Breed comparison

English Foxhound vs Harrier

How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.

5Affection with family5
5Good with young children5
5Good with other dogs5
4Openness to strangers4
4Playfulness4
4Energy level4
4Trainability4
4Mental stimulation needs4
4Adaptability4
3Watchdog / protective3
5Barking5
3Shedding3
1Coat grooming1
2Drooling2

The biggest differences

These two breeds are close on every trait: no score differs by more than one point.

They score the same on affection with family, good with young children, good with other dogs, openness to strangers, playfulness, energy level.

Which one should you choose?

Pick the English Foxhound if its looks and size suit you better, since the ratings are close. Pick the Harrier if its looks and size suit you better, since the ratings are close.

Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.

Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.

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