Lurcher insurance
Is the Lurcher the right dog breed for you?
Our guide to living with a Lurcher
Lurchers are elegant, gentle dogs known for their speed, sweet nature, and laid-back attitude. A cross between a sighthound and another breed (often a Collie or Terrier), Lurchers come in all shapes and sizes - but they all share a love of lounging, sprinting, and cuddling with their favourite humans.
Lurcher quick facts
- Size: Varies – typically 50–71cm (depending on breed mix)
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Weight: 12–35kg, depending on build
- Colours: Wide range – black, brindle, fawn, white, grey, and more, often with a smooth, rough, or broken coat
- Temperament: Calm, affectionate, intelligent
- Common health issues: Bloat, injuries from running, arthritis in later life
- Country of origin: United Kingdom
Where does the Lurcher come from?
The Lurcher isn’t a breed in the traditional sense, it's a type of dog, usually a cross between a Greyhound and another working breed like a Collie, Whippet, or Terrier.
Originally bred in the UK for poaching and hunting, Lurchers were valued for their speed, intelligence, and stealth. The name likely comes from the Romani word "lur," meaning robber or thief - a nod to their history as stealthy hunters.
Today, they’re better known as gentle family pets and loyal companions. Their calm nature and loving temperament make them ideal for a quieter, slower-paced home, though they still love the occasional mad dash.
Lurcher temperament
Affectionate
Lurchers are affectionate, chilled-out, and surprisingly lazy for such fast dogs. They're happiest curled up on the sofa but do enjoy short bursts of exercise, especially off-lead zoomies.
Intelligent
Like Greyhounds, they’re often described as ‘40mph couch potatoes’ - they run fast, but they rest even harder. Lurchers are intelligent and usually very well-mannered in the home.
Gentle
They're gentle with people, love affection, and are usually great with children. However, depending on their mix, they might have a strong prey drive, so early training and careful socialisation are important.
Are Lurchers good pets?
Yes, Lurchers can make great pets. They’re typically affectionate, calm, and loyal. They’re great companions for relaxed households, and many are brilliant with children. They love cuddles, cosy beds, and short bursts of running around.
Are Lurchers good with kids?
Yes, Lurchers are generally great with children. They’re calm, tolerant, and affectionate. Just be mindful of very young kids around large, leggy dogs, they’re not always aware of their size. They love to be part of a relaxed family and enjoy peaceful environments. Like all dogs, they benefit from early socialisation and supervision during play.
Lurcher size & appearance
Since Lurchers are crossbreeds, their appearance varies widely depending on their parentage. Most have the lean, athletic build of a Greyhound or Whippet, with long legs, deep chests, and narrow waists.
Their coats can be short, rough, or wiry, and they come in every colour and pattern imaginable. What unites them is their graceful, aerodynamic shape and soulful eyes.
Thinking of getting a Lurcher puppy?
What to expect week-by-week from your first year
We've laid out what to expect from your first year with your new puppy with a series of videos and helpful guides, so you can stay on top of your training, keep your pup healthy, and help them settle in to their new life.
Lurcher grooming
Lurchers are typically low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Smooth-coated Lurchers need a quick brush once a week. Rough or broken-coated Lurchers benefit from more regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles. They rarely need baths unless they’ve rolled in something gross. Like all dogs, they’ll need regular nail trimming, ear checks, and dental care to stay in good condition.
Do Lurchers shed?
Yes, but usually only a little. Short-haired Lurchers shed minimally, while rough or broken-coated ones may need more brushing. Either way, grooming is fairly low-maintenance.
Are Lurcher dogs hypoallergenic?
No, Lurchers aren’t considered hypoallergenic. While they don’t shed as much as some breeds, they still produce dander and can trigger allergies. People with mild sensitivities may find them easier to live with, especially the short-haired types - but they’re not allergy-free.
