West Country Harrier

The West Country Harrier is the English hare-hunting pack hound of Devon, Somerset and Cornwall, bred by the packs themselves rather than to a registry standard.

History

Harrier packs have hunted hare in the West Country for centuries, and the hounds were bred within each pack from harrier and foxhound stock and recorded in pack studbooks. The West Country type is heavier and slower than the show harrier, built for the deep, wet going and the banks of the region.

Temperament

The breed is known for being sociable and even-tempered in a pack, friendly with people, hard-working and possessed of great stamina and a musical voice.

Care and training

A pack hound needs far more exercise than most households can supply, and secure ground, because the nose wins. The short coat is easy and the drop ears want checking.

Health

Generally robust from working selection; ear infections are the usual complaint. These are patterns for the type rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.