Harrier grooming: brushing, bathing and shedding
A practical grooming routine for the Harrier: coat care, baths, nails and ears.
Care for the coat takes minutes a week. A brush with a hound glove or rubber mitt removes loose hair and keeps the coat glossy, and shedding is moderate year-round. Bathe only when needed, since frequent bathing dries the skin, although a hound that has rolled in something foul will need an immediate wash.
The drop ears trap moisture and dirt, so check and clean them weekly and dry them after swimming or rain. Trim nails every few weeks if they do not wear down naturally, and brush teeth several times a week. After country walks, look over the coat and ears for ticks and grass seeds.
Harrier grooming in numbers
This is an illustrative schedule based on our editorial grooming score, not a breed-specific care protocol. Coat condition, skin problems and professional advice may call for a different routine.
| Task | Planning example |
|---|---|
| Brushing | Every week or two |
| Bathing | Every 2 to 3 months, or when dirty |
| Shedding | Moderate, year round |
| Nail trim | Every 3 to 4 weeks |
| Ear check | Every 2 weeks |
| Teeth | Daily brushing; introduce gently and ask your vet if the mouth seems painful |
Coat
A short, dense, hard coat that lies flat and shrugs off rain, mud and brambles.
Grooming needs
Shedding
Drooling