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** Agria is a Which? Best Buy for our Lifetime, Lifetime Plus and Lifetime Premium dog insurance products*. Which? policy score ratings are based on an analysis of policy cover levels conducted in November 2024. Best Buy providers have a high policy score and a good track record for paying claims. Read the Which? article.
Lurcher training
- 1
Be gentle and consistent
Lurchers are smart and eager to please, especially if training is gentle, consistent, and positive. However, they can be sensitive and easily spooked, so harsh training methods don’t work.
- 2
Start early
Start training early with socialisation, basic commands, and recall especially important due to their potential prey drive. Keep training fun, short, and rewarding, and they’ll respond well.
- 3
Keep them active
Lurchers need around 60 - 90 minutes of exercise per day, depending on age and energy level. They love a good sprint in a secure field, followed by a long nap.
- 4
Provide stimulation
Most aren’t hyperactive and don’t need constant walking. But they do enjoy playtime, walks where they can have a good sniff, and occasional off-lead runs in safe areas. Mental stimulation - like scent games or enrichment toys - helps too.
How fast can a Lurcher run?
Lurchers are seriously fast. Many can run at speeds of 35 to 40mph, especially if they have Greyhound or Whippet in them. They’re built for sprinting - not long-distance running.
How long do Lurchers sleep?
Lurchers love their sleep. Most adult Lurchers will snooze for 16 to 18 hours a day, especially after a good walk. They're proper lounge lizards.
Lurcher health issues
Lurchers are generally healthy but like any mixed breed can inherit certain health issues from their ancestry:
Bloat (Gastric torsion)
A serious, life-threatening condition where the stomach twists - don’t feed them just before or after exercise.
Injuries
Their high-speed zooms can lead to sprains or knocks, especially in rough terrain.
Arthritis
Older dogs may develop joint issues due to their long limbs and active lifestyle.
Regular vet checks, a balanced diet, and keeping them warm and well-padded (especially in winter) help them stay happy and healthy.
What we love most about Lurchers
Couch potato energy
They love lounging as much as they love running - ideal for people who enjoy balance.
Gentle temperament
Sweet-natured and sensitive, Lurchers are deeply affectionate without being overly clingy.
Unique charm
No two Lurchers are quite the same. Their mix of breeds makes them quirky, beautiful, and full of personality.
Things to consider before getting a Lurcher
Lurchers make fantastic pets, but they’re not for everyone. Here are a few things to consider.
- 1
Prey drive varies
Some Lurchers can’t live with cats or small animals, depending on their mix and upbringing.
- 2
They feel the cold
Their lean build means they get chilly quickly - coats, soft beds, and warm homes are a must.
- 3
Not always off-lead safe
Unless they’ve got solid recall and a low prey drive, it’s best to keep them in secure areas.
If you’re after a calm, loving, and slightly silly companion with occasional bursts of speed, a Lurcher might be your perfect match.
Lurcher insurance with Agria
With Agria, it's lifetime, every time
At Agria, we believe pet insurance should last your pet’s lifetime. Our policies provide lifelong vet’s fees cover for illnesses and injuries. This means that, provided your policy is renewed each year, your maximum benefit will be refreshed, providing cover for ongoing conditions.
So, whatever happens throughout your Lurcher's life, we’ll always be there for you and your dog!
Up to £20,000 towards vet bills every year
So your dog can get the care they need.
We pay 98% of claims*
And we can pay your vet directly, so you can focus on your dog.
No increase in your premiums when you claim
So you don’t have to worry about the cost of insurance when you go to the vet.
Free vet video calls, 24/7
Which means help is always on hand if you’re worried.
Dotty about dogs? Get a 5% multi-pet discount when you insure more than one pet with us.
*Based on all Agria Pet Insurance claims received between November 2023 and May 2024.
Want to know about our insurance policies? From multi-pet coverage to pre-existing conditions, we have lifetime insurance options for cats, rabbits, horses, and dogs, including older dogs.
Lurcher FAQs
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