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Lurcher Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Lurcher so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Hunting Dogs
Popularity Rank505
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Lurcher dog profile picture
OriginUnited Kingdom flagUnited Kingdom
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Lurcher known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
Poacher's DogLong Haired Lurcher
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Lurcher? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Cross Breed

Lurcher Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Lurcher? Learn how big the Lurcher breed typically grows.
Large
Weight Statistics
How much does a Lurcher weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Lurcher breed.
60-70 pounds (27-32 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Lurcher?
65 pounds (29.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Lurcher? Lurcher height:
22-28 inches (55-71 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Lurcher?
25 inches (63 cm)

Lurcher Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Lurcher puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Lurcher costs.
$600-$800
If you choose to purchase the Lurcher, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Lurcher for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Lurcher gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Lurcher? How many Lurcher are there in the world?
Rare: You may rarely see each other in everyday life, but you might catch a glimpse of each other at dog shows.

There are very few of them, and there have been times when they have almost drifted to the brink of extinction, so few are left.

Lurcher Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Lurcher? Discover the Lurcher's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one. Keep in mind that if you want to teach them any tricks, they understand and memorize new commands in 40-80 repetitions. Lurcher obey the first command 30% of the time or better. So if you want to have a smart dog, you might have to reconsider your choice with this breed.

The Lurcher ranks below average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Lurcher? Learn about the Lurcher's trainability and response to training methods.
Lurcher dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Lurcher as a watchdog? Learn about the Lurcher's alertness and guarding instincts.
Lurcher dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Lurcher dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Territorial Protection
Is a Lurcher protective of its territory? Learn about the Lurcher's guarding instincts and behavior.
Lurcher dogs strongly protect their territory. This breed is a complete security guard, so you don't have to be afraid in case of danger.

Lurcher Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Lurcher have? Learn about characteristic Lurcher temperament and behavior traits.
FunnyLovingAffectionate
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Lurcher sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Lurcher dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Lurcher a good family dog?
High: Lurcher dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Poacher's Dog need? Lurcher social needs:
Lurcher dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Lurcher to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Lurcher roam?
The wanderlust potential of the Lurcher is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Lurcher have high prey drive?
Lurcher dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something. Cats or any other small animals are in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Lurcher dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Lurcher Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Lurcher bark a lot? Learn about typical Lurcher vocalization patterns and triggers.
Average: The Lurcher barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Lurcher? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Lurcher breed.
Average: Lurchers, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Lurcher live in an apartment? Learn about the Lurcher's suitability for apartment living.
Not an apartment-friendly dog the Lurcher breed. If you don't have a garden, think carefully about your decision, keeping Lurcher indoors can cause a lot of problems.

Lurcher Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Lurcher to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Lurcher's flexibility to new situations.
Average: Lurcher dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Lurcher be left alone? Learn about the Lurcher's tolerance to solitude.
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Lurcher Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Lurcher biting potential? Learn about the Lurcher's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Lurcher has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Lurcher mouthy? Learn about the Lurcher's tendency to use mouth during play.
Lurcher dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Lurcher dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Lurcher bite? Learn about the Lurcher's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Lurcher bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Lurcher measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Lurcher is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Lurcher bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Lurcher bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Lurcher puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Lurcher, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Lurcher bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Lurcher can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Lurcher Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Lurcher live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Lurcher breed.
12-14 years
The average lifespan of Lurcher: 13 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Lurcher handle different weather? Learn about the Lurcher's climate adaptability.
Prefers average to warm weather conditions
Different dogs have different preferences when it comes to weather conditions. However, in general, most dogs prefer average to warm weather conditions, as they typically find hot weather conditions to be uncomfortable and taxing.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Lurcher? Discover typical conditions affecting the Lurcher breed.
The Lurcher is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Lurcher need vet visits? Learn about the Lurcher's veterinary care requirements.
Average
The Lurcher should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Lurcher breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Lurcher breed? Most common health risks of Lurcher:
Bloat

Lurcher Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Lurcher? Understand daily activity needs of the Lurcher breed.
Lurcher dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Lurcher need? How much exercise do Lurcher dogs require per day?

