Lurcher
The Lurcher is not a recognised pedigree breed but rather a working dog type created by crossing a sighthound, typically a Greyhound, Whippet, or Saluki, with a herding breed or terrier.
This intentional combination has been refined over centuries by hunters and travellers seeking a versatile companion capable of spotting, chasing, and retrieving game across varied terrain.
25-34kg
Weight
12-15yrs
Lifespan
About the Lurcher
The result is a dog that combines the speed and stamina of its sighthound heritage with the intelligence and trainability of its working-breed ancestry. Physically, Lurchers vary considerably depending on their parentage, though most are lean and athletic dogs standing 51–61 centimetres tall and weighing 25–34 kilograms. Their coats range from smooth to rough and appear in numerous colours. In temperament, they are notably gentle and affectionate, displaying calm, dignified behaviour indoors whilst remaining alert and responsive to their surroundings. Lurchers are generally excellent with people of all ages and often socialise well with other dogs, though their strong prey drive necessitates secure fencing. With a typical lifespan of 12–15 years, they make devoted family companions when provided with adequate exercise and mental stimulation. Many Lurchers are available through rescue organisations, offering prospective owners the chance to welcome an exceptional dog into their home.
Lurcher at a Glance
- Weight
- 25–34 kg
- Height
- 51–61 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Typical price
- £200–£400
Lurcher Characteristics
The Lurcher needs substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay settled and responds brilliantly to positive reinforcement. They love children and tend to get on brilliantly with them, but are fine alone for moderate amounts of time. The coat is fairly easy to maintain with regular brushing and sheds a fair amount but nothing unmanageable. They are a highly intelligent breed that needs mental stimulation as well as physical exercise.
Lurcher Pros & Cons
Pros
- Highly adaptable, settling well into both working and family environments
- Loyal and affectionate, with a calm warmth towards their family
- Athletic and agile, with impressive speed and stamina when given the chance to stretch out
- Generally low-maintenance coat with only moderate grooming required
Cons
- A strong prey drive means secure fencing and careful supervision outdoors are essential
- Better suited to experienced owners who are familiar with the training demands of sighthound crosses
- Can become anxious when left alone for too long
- Needs a generous amount of daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay content
