What is Lure Coursing?

Lure coursing is a sport that many dogs enjoy, and it’s a great way to provide your dog with plenty of mental & physical exercise.

Lure coursing is the sport of having dogs chase a mechanized lure. Modern lure courses use plastic bags attached to a pulley for dogs to chase. And it’s not just for sighthounds anymore, lure coursing trials have been established for dogs of any breed.

Lure coursing is the modern version of chasing a lure based on the ancient sport of live game chasing. Sighthounds were bred for tracking live small game such as hares, pigs, foxes, and in some cases large game such as deer or antelope.

A coursing dog should have the ability to course without showing signs of undue stress or lack of fitness. Coursing tests many aspects of a dog’s physical structure and temperament. As a consequence, dogs who participant in lure coursing need to be both sound and fit.

What do I need for Lure Coursing?

* Collar & Lead for your dog
* Plenty of water for you and your dog
* A comfy chair to watch the fun
* A crate for your dog is handy but not required
* Shade for you and your dog if there is none available
* Esky for your drinks
* If you own a sighthound, you will need to purchase a set of coursing coats.

What breeds can Lure?

Any breed or cross thereof can participate in Lure Coursing. From the smallest Chihuahua to Great Danes compete regularly!

What breeds are classed as Sighthounds?

Afghan Hound, Azawakh, Basenji, Borzoi, Greyhound, Ibizan Hound, Irish Wolfhound, Italian Greyhound, Pharoah Hound, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Saluki, Scottish Deerhound, Sloughi, Whippet
(Current Sighthound Breeds recognized by the ANKC)

All other breeds are classed as Coursing Ability Dogs

Frequently asked questions!

Where is it held? All lure coursing fields used are fully fenced, currently it is being held at DogsQLD Showgrounds, 247 King Avenue, Durack.
My dog doesn’t come back. That is ok, we have people that are great at enticing your dog in to be caught, or helping catch your dog after their run.
Will my dog chase my cat or livestock if I Lure Course them? No, Successful lure coursing dogs live with a wide variety of other animals, such as cats, livestock, chickens and show no desire to chase or hurt other animals. Plastic bags may not be safe after they start coursing though!
How do I get involved? Contact us, we will help point you in the right direction!!

Basic Rules
*  Upon arrival to Lure Coursing meet, check in with the Race Secretary, present all entire bitches for inspection by the vetting clerk.
*  Maintain effective control of your dog whilst off the Coursing field.
*  Watch for your number to be called, 3 calls and you will be marked absent.
*  Do not crowd the Coursing field gate while waiting for your turn, Lure coursing can cause dogs to be highly strung and competitors should not have to deal with dodging dogs to get to the field.
*  Wear your number in a prominent spot on your arm or clothing.
*  The huntsmaster has control of the Lure Coursing Field, obey their direction at all times.
*  On the field, do not release your dog until the Huntmaster calls Tally Ho, early release will result in a deduction of points.
*  Attempt to catch your dog at the end of the course as promptly as possible.
*  Warm your dog up prior to your turn and cool your dog down after it has run.
*  Please be aware that dogs can overheat in the cooler months. If you have a problem, please let an official know straight away for help.

Coursing Ability Title (CAT)
This class is open to all non sighthound ANKC Registered Dogs on either the Main, Limited or Associate Register, owners must be financial DogsQLD members.
Your dog is being scored on the following points:

• Enthusiasm ~ 15 points
• Follow ~ 15 points
• Speed ~ 25 points
• Agility ~ 25 points
• Endurance ~ 20 points.