In 17th century, the Irish Gypsies and Tinkers roamed parts of Great Britain and Ireland together with their most prized companion, the Lurcher. The Lurcher is not a breed but rather just a type of dog. This creature is the result of several crossings between the sighthound and other breeds such as the Collie, Terrier and Greyhound.

Originally, this dog was used as poachers of rabbits, hares and other small animals. Actually, the name Lurcher is derived from the Roman word lur, meaning thief. During these times, this dog became popular and has been adopted even by well-off families of Britain and Ireland.

The Lurcher is composed of three fourths sighthound, although it can also vary, and one fourth other breeds. The combination of the Lurcher can be Greyhound/Collie or Greyhound/Terrier. However, a Lurcher that is the same size and build as a Greyhound is much favored.

There is no set size for the Lurcher and so it can come out looking small as a Whippet or as big as a Deerhound. The coat can also vary depending on which breed was used for crossing. The coat can be short and smooth like the Greyhound, long and thick like Collie, and coarse and broken like the Terrier.

The Lurcher possesses an undercoat that thickens during the winter and it can shed heavily or lightly, too. The legs of the Lurcher are long and straight while its chest is deep providing a better lung capability to the dog. There is no standard color for this dog since it will vary greatly on the sighthound used for breeding.

There is no fixed temperament for the Lurcher too because it also varies depending on breeds used for crossing. Some Lurchers may have temperaments similar to a Greyhound and there are some that have temperaments like that of the herding breeds or terrier breeds. Most Lurchers, however, possess strong hunting instincts that they got mostly from the sighthhounds.

The Lurcher is a dog that loves to have fun, is affectionate to people and loves the attention of the master. It is an amendable dog, fast learner and highly trainable. It loves activities outdoors therefore it will strive well in a family that is active, too.

Being confined in an apartment will not suit the Lurcher because it needs to be outside and be active often. It needs daily walks and running everyday that’s why a house with a wide yard is ideal. This dog will always want to chase and catch small animals and run freely so keep him in a fenced area all the time.