COAT:
The Lurcher’s coat type is variable. It ranges from short and smooth like that of a Greyhound, to slightly longer and thicker like that of a Collie, to the extreme rough and broken like that of a border terrier. The coat is dependent on the cross breeding involved in producing the ‘ purpose ‘ bred Lurchers.
HEIGHT:
Various, depending on the breeding.
WEIGHT: Also depends on height and breeding.
LIFESPAN: Approximately 10 − 15yrs.
TEMPERAMENT:
Dependent on the parental influences in breeding, but generally, Lurchers are highly regarded as having excellent temperaments. Affectionate, calm and loyal, they are considered wonderful family pets and companions. They crave the company of humans and should not be left outside all day as they need be around the family. Lurchers require only average exercise and are usually happy lazing around the house. Very good with children, they are not necessarily good with other pets as sighthounds were bred to hunt and kill prey (such as Rabbits etc). They can run at an amazing 40 miles per hour! As with all dogs, early socialisation is important.
CLASS:
Considered a hybrid by the Kennel Club and therefor a ‘ type ‘, rather than a specific breed.
HEALTH:
Unlike many ‘ developed dogs ‘, the Lurcher suffers from very few health issues. Anaesthesia and sensitivity to drugs is one concern but does not mean that your Lurcher will develop any particular problem.
HISTORY:
The Lurcher was originally a cross between a Collie and a Greyhound, although generally between any sighthound and a terrier or member of the pastoral group of dogs. It dates back to the 17th century when it was bred by British and Irish travelers to hunt hare, rabbit, and game birds. Believed to have originated in Ireland, they were used for poaching and bred to produce intelligence and speed.
Viewpoint of dogs owners, Curtis & Carl.
We first got Molly back in 2011 from the Dogs Trust where she was a nervous and delicate dog. She had 4 puppies who took all the goodness out of her but the puppies were all rehomed. She was left in the Dogs Trust for just over 5 months before we came and found her. We were at a Dogs Trust open day when one of the colleagues there said to us “I have the perfect addition to your family” At the time we already had 2 greyhounds from the Dogs Trust so we were heavily invested in the well being of these dogs. When we saw her she looked small and weak but still beautiful. With a dull black and white coat she looked up at us knowingly so. We agreed to take Molly from that moment and she’s been with us ever since. Now her coat shines, she put on weight and looks stunning. She is well trained and loves to be social, and can do all the tricks! Molly is the queen of the castle as our other greyhounds have passed on, she loves to be cuddled and is fantastic with the kids up at the rugby club so she can go everywhere and anywhere with us.
Next month’s breed is the Red Setter. Is your pet a prime example of the breed or maybe just an aspiring model? If you would like your dog to be the star of next month’s column please email or post a photo of your Red Setter along with your contact details to:
pets@yorkshirereporter.co.uk or write to Yorkshire Reporter PO Box 352 Leeds LS14 9FU.
