The lurcher is a type of dog, rather than a breed. Lurchers are typically a crossbetween a sighthound and another breed. Collie crosses are popular usually as it brings the benefit of intelligence and working instinct of the sheepdog to the strength and speed of the sighthound, creating a fast and adept hunting dog. Some terrier breeds are also popular crosses, and offer great tenacity and hunting instincts.

Because lurchers are crossbreeds, there are no set types or breed standards. Lurchers can be as small as a whippet, or as large as and powerful as a deerhound. Most lurchers are a similar size to that of a greyhound, as this offers the most versatility in the field.

The infinite variety of crossbreeds means that the appearance, coat type and colouring vary significantly. Coat types range from short and smooth like that of a greyhound, to slightly longer and thicker like that of a collie, to rough and broken like that of a terrier.

Many lurchers have temperaments that are very similar to purebred sighthounds such as the greyhound, however some have temperaments that are influenced by other breeds such as herding dogs and terriers.

Each Countryman Fairs even offers a variety of showing classes and field events for these magnificent dogs. The Midland Game Fair is home the Countryman’s Weekly Champion of Champions, the most prestigious terrier and lurcher show in the world. Click here for more details.