Description of a Lurcher

A Lurcher (me)

A Lurcher is the result of crossing a 'Sighthound' with another type of dog. They were originally bred for hunting rabbits, hares and foxes. They have been used for this purpose for centuries, and were often unfairly associated with a 'roguish' type of figure, and illicit hunting. The image of 'The Poachers Dog' still lingers today. In fact Lur is an ancient Romany word meaning thief; which probably explains how they came to have their name. Historically Greyhounds were crossed with a herding type of dog, that being all that was available at that time.

Legends and folklore of the 18th century tell of a truly amazing beast - a dog that was brave, bold, cunning, loyal, fast, trainable and very adept at scent hunting. Anyone who has owned a Lurcher will attest that these traits have survived in strength. Greyhound X Collie is a very popular Lurcher, but there are many different crosses and multiples of crosses, which breed superb dogs.

Lurchers have their own club, and Lurcher shows are held around Britain, and a few overseas. As well as show classes, obedience and racing are often part of these shows as well. They are a superb dog, and make ideal pets. They are very adaptable, being suitable for most dog related activities, as well as being excellent working dogs for hunting. They are very laid back animals, often putting up with life's quirks without complaint. They are as happy with a 10-minute walk round the block, as a 10-mile treck across the moors.

As anyone who has owned a Lurcher will tell you, they are probably not suitable for the novice dog handler. They're loveable, but quirky nature could quickly leave the novice in trouble or tears. The urge to chase small game is still uppermost in the minds of most, and a cat spotted with their excellent sight can have them disappear from you side in a flash. This has been the downfall of many when they run over the road in front of traffic, so being attached by a lead when near roads is almost mandatory.

At times they have a mind of their own, which no amount of persuasion, or firm handling will change. Their high metabolism, while usually maintaining their slim build; also gives them a ravenous appetite, and the slightest lapse of concentration by the owner will usually result in a meal of whatever is to hand; often disgusting, and sometimes dangerous.

A view of the Lurcher is of a magnificent beast, with its sleek silhouette seen disappearing after prey across the moor in the moonlight. A more realistic one is seeing it's sleek silhouette disappearing down the bottom of the garden with the pork-chop it has just stolen from your unattended dinner-plate in his mouth.

A Racing Lurcher (me)