Home > What is Lure Coursing?	Today is: Monday, February 06, 2012

Lure coursing began with the ancient Egyptians. Not only was it a pleasurable pastime, but it also provided food for the table and eliminated predators. Although the need for coursing has been eliminated with modern day conveniences, we still enjoy the sport for the enjoyment of the dogs doing what they were bred to do and for the love of the run.

AKC lure coursing only allows sight hounds to compete in lure coursing events. There are only 11 recognized sight hound breeds. Some breed examples are Afghan Hounds, Borzoi's, Greyhounds, Ibizan Hounds, Salukis and Whippets. So the "field" is very limited as to what dogs can compete.

In lure coursing, the lure consists of several white plastic bags attached to a line. Sometimes tanned animal skins or fake fur strips are used. The lure is attached to a string. The string is then pulled around the course by a starter motor. The lure may go as fast as 35 to 40 MPH. It is important to keep the lure 10 to 30 yards in front of the dogs. You do not want the dogs to catch the lure, as then the "hunt" would be over. The course is set out at a minimum of 600 yards usually in a large (5 acres or so) flat grassy field.

Under AKC rules, the sight hounds are scored on their speed, agility, endurance, overall ability and the "follow" of the lure. The titles the dogs can earn are Junior Courser, Senior Courser and Field Champion.