Easy
Harrier
The Harrier is a medium-sized pack hound developed in England for hunting hares, resembling a smaller English Foxhound but with an independent, determined scenting style. Their short, dense, hard hound coat is weather-resistant and extremely low-maintenance, designed for a dog that works long hours in field conditions. Ear care is the primary ongoing grooming requirement.
Coat Type
Short, Dense, Hard, Weather-Resistant Hound Coat
Groom Every
Every 6-8 weeks
Styles Available
2 cuts
Cuts & Styles
Grooming Styles
1
Standard Hound Bath
A full bath with hound or sport dog shampoo, rubber mitt polish, nail trim, and ear cleaning. The standard and sufficient grooming service for this easy-care breed.
2
Natural Hound
Rubber curry brush twice weekly and weekly ear cleaning between professional baths. Low-maintenance home care for this naturally clean breed.
Expert Advice
Care Tips
- Clean the Harrier's long, floppy ears weekly with a veterinary ear cleanser — the breed's low-set ears restrict canal airflow and are particularly vulnerable to moisture-related ear infections after field work.
- The dense hound coat has a natural oil that repels light surface dirt; use this to your advantage and brush dried mud or debris off rather than immediately bathing the dog after every outdoor session.
- A rubber curry brush used in brisk circular motions twice weekly is more effective at removing the Harrier's short, straight loose coat than a slicker brush — the bristles align with the coat direction and collect shed hair efficiently.
- After pack hunting or running with other dogs, inspect the coat closely for scratches, insect bites, or skin abrasions hidden under the short coat.
- Paw pad maintenance is important for an active trailing breed — inspect pads after field use and apply a protective balm in winter or on very hot pavement.
Recommended Tools
What you'll need
Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush
BrushThe gold standard for poodles and doodles. Features long pins that penetrate deep into dense coats to remove tangles and fluff the hair.
$60 - $75
Miller's Forge Quality Nail Clipper
Nail CareUsed by professional groomers worldwide. Made of high-quality Italian stainless steel with a heavy-duty spring for clean, sharp cuts.
$10 - $15
Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
BrushAn excellent entry-level brush that's easy to clean. Great for removing loose fur and detangling shorter coats.
$15 - $25
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Deep Dives
Harrier Grooming Guides
Summer Grooming
Heat management, coat care, and seasonal tips.
Read guide
Winter Coat Care
Cold-weather protection and moisture balance.
Read guide
Shedding Season
Survive the seasonal blowout without losing your mind.
Read guide
Prevent Matting
Detangle, prevent, and protect their coat year-round.
Read guide
Best Brushes
The right tools for this specific coat type.
Read guide
Nail Trimming
Safe nail care frequency and technique.
Read guide
Ear Cleaning
Prevent infections with proper ear care.
Read guide
Bathing Guide
How often to bathe and which products to use.
Read guide
Grooming Cost
What professional grooming should cost for this breed.
Read guide
Hypoallergenic
Shedding, dander, and allergy-friendly coat care.
Read guide
First-Time Owner
Grooming basics for new owners of this breed.
Read guide
Skin & Allergies
Itchy skin, hot spots, and coat-sensitive care.
Read guide
Dental Care
Oral hygiene tied to coat and skin health.
Read guide
Flea & Tick
Parasite prevention without damaging the coat.
Read guide
Pro vs DIY
When to groom at home and when to hire a pro.
Read guide
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