Over the past few years, we have had a significant increase in lurcher-type dogs being found as strays or abandoned, and this is likely linked to illegal hunting practices. Illegal hunting activities such as hare coursing and lamping are forms of poaching where dogs are used to chase and kill.
Fact: Lurchers are incredibly rewarding companions for those who take the time to understand their unique needs.
With patience, structure and a lot of love, these beautiful dogs have the potential to thrive in a home environment and become deeply devoted members of the family. Every small step they take in their new life is a victory – and a testament to their resilience. If you adopt, you really will be transforming their lives as well as enriching your own.
LIFESPAN & HEALTH: Did you know the Lurcher lifespan is very high for a large dog, around 12 – 15 years. This depends on diet and exercise, as the Lurcher is an athletic animal with a high metabolism and will need to be fed well.
Digestive issues can get out of hand as Lurchers may eat extremely quickly after exercise which can frequently lead to bloating and vomiting. (We suggest you don’t feed within an hour before or after exercise helps). To help prevent this, it might be a good idea to use a slow feeding bowl or snuffle mat to slow the rate of food consumption. For an active high-energy dog, Lurchers suffer from surprisingly few joint and muscle complications, though arthritis is inevitable in later years.
WAYS TO CHANNEL THEIR ENERGY: Booking a secure paddock for off-lead exercise time is a wonderful way to start bonding with your lurcher. It gives them the chance to demonstrate their athletic nature and show off their ‘zoomies’! With space to stretch their legs and some mental stimulation such as training or play sessions, they will usually snooze for the rest of the day. Lurchers are often nicknamed ‘couch potatoes’ because, whilst loving a run around, they are equally a very big fan of snoozing during the day, especially if there is a comfy bed or sofa to curl up on.
Obviously, an older Lurcher would not need or want to be running around and will be quite happy to have a nice walk in the park where they can have a good sniff of the grass and trees.
UNDERSTANDING AFFECTION: Not all lurchers have had regular human interaction, so affection may feel new to them. Some might become overexcited when shown attention, while others may be shy or unsure at first. Letting them set the pace and respecting their boundaries goes a long way in building trust and connection.
For some dogs, it is Important that they are given a quiet space of their own to relax and sleep. They will soon come over for a fuss and cuddle when they want to.
IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A LONG-LEGGED FRIEND, PLEASE CONSIDER ONE OF US, WHO ARE LOOKING TO BE YOUR PERFECT COMPANION AND FAMILY MEMBER.
STAN: 8 yrs old Lurcher/Staffie Cross. I have been with ARC for over 6 years now. This might be due to it taking me a while to trust people, I don’t know ☹. But once I do, I love a little fuss. I do need to have my own space e.g. Kennel or separate room, as I like to be left alone to have a nap or have some “me time”. Don’t worry, I will soon come over for a fuss and gentle stroke. 😊
MR. FOX: 6.5 yr old Lurcher. I came into ARC from another rescue 8 months ago, as they no longer had the space for me ☹ . I love to lean into you for a cuddle, as I am very affectionate 😊. I can get a bit excited on walks and do a hop & skip. I can be a bit reactive to other dogs, so you need to bear that in mind whilst out on walks.
BEAR: Just over 1 year old female Lurcher, I came into ARC 6 months ago☹ I’m a lively girl who can play a bit too much for some other dogs. I love chasing ball and meeting people and other dogs. I have a lot of energy, so need someone who can give me lots of time and stimulation. Once I have had a good walk, I love nothing better than to cuddle on a comfy lap😊
ZEUS: I am a 10 months old Lurcher Cross and I came in with my brother two months ago, as we were rescued from a flat full of dogs!
I need someone with time, patience and who can offer me lots of TLC, as I need to learn to be a pup as unsure about a lot of things😊
DASH: I am an estimated 2-year-old Lurcher, who was found as a stray and brought into ARC last month☹. I am a very tall and handsome boy with a very sweet nature😊. I’m strong and energetic with a big heart. I could live with children over 10 years but no small animals as I have a strong prey drive.
Stan
Zeus
The animals that come into ARC, come in all shapes, sizes and ages, so check out our Rehoming tab on our website for the latest animals looking for their forever loving home.
If you are interested in meeting any of these animals, please give us a call on: 01279 501547 to book an appointment.
