The lurcher is anything but an unadulterated variety canine. Thus, intrigued people shouldn’t hope to see them recorded as one of the perceived varieties by one of the kennel clubs of note. Rather, a lurcher is the result of a relationship between a sighthound and some other sort of canine, with the most widely recognized models being either a terrier or a peaceful canine. Because of this, it should not shock discover that there can be noteworthy contrasts from lurcher to lurcher, however, it is essential to take note that there are a few shared traits to them also.
Just like doodles, Lurchers are a mixed-breed dog. We Love Doodles categorizes the doodle breed as one of the most diverse dog breeds; ranging from the smallest Havapoo to the sizeable Goldendoodle. Similarly, Lurchers can also be off a wide variety. It should not shock dog enthusiasts to discover that there can be noteworthy contrasts from lurcher to lurcher; however, it is essential to take note that there are a few shared traits to them also.
Further, we will move on to a list of some of the most interesting facts about lurchers. In this context, there is good news for you too. You can click here to read more about one-stop solution for all pet problems. Stuart is behind all the lovely information that you will find here, and nowhere else. He is himself a dog parent, and therefore understands the requirement of every other person who is or wants to bring a dog home in future.
Let’s just say that he is the best when it comes to facts about various dogs. Moreover, you can also read about how to take care of your paw-buddy in the best way. Besides, there are so many other details about how you can take care of your pet in an ideal way. So, let’s start.
History
The commoner’s steadfast resistance to give up his seat at the table is reflected in the history of the Lurcher. Greyhound ownership was forbidden by King Canute, who ruled England from 1016 to 1035 before the Norman invasion. Owning a Greyhound was restricted to the aristocracy only. A commoner who was caught hunting their dog in the forest would be fined and have their dog taken away. To prevent them from outrunning the king’s Greyhounds, dogs that lived within 10 miles of the forest had their tendons cut. Nearly 400 years passed before this law was finally repealed.
Peasants managed to covertly breed the lord of the land’s Greyhounds to their farm dogs so they could hunt. The progeny’s unkempt exterior concealed the mix’s royal heritage. The sighthound’s speed, hunting aptitude, and tranquil disposition combined with the working dog’s biddability to produce a superior hunting companion. Although this type of hunting has been prohibited in the United Kingdom since 2005, lurchers still descend from these working lines today. The hunt wasn’t so much for sport as it was to provide food for his human family.
Breeders in the US combine Whippets with Border Collies to produce a very quick and trainable dog that excels at the sport of Flyball, in which canine teams race through a course while releasing a tennis ball and returning it to their handler. The combination of a Greyhound, Labrador Retriever, Coonhound, or Pointer is referred to as an American Lurcher in some regions of the US. These dogs either engage in jackrabbit, fox, or raccoon hunting or engage in water and land-based racing. You should steer clear of dogs from breeders who raise their dogs to be coyote killers because dishonest breeders in other regions of the country blend Greyhounds with heavier breeds to run down and kill coyotes.
Interesting and fun facts about the lurcher breed of dogs
Here is a list from where you can check out some of the lesser-known facts about lurchers.
1. The origin of a lurcher is fabled
Apparently, the lurcher appeared in the early current time frame in light of a law that restricted the responsibility for both English and Scottish everyday people. Subsequently, said people reproduced lurchers to follow the letter if not the actual intent of the law. All things considered, it ought to be referenced this is only a tale, seeing as how there is no proof to recommend that such a law, that was passed in said timeframe. Indeed, the narratives can’t concede to whether the law was passed in the fourteenth, fifteenth, or the sixteenth century.
2. Better-known as a poacher’s dog
The lurcher had gained notoriety for being a poacher’s canine in the not all that removed past. Something that was promoted by the way that a ton of lurchers are equipped for chasing in relative quietness.
3. The name supports its reputation
Said notoriety is bolstered by the lurcher’s name, which has various possible clarifications. For instance, one potential clarification is that it joins a Romani word for a cheat with a not exactly complimentary word for a canine of blended varieties. In like manner, another conceivable clarification is that lurcher is actually what it seems like, seeing as how that word could be utilized to allude to prowlers just as frivolous hoodlums in the not all that far off past.
4. Requirement of sighthound for breeding
Said notoriety is bolstered by the lurcher’s name, which has various possible clarifications. For instance, one potential clarification is that it joins a Romani word for a cheat with a not exactly complimentary word for a canine of blended varieties. In like manner, another conceivable clarification is that lurcher is actually what it seems like, seeing as how that word could be utilized to allude to prowlers just as frivolous hoodlums in the not all that far off past.
5. Hunting capabilities
Maybe obviously, this implies most lurchers are reared for their chasing abilities. All things considered, distinctive sighthounds reproduced with various canine varieties produce various lurchers, implying that they can see different uses, for example, dashing and bait flowing too.
