather: watch pavement heat above 85°F and add a coat below freezing if the coat is short.

LIVE · New York

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Walk index

Heat, pavement and UV for your dog.

Right now

Latest dog food recalls

Aunt Millie s Bakehouse Whole Grain White Hot Dog Buns 6" Sliced 2 OUNCE. 12 unlabeled 12CT PKGS per sale unit case, product code 7502. Net. Wt. 18lbs.
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Sep 13 · Undeclared sesame

Breadman Brioche products in plastic bags: Brioche Toast, 2 lb. (1 loaf/bag), Brioche Buns, 40oz (10 buns/bag), Brioche Sliders, 50oz (25 sliders/bag), Brioche Hot Dog, 40oz (10 buns/bag)
Breadbox Co. · May 16 · Undeclared Yellow No. 5

Our Family White Hot Dog Enriched Buns, 8 count 12oz. retail unit UPC 0-70253-75107-3
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Mar 21 · undeclared sesame

All recalls →

Questions owners ask

Do West Country Harriers shed a lot?

They shed moderately throughout the year, with heavier shedding in spring and autumn. A weekly brush keeps loose hair under control.

Can a West Country Harrier live in an apartment?

It can, but only with a dedicated owner who provides long daily walks and mental activity. Its high energy and strong nose make a house with a secure yard a better fit.

How much exercise does a West Country Harrier need?

Most adults need around an hour or more of activity a day, including long walks and safe off-lead time. Scent games help meet their need for mental work.