Do Lurcher dogs need a lot of exercises?

Lurcher dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Lurcher breed need?
Lurcher dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.

Lurcher Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Lurcher prone to weight gain? Learn about the Lurcher's obesity risks.
Low to Average: The Lurcher has a low to the average risk for obesity. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Lurcher weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Lurcher need daily? Learn about the Lurcher's feeding requirements.
2.5 to 3.5 cups of a high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals.

Lurcher Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Lurcher hypoallergenic? Learn about the Lurcher's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Lurcher dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Lurcher come in? Discover all possible Lurcher color variations.
Any
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Lurcher need? Learn about Lurcher coat maintenance requirements.
Average: The Lurcher requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Lurcher, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Drooling Tendency
Does a Lurcher drool a lot? Learn about the Lurcher's drooling habits.
The Lurcher is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency. If you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, the Lurcher could be a good choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool less than others, just like the Lurcher.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Lurcher smell bad? Learn about the Lurcher's natural odor levels.

Low 🔽

The Lurcher has a low chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Lurcher have? Learn about the Lurcher's fur characteristics.
ThickSmoothStraight
Bathing Needs
How often does a Lurcher need baths? Learn about the Lurcher's bathing requirements.
6-8 weeks
Rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

For example, short-haired dog breeds can go a very long time in between baths. These short-haired breeds shed regularly and that shedding works to naturally remove excess dirt and oil. So unless your weenie dog got into the garbage can, you can probably hold off on a bath for a while.

Shedding Level
How much do Lurcher dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Poacher's Dog? Do Lurcher dogs shed a lot?
Lurcher dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.

Lurcher Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Lurcher good with children? Learn about the Lurcher's behavior around kids of different ages.
Lurcher dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Lurcher get along with other pets? Discover the Lurcher's compatibility with other animals.
Lurcher dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Lurcher temperament with other people:
Lurcher dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Cat Friendly
How well do Lurcher dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Lurcher breed live with a cat?
Lurcher dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Lurcher good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Lurcher dogs get along with other dogs?
Lurcher dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Lurcher is not a good choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Lurcher breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Lurcher breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Lurcher dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Lurcher dogs good office canines? Do Lurcher dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Lurcher is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Lurcher dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Poacher's Dog temperament with senior people? Are Lurcher dogs good for elderly owners?
Lurchers are usually recommended for elderly people.

Lurcher As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Lurcher be a service dog? Learn about the Lurcher's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Lurcher is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Lurcher good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Lurcher's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Lurcher is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Lurcher good at detection work? Learn about the Lurcher's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Lurcher is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Lurcher do search and rescue? Learn about the Lurcher's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Lurcher is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Lurcher good on boats? Learn about the Lurcher's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Lurcher breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Lurcher pull carts? Learn about the Lurcher's drafting abilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Lurcher is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Lurcher used in military service? Learn about the Lurcher's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Lurcher Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Lurcher usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
3-5 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Lurcher pregnant? Learn about the Lurcher's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Lurcher: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Lurcher have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Lurcher Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Lurcher in? Learn about the Lurcher's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Lurcher in? Learn about the Lurcher's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.
Kennel Club Recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize a Lurcher? Learn about the Lurcher's official recognition.
Dog Registry of America Inc.

Lurcher Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Drooling Tendency: The Lurcher is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency.
  • Stinkiness Rating: The Lurcher has a low chance of bad smell.
  • Obesity Tendency: Low to Average: The Lurcher has a low to the average risk for obesity.
  • Watchdog Rating: Lurcher dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Mouthing Tendency: Lurcher dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Child Compatibility: Lurcher dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Lurchers are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Lurcher dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Intelligence Rating: Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
  • Allergy Friendliness: Lurcher dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Adaptability: Not an apartment-friendly dog the Lurcher breed.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Lurcher is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Dog Friendly: Lurcher dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Lurcher is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Rate The Lurcher Breed

Lurcher Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Avery MacDonald

    Jul 7, 2024, 12:29:32 PM:

    Lurches are amazing family pets if they are trained correctly they have amazing personalities and they love their walks