6. British popularity
As of now, lurchers are generally basic in Britain, which should not shock anyone thinking about their alleged roots. Be that as it may, there is a populace of lurchers that can be found in North America also, enough so that there is an enrolling body in the said area for them.
7. Great family dogs
In present-day times, lurchers have figured out how to secure decent notoriety with some canine proprietors for being acceptable family canines. This is on the grounds that a ton of them consolidate a sharp insight with a quiet mien just as a decent lot of warmth for their relatives.
8. Lurchers require socialization
All things considered, great socialization is basic, implying that individuals who need to claim a lurcher need to ensure that their canine gets a lot of socialization since the beginning. This is basic for forestalling the beginning of either bashfulness or hostility, neither of which are attractive characteristics.
9. Healthier than other breeds
As a rule, the lurcher is viewed as one of the more advantageous crosses out there. Tragically, nothing is ensured, especially since lurchers can have such a wide scope of foundations. Because of this, canine proprietors need to ensure that their lurchers have been assessed for a wide scope of likely issues, especially in the event that they are plummeted from a variety that is known for something dangerous specifically.
Lurcher is Characterized By…
Since lurchers are a cross between any sighthound, they can really be of any size. For instance, the lurcher in a hybrid between a greyhound and a whippet would likely be smaller than a tiny greyhound, whereas the lurcher in a mix between an Irish wolfhound and a Saluk would be significantly larger. The typical lurcher has long legs, a deep chest for better lung capacity, small, high-set ears, and a distinct muzzle. It is slim and athletic. Because of the Collie crossings, the Lurcher’s coat tends to be longer than that of a Greyhound. Although a Long-Haired and a Short-Haired variant are recognized, there is no breed standard when it comes to coat color because there is no standard breed pairing. There are different levels of shedding in Lurchers; some shed more than others.
The Average Lurcher
Contrary to what many people think, the lurcher is a friendly, laid-back breed with a mellow temperament that appreciates routine human contact. Similar to the Greyhound, the Lurcher is gentle and dependable to its owners rather than aggressive or highly stressed. The breed is low maintenance and a wonderful addition to any home when introduced to kids and other house pets gradually. Despite differences between both genders, the typical Lurcher weighs between 27 and 32 kg and has a lifespan of about 12 to 15 years.
Weakness
The Lurcher is a breed that requires relatively little upkeep to maintain maximum health because they are often very healthy and long-lived. Nevertheless, there are documented instances of muscle and joint damage, as well as more serious occurrences of bone cancer and stomach torsion, in the breed of Lurcher, thus it is not entirely free from medical ailment.
Dog Training
Dog training is something we can’t stress enough for lurchers. By this, we mean regular, weekly lessons where you learn as you go along, beginning with the fundamentals. It’s not just a matter of getting your dog pawing at you. The goal is to strengthen your relationship with your dog while also teaching him or her to respect you. The majority of teething issues will be resolved in regular sessions. Most of the time, we don’t suggest a behaviorist because their services are typically one-time only and don’t provide socialization.
Exercise Requirements
Lurchers make excellent companions because they like social interaction. They are most suited for busy households, although if given enough activity, they can become fairly lazy within the home. Lurchers appear to enjoy sleeping in a warm, cozy place inside the home. Ideally on the couch or your bed.
They do not enjoy being left alone, like other dogs, therefore are not appropriate if you work full-time. Unless you have other canines and reliable alternatives for puppy daycare. They typically like the companionship of dogs. Given their greater endurance than greyhounds, they generally require much more exercise. Nevertheless, depending on the type of cross, this could vary greatly. Do not mistakenly believe a lurcher or whippet to be a little dog. They are not a more affordable or compact choice.
Regardless of the weather, you will need to walk the lurchers every day and devote extra time to their exercise. The specific dog will determine how much. We strongly advise you to enroll your pet lurcher in training lessons because most lurchers will like them.
Nutrition
Growing puppies consume more food than older dogs. Use the feeding schedule recommended on the food package, but pick puppy food made for large breed dogs. These formulations reduce the possibility of musculoskeletal issues brought on by rapid growth, such as joint dysplasia.
Your dog may consume between two and four cups of dry dog food per day as an adult, depending on his level of activity. At the puppy and adult stages, a large breed dog kibble would be a wise choice. If your dog is not maintaining a healthy weight or you think he could have food allergies, consult a veterinarian. You might be able to give lurchers food at will because they are not typically gluttons. Keep an eye on his daily intake and physical health.
Commercial dog food frequently contains the allergens wheat, gluten, eggs, soy, beef, chicken, and lamb. Dogs with food allergies may experience itchy skin in addition to digestive problems. As your dog’s skin recovers, your veterinarian could advise a diet devoid of the most common allergies. Find out which brands and dosages your veterinarian suggests. You ought to be able to locate a mixture that keeps your friend healthy and content at a price you can tolerate.
