Harrier Hound Puppy: Week-by-Week Growth, Feeding & Training Guide

The Harrier is one of the rarer scenthounds you'll encounter in the United States — the AKC ranks them consistently outside the top 150 breeds in popularity. That scarcity means most new Harrier owners have limited breed-specific puppy resources to draw from. If you've just brought home a Harrier hound puppy or are preparing to, this guide gives you the exact week-by-week roadmap you need, built around the breed's specific traits: high scent drive, pack orientation, vocal tendencies, and athletic build that demands structured growth management.

Harriers are often confused with Beagles (they're larger) or English Foxhounds (they're smaller). A mature Harrier stands 19–21 inches at the shoulder and weighs 45–65 pounds. As puppies, they grow rapidly through the first six months, which makes proper nutrition and joint-protective exercise management critical. They're also a vocal, social breed — a Harrier hound puppy left alone too long during formative weeks will develop separation distress habits that are notoriously difficult to undo.

Before we get into specifics: always consult your veterinarian for personalized health and vaccination decisions. The schedules below reflect standard protocols, but your vet may adjust based on local disease prevalence and your puppy's individual health status.

When Should You Bring Your Harrier Hound Puppy Home?

The optimal age to bring a Harrier hound puppy home is 8 to 10 weeks. While some states legally allow sale at 6 weeks, reputable Harrier breeders typically retain puppies until at least 8 weeks. Here's why the extra two weeks matter specifically for this breed:

• Weeks 6–8 with littermates: Harriers are pack hounds. During this period, puppies learn bite inhibition from siblings — a critical skill for a breed with strong prey drive and a tendency to mouth during play. Puppies removed before 8 weeks show higher rates of problem biting later.
• Week 8 developmental window: This coincides with the start of a fear impact period (weeks 8–10). Transitioning to your home during this window means you control the environment — new sounds, surfaces, and people are introduced gradually rather than in a chaotic breeder's home.
• First vaccination: Most responsible breeders administer the first DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus) vaccine at 6–8 weeks before the puppy leaves.

Harrier Hound Puppy Milestones: Week by Week

Understanding what's developmentally normal at each stage prevents unnecessary panic and helps you set realistic expectations. Harriers mature somewhat slower than smaller breeds but faster than giant breeds — expect full physical maturity around 14–18 months and behavioral maturity closer to 2–2.5 years.

Weeks 4–8 (At the Breeder)

During this period, your puppy is still with the breeder. Key developments include:

• Weaning transitions from mother's milk to softened puppy kibble (weeks 4–6)
• Introduction to solid food by week 6–7
• Social play with littermates intensifies — hierarchy behaviors emerge
• Startle responses to loud sounds develop; early noise desensitization should begin
• Weight at 8 weeks: typically 8–12 lb (3.6–5.4 kg) for a Harrier

Weeks 8–12 (Home Transition & Bonding)

This is your primary bonding window. Expect:

• First 48 hours: possible crying at night, loose stools from stress/diet change, clingy behavior
• Weeks 9–10: fear impact period — avoid overwhelming experiences (no crowded dog parks, no harsh corrections)
• Sleep needs: 18–20 hours per day is normal; overtired puppies become nippy and hyperactive
• Weight gain: roughly 1.5–2 lb per week during this stage
• Attention span: 2–5 minutes per training session maximum

Weeks 12–16 (Confidence Building)

• Fear period typically ends around week 12; puppy becomes bolder
• Second fear period may begin around week 16 — previously confident puppies may suddenly seem "spooky"
• Teething discomfort begins as adult teeth start loosening baby teeth
• Weight: 20–30 lb (9–14 kg) by week 16
• Can handle 5-minute structured training sessions

Weeks 16–24 (Adolescent Foundation)

• Energy levels surge — this is when Harriers' scenthound instincts become obvious (ground-sniffing, tracking, vocalizing)
• Weight: 30–45 lb (14–20 kg) by 6 months
• Bladder control improves significantly; potty accidents should decrease sharply
• Social hierarchy testing begins — your puppy may "ignore" previously learned cues
• Spay/neuter discussions with your vet typically happen during this window

Months 6–12 (Adolescence)

