Harrier

Brushing Routine

Brush weekly with a firm bristle brush or rubber hound mitt to maintain the short, dense, weather-resistant coat. A grooming mitt used 2-3 times weekly captures loose hair and distributes natural oils for a healthy sheen. Use a deshedding tool during spring and fall shedding periods.

Bathing Tips

Bathe every 5-7 weeks with a mild deodorizing shampoo. Harriers have a moderate hound scent -- less intense than larger hound breeds but still noticeable. Clean the pendant ears thoroughly during each bath. A whitening shampoo helps maintain brightness on the white portions of the tricolor coat.

Common Issues

• Moderate hound odor in warm weather
• Ear infections from pendant ears trapping moisture
• White coat portions staining from grass and outdoor activity
• Heavier shedding during seasonal transitions than expected
• Active temperament making calm grooming challenging

Extend Your Grooming Results

Clean ears every 3-4 days with a drying ear solution. Use a whitening spray on stained white coat areas between baths. A daily grooming mitt session significantly reduces loose hair on furniture. Exercise before grooming sessions for calmer handling. The tricolor coat looks best when regularly maintained.

Seasonal Care

Harriers shed moderately year-round with notable increases in spring and fall. In Houston summers, their athletic build and short coat manage heat reasonably well, but provide shade during extended outdoor activity. The dense coat insulates in winter. Ear care increases in importance during humid months.

Maintenance Schedule

Weekly brushing with bristle brush, grooming mitt 2-3 times weekly, ear cleaning every 3-4 days, nail trims every 3-4 weeks, whitening spray on stained areas as needed, professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.