Harrier Colors & Coat Guide

All recognized Harrier colors, coat types, genetics, and how color can impact pricing and health.

Harrier Colors Overview

Harrier coat colors are governed by a complex interplay of genetics. Comes in any recognized hound color, with tri-color being the most common; color patterns are similar to those of the Beagle and Foxhound..

Understanding which colors are standard versus non-standard helps buyers make informed decisions. Color should never be the primary selection criterion—health and temperament come first.

Recognized Colors

Tri-color Standard

Red and White Standard

Lemon and White Standard

Color & Price Impact

Standard colors	Normal pricing ($800–$1500)
Rare/unusual colors	Premium pricing (+$450–$750)

Coat Genetics

The Harrier's coat color is the product of several interacting genes. Comes in any recognized hound color, with tri-color being the most common; color patterns are similar to those of the Beagle and Foxhound..

Modern DNA testing panels can identify a dog's genotype at key color loci, allowing breeders to predict puppy colors and avoid producing colors linked to health issues (such as double merle).

Rare vs Standard Colors

Rarity in Harrier colors typically reflects recessive genetics rather than desirability. The breed offers 3 color varieties, with standard colors including Tri-color, Red and White, Lemon and White. While unusual colors may be visually striking, they sometimes correlate with health concerns or breeding shortcuts.

A reputable Harrier breeder will never compromise health testing (for Hip Dysplasia and other conditions) to produce trendy colors. Be skeptical of breeders who market 'rare' colors at prices well above the $800–$1500 standard range.

Do Harrier Colors Change with Age?

Color evolution is normal in Harrier puppies. As a hound breed originally from England, the transition from puppy to adult coat occurs between 4–12 months and can bring noticeable changes in shade, pattern intensity, and marking definition. Standard colors like Tri-color, Red and White, Lemon and White are generally established by maturity.

Controversial Colors

When shopping for a Harrier, be skeptical of breeders who advertise unusual colors at prices above $1500. Non-standard colors beyond Tri-color, Red and White, Lemon and White can indicate mixed breeding or genes linked to health issues. Comes in any recognized hound color, with tri-color being the most common; color patterns are similar to those of the Beagle and Foxhound..

Frequently Asked Questions

Standard Harrier colors include Tri-color, Red and White, Lemon and White. Comes in any recognized hound color, with tri-color being the most common; color patterns are similar to those of the Beagle and Foxhound..

Rarity depends on genetics. Non-standard colors may be less common but should not be prioritized over health and temperament. Comes in any recognized hound color, with tri-color being the most common; color patterns are similar to those of the Beagle and Foxhound..

Yes, many Harrier puppies experience color changes between 4 and 12 months as the puppy coat transitions to the adult coat. Comes in any recognized hound color, with tri-color being the most common; color patterns are similar to those of the Beagle and Foxhound.. Standard colors like Tri-color, Red and White, Lemon and White are generally stable by 12 months.

For the Harrier, standard colors have no known health associations. Some non-standard colors in certain breeds can be linked to deafness, eye problems, or skin sensitivity. Comes in any recognized hound color, with tri-color being the most common; color patterns are similar to those of the Beagle and Foxhound..

Among Harriers, the most commonly seen colors are Tri-color, Red and White, Lemon and White. The breed has a relatively limited color palette. Comes in any recognized hound color, with tri-color being the most common; color patterns are similar to those of the Beagle and Foxhound..