There are a many references throughout history of scent hunting dogs similar to the modern Harrier including being mentioned in the Doomsday Book but the first recorded pack of Harriers was the Pennistone Pack owned by Sir Midas of Midhope in 1260 which existed as a cohesive pack for 500 years.
In the Victorian era the Harrier was included in the original Kennel Club Studbook(1874) as one of the only 40 breeds recognised by the document. The last time Harriers were shown at a Kennel Club show or entered in their Studbook was in 1915. The last time they were shown at Crufts was 1898
From the First World War until after the Second there was a significant decline not just in Harriers but in most breeds, working dogs and pet populations. Only Foxhounds received government support for food in order to manage the fox population. At the same time many privately owned Harrier packs hunted by the owners of large estates were disbanded.
By the middle of the 20th Century there were fewer than 50 Harrier packs and the AMHB banned the sale of registered Harriers and strictly controlled the breeding of dogs and sale of Harriers outside other registered packs, the result being that they all but disappeared outside the hunting community. The Kennel Club eventually withdraw breed recognition in the early 1970s
The Harrier was re-recognised by the UK Kennel Club in January 2020 and as of 2022 there are now over 50 pure bred Harriers registered with the KC
The Harrier is the perfect dog for active people who like long walks, running or cycling. Harriers are well balanced dogs, extremely intelligent and willing to learn if given the opportunity. People have trained Harriers in obedience, agility, tracking and there are no boundaries of what Harriers can be taught providing you give them adequate training.
Harriers are full of energy but not hyperactive. Harriers love being with their owners but will not be constantly demanding attention as long as they know you are around they will entertain themselves. Harriers need leadership and discipline and you as the owner need to be the leader of the pack and set the rules not the other way around.
There are no known health issues.