Lure coursing is my favorite activity
with my dogs. The dogs run and chase the lure for the pure joy of the
chase. Each dog brings their own physical abilities, attitude, and perseverance
to the field. You truly gain respect for the tremendous athleticism of
this breed as you watch them fly around a course!
Lure coursing is one way to
prove to ourselves that our hounds can still do the job for which they
were bred. It simulates a hunt by providing a lure for the dog to
chase. It isn't a perfect simulation because, in a real hunt, the
hound would be working to turn and manipulate, rather than just chase, the prey. Still, for those of us
who can't or won't participate in real hunts, this is a fun, exciting way to "fake
it."
The dogs chase a lure, usually
a
white plastic bag, sometimes a bunny skin, around a pre-set course that is
around 600 - 1,000 yards long.
They are judged on 5 different
attributes: speed, agility, follow, endurance, and enthusiasm.
Dogs can earn points toward lure coursing championships through two
organizations. ASFA, the American Sighthound Field Organization, is
the oldest and most frequently held course. The AKC has also started
hosting field trials. They judge the same attributes as ASFA with
the substitution of overall ability for enthusiasm.
I'm very proud that my dogs are superb lure coursers. They regularly do
well in competition against other Pharaoh Hounds. And my youngest, Glory,
recently earned a Best In Field - this means she defeated not just Pharaoh
Hounds, but all of the sighthounds competing that day!
Remember, these dogs need to be treated like the athletes that they are.
Walk your dogs before and after every run. Give your dogs a chance to get
warmed up and stretched out before they begin sprinting at full speed for
amazing distances! Walking afterward helps the dog cool down and saves
them from getting stiff. Encourage them to urinate afterward, helping to
shed lactic acid that built up during the run. Encourage lots of water
drinking - hydration is very important.
If you own a Pharaoh Hound, or any Sighthound, give your dog the chance to have
fun with this wonderful sport!
