Breed Standard
Head: Moderately heavy. Fairly broad skull. Stop not pronounced. Bridge of nose straight. Tapering muzzle. Well-developed nose.
Ears: Fairly short and medium-sized. Slightly folded in the mid-section. Hanging flat against the skull and turning slightly at the bottom edge.
Eyes: Wide, dark in color.
Body: Well-built. Neck open. Chest well let-down but not too flat. Abdomen fairly full, tuck-up never excessive. Short, level, muscular back. Heavy, muscular loin, may be slightly clean-flanked.
Tail: Moderately long, fairly heavy.
Hair: Not too short, fairly thick, flat.
Coat: Tricolor (fawn to black and white): mantle not too pronounced. Pale to deep tan or smoky markings. There are grey Harriers and grey Tricolor Beagle Harriers.
Size: 45 to 50 cm (15.7-19.7 in).
Weight: Approx. 20 kg (44 lb).
History
The Beagle Harrier is a recent creation developed in France in the late nineteenth century by Baron G rard. The breed is a cross between the Beagle and the Harrier and probably received blood from medium-sized breeds indigenous to southwestern France. Larger and faster than the Beagle, the Beagle Harrier is excellent in small game hunting (hare, fox, deer, and wild boar). Attempts by breeders to upset the balance in favor of the Beagle or the Harrier were unsuccessful. Today?s breeders have stabilized the breed, which is neither a large Beagle nor a small Harrier. The standard was officially registered with the FCI (International Cynological Federation) in 1974 and is gaining popularity in France.
Behavior
The Beagle Harrier is hardy, vigorous, fast, agile, and courageous but less powerful than the Harrier. With his determination and keen sense of smell, he works well in packs and is not afraid to enter even the thickest brambles. This easygoing, straightforward dog is a pleasant companion.
He needs space and exercise, as well as regular brushing.
Function
Hunting Dog, Companion Dog.
Health
Avoid bathing the dog very often as it will remove the natural oils that make the dog’s coat weather resistant. Additionally, ears must be regularly checked to prevent infection.
