West Country Harrier

Also called Somerset Harrier

A pack hound valued for its keen nose and tuneful cry.

Size	Medium
Coat	Short coat
Origin	South-west England, mainly Devon and Somerset.1

Rare breedShort profile

excellent nose

attractive, musical voice

works well as part of a pack

Personality what they are like

A pack hound valued for its keen nose and tuneful cry. It is a little less fast and driving than other Harriers but makes up for it with its scenting skill.1

Coat and looks how to spot one

short coat

A pack scent hound with a short, close coat. It is somewhat larger and paler than the stud-book Harrier.1

Colourswhite with cream markingswhite with yellow markings1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a West Country Harrier. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Bred to hunt hare in packs, traditionally followed on foot, so it is built for long days of steady work.1

The story where it all began

Harriers have been used in England since at least the 1200s. The West Country type is thought to come from older Harrier stock with little Foxhound blood, and possibly from the old Staghound. A handful of packs still keep it in the UK.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
The whole population lives in the UK, in only about five packs.1
2
It is often praised for having a more tuneful voice than the stud-book Harrier.1
3
It is also called the Somerset Harrier after one of its home counties.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is named after the West Country region of England, specifically the counties of Devon and Somerset, where it was developed and is most frequently found; it is sometimes called the Somerset Harrier.1

Name ideas for your new friend

BrambleDartmoorFollyGorseHarrietHollerMollyRallySomersetTallyTuneWessex

A day in the life told by a West Country Harrier

I wake to the scent of damp earth and a sky full of promise. My humans laugh as I stretch, my tail a happy flag. Today we follow a winding trail through the woods; I put my nose to the ground and sing a low, joyful note. The pack moves steady, each step a chorus of sniff and pad. At a clearing, I pause to watch a rabbit's quick flash, no chase, just a game. We rest by a stream, and I nuzzle a child's hand. Home smells of tea and warm blankets. I curl by the fire, my dreams full of brambles and birdsong.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Association of Masters of Harriers and Beagles: Kept in its own separate stud book.1
The Royal Kennel Club: Not recognised as a separate breed.1

How many About 300 dogs in around 5 packs, all in the UK1

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my West Country Harrier, and at what times?

Feed adult West Country Harriers at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Consistent morning and evening times work well. Follow the food label and your vet for exact amounts.2

What should a West Country Harrier eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A balanced commercial dog food is a great choice. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always check with your vet for specific dietary needs.3

How often should I bathe a West Country Harrier?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests bathing every 56 days, but at least once every three months is fine. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues.4 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a West Country Harrier need brushing?

Brush your West Country Harrier weekly to keep its short coat healthy and reduce shedding. Pet Wiki's plan suggests brushing every 7 days.1 4 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a West Country Harrier's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 28 days or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid bleeding. Ask your vet or groomer to show you if unsure.4 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a West Country Harrier need?

This breed needs plenty of daily exercise, ideally long walks or runs. Pet Wiki's plan includes daily walks and play. They were bred for steady work, so be prepared for an active dog.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a West Country Harrier's teeth and ears?

Brush your West Country Harrier's teeth at least twice a week, ideally daily, using dog toothpaste. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, as floppy ears can trap moisture. Never insert anything into the ear canal.4 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a West Country Harrier live?

Lifespan varies by individual. Ask your breeder or vet for typical expectations for this breed.

Is a West Country Harrier good with children and other pets?

As a pack hound, they may be good with other dogs, but individual temperament varies. Always supervise interactions with children and other pets. Ask a breeder for specific advice.

Can a West Country Harrier be left alone?

This varies by individual dog. Some hounds may be more independent, but they are pack animals and may not like being alone for long. Consult a good breeder for guidance.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.