Lurcher
The Lurcher is a cross between a sighthound (Greyhound, Whippet or Saluki, for example) with another breed of dog, often a sheepdog or terrier. Originating in Great Britain and Ireland, the Lurcher was historically used for coursing, thanks to its exceptional hunting skills. This crossbreed combines the speed and agility of a sighthound with the intelligence and hardiness of the working breeds. Today, Lurchers are valued not only as hunting dogs, but also as loyal and affectionate pets.
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Life expectancy |
The Lurcher has a life expectancy of between 12 and 15 years |
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Temperament |
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Size |
Large
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Adult size |
Female
Between 22 and 31 in
Male
Between 22 and 31 in
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Adult weight |
Female
Between 55 and 77 lb
Male
Between 55 and 77 lb
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Coat colour
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Black
White
Brown
Blue
Brindle
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Type of coat
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Short
Hard
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Eye colour
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Brown
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Purchase price |
The Lurcher costs between £400 and £1000 |
More details about the Lurcher
Lurcher: Origins and history
The origins of the Lurcher date back to the British Isles, mainly in Great Britain and Ireland. The history of Lurchers is closely linked to that of travellers, who used these dogs for hunting small game, especially hares.
The Lurcher was created in the 14th century, a time when only nobility was allowed to own greyhounds in Britain. To circumvent this restriction, the lower classes crossed greyhounds with other working dogs, creating the Lurcher, an effective and versatile hunting dog. The name "Lurcher" derives from the word "lur," meaning "thief" in Romani, due to their frequent use in poaching.
Although the Lurcher is not recognized as an official breed by major dog organisations, it is valued for its affectionate and playful nature. Modern breeding efforts tend to preserve the Lurcher's temperament rather than focusing on specific physical characteristics.
Lurcher: Characteristics
Lurchers are extremely affectionate dogs, who form very strong bonds with family members. They're affectionately referred to as "velcro dogs", as they often follow their owners like shadows.
Lurchers are generally calm indoors, but they also love to play. It's not uncommon to see a Lurcher enjoying "zoomies" on walks or chasing a tennis ball - then settling down for a snooze once they're back at home!
Lurchers are very calm indoors, provided they're given enough exercise on a daily basis.
Lurchers are very fast learners. They adapt to new situations and pick up new tricks quickly. Brain games will help keep your Lurcher busy at home.
Lurchers typically have a strong prey drive, which they inherit from both parent breeds. Fast and agile, the Lurcher is an excellent hunter, but this does mean care must be taken on walks.
Lurchers usually enjoy the company of humans, but they can be reserved and timid around those they don't know. Early, ongoing socialisation will help your Lurcher feel more comfortable getting to know people.
Lurchers are not particularly independent dogs, unless they catch sight of a small animal outdoors. They normally like to be around their family whenever possible.
Lurcher: Behaviour
Lurchers do best with lots of company, and they don't enjoy being left alone for extended periods of time. Without separation training from a young age they can be prone to separation anxiety.
Lurchers are intelligent dogs, who enjoy learning new tricks. Gentle, consistent training is best suited to these sensitive dogs.
Lurchers are not vocal dogs. This is one of the factors that makes them well-suited to apartment living.
Due to their high prey drive, Lurchers may stray if left unsupervised. A well-fenced garden and a secure exercise space will help keep your Lurcher safe.
Lurchers can become destructive if they aren't offered the right physical and mental stimulation.
Lurchers are not particularly greedy dogs, but as with any dog, their diet should be carefully monitored.
Lurchers may alert their owners to the presence of strangers, but they do not make good guard dogs.
Training a Lurcher
Due to its intelligence and eagerness to please, the Lurcher is generally easy to train. These dogs respond well to positive and consistent training methods, making them obedient companions.
Lurcher: Lifestyle
Lurchers can adapt well to apartment living, provided they have enough exercise and time outdoors. A house with a fully fenced garden would be the ideal set up for a Lurcher, offering the opportunity to run and play off-lead.
Lurchers love to run, and many of these dogs excel at agility. A Lurcher is happiest when they're able to run and play on a daily basis.
Depending on the parent breeds, Lurchers can become fairly large in size. How easy it is to travel with your Lurcher will depend on both their individual temperament and size, but many Lurchers do make good travel companions.
Breed compatibility Lurcher
Depending on their prey drive, Lurchers can find it challenging to share their home with cats. If properly socialised from a young age, they may learn to accept a cat as a member of the family, making them able to live harmoniously together.
Lurchers are usually very sociable with other dogs. They love the company of other dogs, and enjoy being part of a group.
Lurchers are typically gentle and affectionate towards children, provided the children behave respectfully towards them. As with any dog, adult supervision is always recommended.
Lurchers can make good companions for the elderly, provided they are offered plenty of physical and mental stimulation on a daily basis. They do need a chance to run and play, in order to feel happy and relaxed at home.
Lurchers can be a good choice for first-time owners, provided they have enough time to train, socialise and exercise their canine companion. With their gentle, friendly temperament they also make wonderful family pets.
Lurcher: Purchase price
The cost of a Lurcher depends on the parent breeds, the breeder and the location of the litter.
In addition to the initial cost, you'll need to factor in expenses for veterinary care, vaccinations, parasite treatment, a balanced diet and accessories.
Lurcher: Shedding
Average
Lurchers are generally considered to shed moderately, but this depends on the parent breeds they come from. They may have a short, lightly textured coat, or a double coat, which will influence how much grooming they require. Like many dogs, Lurchers typically experience an increase in shedding during the moulting seasons in spring and autumn. Regular brushing can help manage shedding.
Lurcher: Health
Lurchers are generally healthy, hardy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health problems. Regular visits to the vet will help keep them feeling their best.
Lurchers can be sensitive to the heat due to their relatively thin coats. They are prone to heatstroke, especially during the summer months. It's important to provide them with fresh water and shade, and to keep them indoors during periods of high heat to avoid any health problems.
Lurchers tend to tolerate the cold better than the heat, but those with very short coats may need protection in colder months.
Lurchers can be prone to weight gain if they are not given enough exercise or are overfed. Monitoring their diet and providing them with regular exercise is essential to maintaining a healthy weight.
While they are often thought of as a hardy crossbreed, Lurchers can be prone to some common illnesses.
They may be predisposed to:
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye problems
- Bloating (gastric torsion)
- Sensitivity to heat and cold
It is important for Lurcher owners to be aware of these potential problems and to see a veterinarian regularly for preventative health checks to keep their dog healthy.
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