• Sexual maturity: intact males may begin marking; females typically experience first estrus between 6–10 months
• Weight: approaching 80–90% of adult weight by 10 months
• Energy peaks — adolescent Harriers need 45–60 minutes of structured exercise daily plus mental stimulation
• Training regression is normal; consistency and patience are essential
• Adult coat fully replaces puppy coat by 8–10 months

Feeding Schedule: Exact Portions by Age and Weight

Harriers are athletic, medium-sized hounds prone to rapid growth. Overfeeding during puppyhood increases the risk of orthopedic problems including hip dysplasia, which the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) tracks in the breed. Feed a large-breed puppy formula (not regular puppy food) to moderate growth rate and protect developing joints.

Look for an AAFCO statement on the food label confirming the formula is complete and balanced for growth or all life stages. Target a food with 22–28% protein and 12–18% fat on a dry matter basis. Avoid grain-free boutique diets unless your vet specifically recommends them — the FDA has investigated potential links between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs.

Vaccination Schedule for Your Harrier Hound Puppy

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends core vaccines for all puppies based on disease risk and maternal antibody waning. Harriers don't have breed-specific vaccine sensitivities (unlike some toy breeds), so standard protocols apply. Your veterinarian will tailor timing to your area's disease prevalence.

Optional vaccines to discuss with your vet: Leptospirosis (recommended if your Harrier will hunt or hike in areas with wildlife/water exposure), Lyme disease (tick-endemic regions), and Canine Influenza (if boarding or attending group events frequently).

When Can Your Harrier Puppy Go Outside and Meet Other Dogs?

This is the tension every Harrier puppy owner faces: the critical socialization window closes around 14–16 weeks, but full vaccination isn't complete until 16–18 weeks. The Merck Veterinary Manual and most veterinary behaviorists agree that the behavioral risk of under-socialization outweighs the disease risk if you manage exposure carefully.

Safe socialization before full vaccination (8–16 weeks):

• Carry your puppy in a sling or backpack to pet-friendly stores, outdoor cafes, and quiet parks
• Arrange playdates with known, fully-vaccinated, healthy dogs in private yards
• Enroll in puppy kindergarten classes that require proof of at least one DHPP dose and Bordetella vaccination (most reputable training facilities enforce this)
• Avoid public dog parks, pet store floors, and areas with unknown dog feces until 7 days after the final DHPP at 16 weeks
• Walk on paved surfaces rather than soil/grass where parvovirus can persist for months

After full vaccination (16+ weeks): Gradually introduce public trails, controlled dog park visits (start during low-traffic hours), and group hikes. For a Harrier, prioritize scent-rich environments — sniffing is mental exercise equivalent to a physical workout for this breed.

Socialization Checklist: Weeks 3–14

The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior recommends structured exposure to diverse stimuli during the primary socialization period. For a Harrier hound puppy — a breed prone to vocalization and scent-distractibility — prioritize these exposures:

Potty Training Timeline and Realistic Expectations

Harriers are moderately straightforward to house-train compared to some hound breeds, but their scent-distractibility means they may "forget" to signal when something interesting is on the ground. Expect full reliability between 4–6 months of age, with occasional accidents possible through 8 months, especially during routine disruptions.

Bladder capacity guideline: A puppy can hold their bladder for roughly one hour per month of age, plus one. So a 3-month-old Harrier puppy can manage approximately 4 hours — but this is a maximum, not a target. Take them out more frequently to build the habit.

Potty training troubleshooting for Harriers:

• Accident in crate: The crate may be too large. Use a divider to size it so the puppy can stand, turn, and lie down — no more. Harriers won't soil their sleeping area if space is appropriately sized.
• Won't eliminate on leash: Harriers need to sniff and circle to find the "right" spot. Allow 5–10 minutes on a long line (15-foot leash) in a designated potty area. Don't rush them back inside immediately after they go — a brief post-potty play session prevents them from learning that elimination ends fun.
• Submissive urination when greeting: Common in young Harriers. Ignore the puppy for the first 30 seconds when you enter; greet calmly at their level. Never punish submissive urination — it worsens the behavior.
• Marking behavior (6+ months): Intact males especially. Supervise closely indoors; interrupt with a neutral "oops" and redirect outside. Spay/neuter reduces but doesn't always eliminate marking.

