Size depends heavily on which sighthound and which other breed are in the mix. Purina UK gives 12-30 kg; Dogtime gives 50-85 lb (about 23-39 kg), reflecting larger Greyhound-based types.
A lean, long-legged sighthound shape is typical, but the coat can be anything from sleek and short to rough, wiry or longer and flowing, depending on the non-sighthound parent.321
Because the parents differ so much, personalities vary, but lurchers are usually loyal, bright and affectionate, pairing sighthound speed with the brains of a working breed. Many are calm and relaxed indoors once they have had a good run, and they tend to love chasing things that move.321
Daily activity how busy a day looks
High. Plan on 1 to 2 hours of exercise a day, with regular chances to sprint off-lead in a safely enclosed area several times a week. Lure coursing is a great outlet.321
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Smooth coats need a weekly brush. Wiry, rough or longer coats need more frequent grooming, and softer or woolly coats may need daily brushing to stay tangle-free.32
Home where they are happiest
Does not need a big house, but the garden should be very securely fenced because lurchers are agile and good at finding a way out.32
Company who they like around
Usually good with people and, with early socialisation, other dogs. Their chasing instinct means care is needed around small pets. Positive, reward-based training works best, and play can be a better reward than treats.32
The story where it all began
The word 'lurcher' has been used for crossbred dogs since at least 1668 and comes from 'lurch', an old variant of 'lurk'. When English law restricted sighthound ownership to the wealthy, ordinary people crossed sighthounds with herding or terrier breeds, giving a hunting dog that did not look like a greyhound. They were long linked with poaching rabbits and hares; today most are family companions and sporting dogs.13
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
The name is recorded from 1668 and comes from 'lurch', meaning to lurk or steal about.1
2
A sighthound crossed with another sighthound is called a longdog rather than a lurcher.3
Many lurchers take part in lure coursing and dog racing.1
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The term 'lurcher' is an old English word for a crossbred dog, first used with this meaning in 1668, and is considered to be derived from the verb 'lurch', a variant of 'lurk', meaning to lurk or steal.1
I wake up, stretch, and give my human a nudge. We head to the field, I sprint after a rabbit-shaped shadow, just for fun. Back home, I curl on the sofa, dozing. After lunch, we play chase with a ball. I love the feeling of running fast. In the evening, I rest my head on a lap, content. It's a good day: a run, a cuddle, and a full heart.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
Major kennel clubs
Not a breed; 'lurcher' is a general name for a varied group of sighthound crosses, so major kennel clubs do not register it.1
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Lurcher, and at what times?
Feed your adult Lurcher at least two meals a day, as their stomach empties within a few hours. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.4
What should a Lurcher eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food suitable for their age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Never give raw meat, eggs, or bones.5
How often should I bathe a Lurcher?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks, but you can bathe more often if they get dirty. At least once every three months is fine, using a dog-safe shampoo.6Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Lurcher need brushing?
Smooth-coated Lurchers need a weekly brush, while wiry or longer coats need more frequent grooming. Softer coats may need daily brushing to prevent tangles.32Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Lurcher's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every four weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain and bleeding.6Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Lurcher need?
Plan for 1 to 2 hours of exercise daily, with regular chances to sprint off-lead in a secure area. Lure coursing is a great outlet for their chasing instinct.321Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Lurcher's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste, ideally daily. Check ears every two weeks, wiping the outer part only, and never push anything into the ear canal.6Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Lurcher live?
Lurchers typically live between 12 and 15 years, bringing you many happy years of companionship.32
Is a Lurcher good with children and other pets?
Yes, they are usually good with people and, with early socialisation, other dogs. However, their chasing instinct means care is needed around small pets like cats or rabbits.32
Can a Lurcher be left alone?
This varies by individual dog. With proper training and enrichment, some can be left for reasonable periods, but they thrive on company. For specific advice, ask a good breeder or your vet.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Greyhound
Whippet
Saluki