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.
All Harrier Colors
The Harrier is recognized in 3 color variations. Standard colors are those accepted by major kennel clubs for conformation showing, while non-standard colors may occur naturally but are not eligible for the show ring. Both standard and non-standard colored Harriers make equally wonderful companions.
Standard vs Non-Standard Harrier Colors
Standard colors (3): Tri-color, Red and White, Lemon and White. These colors are accepted by the AKC and other major kennel clubs for conformation competition. Standard-colored Harriers are typically priced within the normal $800–$1500 range.
How Color Affects Harrier Price
| Standard colors | Normal pricing ($800–$1500) |
| Rare/unusual colors | Premium pricing (+$450–$750) |
While color can influence the price of a Harrier puppy, prospective owners should prioritize health testing, breeder reputation, and temperament over coat color. A responsibly bred Harrier in a common color with comprehensive health clearances is a better investment than a "rare" colored puppy from untested parents. The base price range for Harriers is $800–$1500, with color-based premiums adding to that range for certain variations.
Harrier Coat Type and Grooming
The Harrier's short and dense coat requires grooming appropriate to its texture and density. With grooming needs rated 1/5 and shedding at 3/5, owners should plan their maintenance routine accordingly.
The Harrier's low-maintenance coat is one of the breed's practical advantages. Weekly brushing removes dead hair and promotes skin health, while baths are needed only when the dog is dirty or every 6–8 weeks. Grooming costs are modest at $70–91 per month, and most routine grooming can be handled at home with basic tools.
Regardless of coat color, all Harriers benefit from regular nail trimming every 2–3 weeks, ear cleaning weekly (especially for breeds with floppy ears), and dental care including brushing three or more times per week. These basic grooming tasks prevent common health problems and keep your dog comfortable.
Harrier 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 Harrier 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.
Choosing a Harrier by Color
When selecting a Harrier puppy, coat color is one of the most visible factors, but it should be among the last in your decision-making process. Here is a practical framework for evaluating color alongside more important factors:
- Health testing comes first: Both parents should have documented clearances for breed-relevant conditions including Hip Dysplasia. No color is worth compromising on health documentation.
- Temperament matters more: Meet the puppies and both parents when possible. A well-socialized puppy with stable temperament from health-tested parents in a common color outweighs a "rare" colored puppy from an unknown background.
- Breeder reputation is essential: Reputable breeders prioritize producing healthy, well-tempered puppies and are transparent about all aspects of their program. They do not market "rare" or "exotic" colors at inflated prices.
- Then consider color: Once health, temperament, and breeder quality are confirmed, choose the color that appeals to you. All 3 recognized Harrier colors can produce healthy, happy companions.
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
Related Breeds You May Also Like
If you are interested in the Harrier, you may also want to explore these breeds with similar size, temperament, or group classification.