Crate Training Progression and Time Limits

Crate training is particularly valuable for Harrier puppies because the breed is prone to destructive chewing when bored or understimulated. A properly crate-trained Harrier also handles veterinary boarding and travel far better throughout life.

Crate training steps for Harriers:

1. Days 1–3: Leave the crate door open. Feed all meals inside the crate. Toss high-value treats (freeze-dried liver, small cheese pieces) inside for the puppy to retrieve. Never force the puppy in.
2. Days 4–7: Close the door during meals, open immediately after. Begin closing for 1–2 minutes while you sit nearby. Reward quiet behavior with treats slipped through the crate.
3. Week 2: Extend closed-door time to 10–15 minutes while you remain in the room. Introduce a stuffed Kong or lick mat as a crate-only enrichment item.
4. Week 3: Leave the room briefly (30 seconds to 2 minutes) while puppy is crated with a chew toy. Return before they become distressed. Gradually extend absences.
5. Week 4+: Puppy should enter the crate willingly for meals and naps. Begin using the crate for short departures from home.

Teething Timeline and Relief Strategies

Harrier puppies follow a standard teething progression, but their strong jaws and determination mean they'll seek out chewing outlets aggressively during this period. Plan ahead.

• 3–4 weeks: Baby (deciduous) teeth fully erupted — 28 teeth total
• 12–16 weeks: Baby teeth begin loosening as adult teeth push through. You may find tiny teeth on the floor; most puppies swallow them (harmless).
• 4–5 months: Peak teething discomfort. Gums may appear red or slightly bloody. Appetite may dip temporarily.
• 5–6 months: Most adult teeth erupted — 42 teeth total. Retained baby teeth (especially canines) should be evaluated by your vet; they're somewhat common in medium breeds and may require extraction if they don't fall out naturally.
• 6–7 months: All adult teeth should be in. If baby teeth persist beyond 7 months, schedule a veterinary dental check.

Safe chew options for teething Harrier puppies:

• Frozen Kong stuffed with plain yogurt and mashed banana (freeze 4+ hours)
• Wet washcloth twisted into a rope and frozen (supervise; remove when pieces tear off)
• Benebone Wishbone or Nylabone Power Chew (puppy formula) — sized for the puppy's current weight
• Chilled carrot sticks or apple slices (remove seeds) — low-calorie and soothing
• Earth Animal No-Hide chews (size-appropriate) as a supervised digestible option

Avoid: Rawhide (choking and blockage risk), cooked bones (splintering), antlers and hooves (tooth fracture risk in young dogs with softer developing teeth), and any chew toy small enough to swallow whole.

Common Harrier Puppy Problems and Solutions

Every breed has its puppyhood challenges. Harriers' combination of scent-drive, vocal nature, and pack mentality creates a specific set of predictable issues.

Problem: Puppy Biting and Nipping

Harrier puppies explore the world with their mouths, and their hound heritage means they tend to be mouthier than many breeds. Expect nipping to peak between 10–16 weeks.

Solution: When teeth touch skin, say "ouch" in a calm, slightly high-pitched tone and immediately withdraw attention for 10–15 seconds (stand up, turn away, or step behind a baby gate). Redirect to an appropriate chew toy and praise enthusiastically when they chew it. Never hold the mouth shut, tap the nose, or use physical punishment — these methods increase fear and can escalate biting. If biting intensifies, your puppy is likely overtired; initiate a crate nap.

Problem: Excessive Whining and Howling

Harriers are one of the more vocal hound breeds. Puppy whining is normal; unmanaged, it becomes a lifelong attention-seeking habit.

Solution: First, rule out physical needs (potty, hunger, pain, temperature). If needs are met, ignore whining completely — no eye contact, no verbal response, no touching. The moment the puppy is quiet for even 2 seconds, mark with a calm "yes" and offer a treat or attention. This is differential reinforcement of an incompatible behavior. For crate whining at night, a Snuggle Puppy (heartbeat toy) or a ticking clock wrapped in a blanket can provide comfort.

Problem: Destructive Chewing

Adolescent Harriers (4–8 months) will chew baseboards, shoes, furniture legs, and anything else they can reach if insufficiently stimulated.

