Lurcher Complete Breed Guide

The Lurcher is a mixed sighthound breed with a diverse personality. These speedy and smart dogs are primarily used as hunters. Their favorite activity in the whole world is chasing, so cats and small animals should be kept safe, as they don’t stand a chance in a footrace with these dogs.

Lurchers are sighthounds mixed with a herder, terrier, and/or large scenthound. The result is an incredibly fast, incredibly intelligent dog that’s known as a keen hunter. This breed is primarily used for hunting, but they’re becoming more popular in sports that require speed and agility. Lurchers will dart off at a moment’s notice and have a strong prey drive, so it’s important to give them a home with lots of room, a fenced yard, and no cats or critters that they could accidentally catch. Although these pups love being outdoors, they’re surprisingly social and need to be around people just as much as they need space.

Lifestyle & Living Conditions

Lurchers can get along with children and other dogs, but they are not the best choice for families and homes with lots of animals. In fact, they can be downright dangerous around cats because they view them as prey instead of friends. Lurchers should live in a home setting, not an apartment or condo, and be given plenty of space to enjoy the great outdoors. However, they prefer to live indoors, where they can be around people.

Exercise & Activity

The Lurcher has the typical sighthound affinity for chasing. They need lots of exercise but prefer to run in short spurts rather than long distances. This breed also enjoys a long walk each day or playtime outside. Just be sure to keep them on a leash or in a fenced area, as they’ll take the first opportunity to run after a little critter.

The Lurcher is like most sighthounds: calm yet loves to chase, affectionate yet not clingy, and a people-lover yet far from a cuddly companion. These dogs are smart and learn quickly. They could become shy or aggressive, but providing training and socialization early on helps them get along with people and other animals.

Because of the Lurcher’s mixed background, their coats can vary in texture and color. Their fur could be smooth or rough, and they come in a variety of colors. One of the benefits of this breed is their minimal grooming needs. Brushing them weekly is all they need to keep their coat clean and healthy.