Long-term costs may be lower if you feed the highest quality food you can afford rather than economizing by using a lower-quality brand of kibble. Look especially for a large breed formula that corresponds to his age in order to maintain this big guy healthy and minimize hazards related to his size and body type. His dietary requirements will be satisfied by a high-quality kibble that contains meat protein, fiber, good carbohydrates, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. You won’t need to take as many expensive supplements.
Lurchers – On and Off The Lead
Because they are sighthounds, lurchers have typically been trained to chase tiny, fuzzy animals if they come from a working background. Until you are satisfied that your dog will always come back to you on command, you must keep a lurcher on a lead when you are outside. Additionally, you must confirm that it won’t chase other people’s little animals. Your dog will quickly figure out which side of the table you are on with love and patience, and he will then just want to please you.
We cannot emphasize enough how crucial dog training sessions are, particularly for lurchers. They must be free of the leash, and taking dog training classes will not only improve your dog’s recall but also his or her behavior with other dogs. Dog training programs are available for a low cost and are held in many village and church halls across the UK. Ask your veterinarian or a nearby pet store where classes are held if you’re unsure.
Lurcher Temperament
Depending on the sort of cross your Lurcher has, temperament can differ. Some Lurchers have temperaments that are affected by other breeds including herding types and terrier breeds, while others have temperaments that are extremely similar to purebred sight-hounds like the Greyhound. No lurcher breed standard exists.
Size
The size of a specific pup will vary on the parent breeds because the Lurcher is a sight-hound crossed with another working breed (and the parents may also be crosses). In general, lurchers are medium-sized to large dogs with light bodies. Regardless of the cross, lurchers are often lanky, deep-chested dogs.
Whippets are at the smaller end of the Sight-hound size spectrum, which is employed in the Lurcher cross. Whippets have a shoulder height that reaches about twenty-two inches. Irish wolfhounds are sight-hounds as well, and males must be at least 32 inches tall. Lurchers can range in height from twenty to nearly thirty inches, depending on whether they are herding, sports, or terrier types, which can also differ significantly.
Coat And Colors
Because there are so many different crossings, lurchers’ coats and colors are unpredictable. While Salukis and Afghans have thick coats, short-haired dogs like the Greyhound and Whippet are extremely smooth. Terriers may have rough coats and Border Collies have smooth coats on the other side of the blend. There is a Lurcher for you if the coat type and level of shedding suit your lifestyle.
There are many different colors, however, the color of the pups will depend on the parent breeds. Coat colors may not breed exactly since Lurchers can come from purebred to purebred crosses or Lurcher to Lurcher crosses. Grizzled, black, tan, or black and tan Lurchers are rather common.
Grooming
Your Lurcher will shed more than usual when the seasons change, so you should brush them more frequently. He might go days without being brushed for the remainder of the year, but around spring and fall, give him a quick once-over with the appropriate brush for his coat type to reduce shed hairs. He’ll think you’re just patting him, but by encouraging the creation of natural oils and dispersing them through his haircoat, you’ll enhance the health of his skin.
Pick your grooming supplies wisely. If you have a smooth-coated Lurcher, you can groom him using horsehair because of his short, slick hair. A rubber grooming glove, hound mitt, or curry encourages the skin’s natural oil production. Brush him with a soft bristle brush in short, fast strokes in the direction of the hair’s growth after the initial curry loosens hairs and distributes oils throughout his coat, and he’ll sparkle with health. An undercoat rake can prevent matting and remove any undercoat during seasonal shedding if you have a rough or broken coated Lurcher.
Lurcher as Pets
Because they make excellent family dogs, lurchers are more popular nowadays. They typically get along well with kids and are kind, caring, extremely affectionate, and loyal. There are always a number of adorable lurchers looking for homes.
As long as you are willing to travel to us, we rehome dogs all throughout the UK.
Types of Lurcher Dogs
1. Greyhound lurcher – a greyhound-greyhound mix, such as one with a Border Collie or Labrador Retriever.
2. Whippet lurcher – a mix of a whippet and another breed, like a Beagle or Jack Russell Terrier.
3. Saluki lurcher – a Saluki-to-another-breed hybrid, such as a German Shepherd or Rottweiler.
4. Deerhound lurcher – a Scottish Deerhound and another breed, like a Boxer or Staffordshire Bull Terrier, are crossed.
5. Bedlingkot lurcher – a hybridized Bedlington Terrier, often with a Greyhound or Whippet as the parent breed.
These are only a few of the numerous varieties of lurcher dogs that exist. Before making the decision to bring a lurcher into your home, it is important to complete your homework as each breed will have particular qualities and personality traits that are all their own.
Conclusion
A unique and interesting breed of dog, lurchers make great family pets. Lurchers, which are a mix between a sighthound and another breed, come in a wide range of sizes, looks, and personalities. The extraordinary speed and agility of lurchers, their intelligence and trainability, as well as their devoted and loving nature, are some fascinating traits to learn about.
Hope you enjoyed the above facts!