Lurcher Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Lurcher is a type of dog rather than a breed, produced by crossing a sighthound, such as a Greyhound or Whippet, with another breed such as a collie or terrier. Lurchers are known for speed, intelligence and a gentle nature at home, and they are popular in the UK and Ireland.

Origins and appearance

The type is old and was used for poaching and hunting rabbits and hares, with the name possibly derived from an old word for lurk or steal. Lurchers vary widely in size and look, with a long head, long legs, a deep chest and a coat that ranges from short and smooth to rough, in many colors. Many look like rough or smooth Greyhounds.

Temperament

They are usually gentle, affectionate and calm indoors. They are sensitive. They have a strong chase instinct and may pursue small animals. They are intelligent and sometimes independent. They dislike being left alone and may be anxious if not exercised or settled.

Exercise

They need an hour or so of daily exercise, with walks and a chance to sprint in a secure area. Many are couch potatoes indoors. They need very secure fencing and a lead near roads.

Training

They are intelligent and sensitive. Use positive methods and early socialization. Recall can be unreliable because of chase drive, so use long lines and secure areas. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

Short coats need weekly brushing, and rough coats need more attention. See short coat dog grooming guide. Trim nails, clean ears and brush teeth. Many need a coat in cold weather.

Health considerations

Health depends on the parents. Topics include:

• Injuries, such as torn toes and muscle strains from sprinting
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Sensitivity to anesthesia, in sighthound lines, so tell your vet
• Heat and cold sensitivity. See heatstroke in dogs
• Dental disease. See dental disease in dogs

Living with a Lurcher

They suit calm, active owners with a secure yard. They do best with company. They are poorly suited to homes with small pets or owners who cannot provide secure exercise.

A typical day

A Lurcher wants a morning walk, a long nap, a sprint, family time and an evening outing. Many sleep for much of the day.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are lanky and bouncy. Begin socialization, handling and training early. Provide chew toys, and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food, coats, vet care and secure fencing. Many Lurchers are found in rescues. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They feel the cold and may overheat in hot weather. Provide coats, shade and water. They travel well when exercised.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include trusting the dog off lead, underexercising, leaving small pets unsupervised and skipping coats in winter.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about the parents, their temperaments and whether the dog has lived with small pets. Many Lurchers are adopted as adults, so spend time with the dog first.

Not one thing

Because Lurchers are crosses, there is no breed standard, and dogs vary widely. A Greyhound-collie cross may be different from a Whippet-terrier cross. Judge the individual dog, not the label.

Sprinters at heart

Most Lurchers need short bursts of speed rather than long runs. A secure field or fenced area lets them stretch out, and the rest of the day may be spent on the sofa. Always keep a lead near roads, because a fast dog can be gone in seconds.

Daily care checklist

• A walk and a chance to sprint in a secure area.
• Brushing and nail checks.
• A coat in cold weather.
• Training and recall practice on a long line.
• Company and a soft bed.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Lurcher suits calm, active owners who want a gentle, fast dog and can provide secure exercise. It may not suit homes with small pets. For a related breed, see the Greyhound.

The takeaway

Lurchers are fast, gentle and varied, and they need secure exercise, recall care and warmth.