Solution: Management first — puppy-proof your home using baby gates, pen enclosures, and crate time when unsupervised. Provide a rotation of 5–7 appropriate chew toys (rotate every 2 days to maintain novelty). Ensure your puppy gets at least 30–45 minutes of physical exercise plus 15–20 minutes of mental stimulation (snuffle mats, puzzle feeders, training sessions) daily. A mentally tired Harrier is far less destructive than a physically tired one.

Problem: Not Coming When Called (Recall Failure)

This is the #1 safety concern with Harriers. Their nose overrides their ears. A Harrier puppy who catches an interesting scent will run, and they will not hear you.

Solution: Never allow off-leash freedom in unsecured areas — this is a lifelong management need for most Harriers. Build recall in controlled environments: start indoors with zero distractions, use ultra-high-value treats (real chicken, hot dog pieces), and practice 5–10 times daily. Progress to a long line (15–30 foot) in fenced areas. Never call your puppy for something unpleasant (nail trim, bath, crate time) without pairing it with something positive. Until recall is rock-solid (which for many Harriers takes 1–2 years of consistent practice), use a long line for all outdoor exploration outside fenced areas.

First-Year Cost Breakdown for a Harrier Hound Puppy

Budgeting realistically prevents surrender to shelters when costs surprise new owners. Here's a first-year estimate based on 2026 US pricing for a medium-sized hound breed:

After the first year, expect ongoing annual costs of $1,200–$2,500 for food, preventives, annual vet exams, and insurance. Emergency veterinary care is not included in these estimates — a single emergency visit can cost $500–$3,000+, which is why pet insurance or a dedicated emergency fund is strongly recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions About Harrier Hound Puppies

How often should I feed my Harrier puppy at each age?

Feed 3–4 meals per day from 8–12 weeks, drop to 3 meals from 12 weeks to 6 months, then transition to 2 meals per day from 6 months onward. Split the total daily portion evenly across meals. Consistent feeding times help regulate potty schedules — feed at the same times daily and remove uneaten food after 15–20 minutes.

When will my Harrier puppy be fully potty trained?

Most Harrier puppies achieve reliable house-training between 4–6 months with consistent management. "Fully trained" means fewer than one accident per month under normal conditions. Some Harriers, particularly intact males, may have occasional marking incidents through 8–10 months. If accidents increase suddenly at any age, rule out a urinary tract infection with your vet before assuming it's behavioral.

How do I stop my Harrier puppy from biting and nipping?

Use the "ouch and withdraw" method consistently: vocalize calmly when teeth touch skin, withdraw attention for 10–15 seconds, then redirect to an appropriate chew toy. Ensure your puppy gets adequate sleep (18–20 hours for young puppies) — overtired puppies bite more. Provide teething relief through frozen Kongs and chilled chews. Expect nipping to decrease significantly by 5–6 months as adult teeth come in, though adolescent Harriers may mouth during excited play until 12+ months.

Are Harrier puppies good with children?

Well-socialized Harriers are generally excellent with children — they're sturdy, playful, and tolerant. However, Harrier puppies are mouthy and bouncy, which can overwhelm toddlers. Always supervise interactions between puppies and children under 10. Teach children not to approach the puppy while eating or sleeping, and provide the puppy with a child-free retreat space (crate or pen).

How much exercise does a Harrier puppy need?

Follow the 5-minutes-per-month-of-age guideline for structured walks: a 4-month-old gets about 20 minutes of leash walking per day, split into two sessions. Free play in a secure yard can supplement this. Avoid repetitive high-impact exercise (long runs, jumping from heights, agility equipment) until growth plates close around 14–18 months — consult your vet for clearance. Mental exercise (scent games, puzzle feeders, short training sessions) tires a Harrier puppy more effectively than physical exercise alone.

Will my Harrier puppy get along with my cat?

Harriers were bred to chase hare and fox, so prey drive is inherent. Early, controlled introductions during the socialization window (before 14 weeks) significantly improve cat-dog cohabitation success. Start with the cat in a carrier or behind a baby gate, reward the puppy for calm behavior, and never allow chasing. Many Harriers live peacefully with household cats they're raised with, but may still chase outdoor cats or small wildlife — this is breed nature, not a training failure.