Judy Taylor
Active, talented, and sensitive: the Lurcher is a dog of its own. For whom it is suitable and where the big four-legged friend has its roots, read here!
What is a Lurcher?
The Lurcher is a breed of dog. The term mixed-breed dog is more applicable to the large four-legged friend. Because it emerges from a greyhound (predominantly Whippet or Greyhound) and another, non-greyhound-like breed of dog.
This second part is predominantly occupied by large terriers or collies. The Lurcher has its origins in the British Isles during the Middle Ages. There he was used for the hunt (mainly for rabbits).
All Lurchers can cover long distances with ease and achieve high speeds in the process. In contrast to other hunting dogs such as the beagle, it does not bark when it chases the prey but remains silent.
In the past, it was often used with another Lurcher in the hunt. This particular form of hunting, which requires dogs with a lot of perseverance, is forbidden in Europe. In this country, the greyhound-like four-legged friend is a rarity.
Lurcher: Appearance, Height & Weight
In contrast to its purebred conspecifics, the Lurcher does not have a uniform breed standard. To this day, breeders are trying to crossbreed with new dog breeds in order to optimize their skills as hunting dogs. However, since it always has some of the genes of a greyhound in itself, some characteristics can be narrowed down:
- The Lurcher is a tall dog with a broad chest and narrow waist.
- Many of the hybrid dogs reach a shoulder height of over 70 cm and thus belong to the larger dogs.
- The maximum weight of a Lurcher is 32 kg.
- The Lurcher has ears that stand either forward or to the sides.
Lurchers will find a great variety of fur properties. Half-long fur, short fur and stick hair are possible – which is comparable to that of some Collies. The colors of the eyes and fur, which come in every imaginable color, remain just as varied.
Lurcher: Temperament
On the one hand, the Lurcher shows a lot of passion when hunting and is persistent, disciplined, and attentive. On the other hand, his affectionate and gentle disposition comes to the fore in the circle of his family. With good socialization, he shows himself to strangers friendly and never suspicious.
Like many greyhounds, the Lurcher is extremely sensitive and receptive to the mood of his caregiver. He forms a close bond with his human being and needs his closeness. Equipped with a high instinct to play, he shows great enthusiasm for all activities that challenge his sense of smell or his ability to think.
Lurcher: Life Expectancy & Diseases
On average, Lurchers live to be 12 to 15 years old. Despite this high life expectancy, the following diseases, among others, can occur:
- With their broad chests and narrow waistlines, hybrid dogs are at increased risk of stomach twists.
- Some lurchers are prone to eye problems such as cataracts.
- Be careful when running: Lurchers are particularly prone to injuries to muscles, paws, and nails.
How Do I Raise a Lurcher?
Lurchers are incompatible with a strict upbringing. Like the whippets and greyhounds, they are sensitive and need gentle guidance. With communication at eye level and a lot of trusts, your people achieve success in training.
The hunting instinct is firmly anchored in a Lurcher’s genes. Anti-hunting training can keep uncontrolled hunting in check. However, it is not advisable to unleash in the great outdoors, as the risk of escaping is too great.
Is a Lurcher Right for Me?
Like a dog that was bred for hunting, the Lurcher has a higher level of activity. He, therefore, needs people who let him live out his drive and hunting instinct. As with many greyhounds, the dog sport coursing is ideal. At the same time, it is important to ensure that there is sufficient exercise in the form of walks in nature and free running in limited areas.
Its prey drive can make it difficult to coexist with smaller pets. The Lurcher is all the more suitable as a family dog for this. He is affectionate and gentle in the company of children. As a people-related dog, a Lurcher is in good hands with people who can spend a lot of time with them.
A city apartment is less of an option for the active four-legged friend. A house with a garden or a yard with a large plot of land is ideal for him. However, the friendly Lurcher will not be able to take up the post of watchdog.
Buy Lurcher: Price and Breeder
Buying a Lurcher takes a lot of research and patience in this country. It is not a recognized dog breed and therefore no breeders are registered. In its country of origin, Great Britain, puppies are offered for the equivalent of around 1,000 euros on average.
