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Luring: Canine Instinct, History, and at-Home Fun

by Emma Kesler, CDBC, CPDT-KA
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Dogs with a strong prey drive are naturally drawn to fast moving objects. For many types of hunting dogs, the ability to recognize small moving objects and the internal drive to bolt instantly after prey has been critical to their work. Sighthounds were bred to hunt in packs, often with people and horses, and to follow the prey by sight (hence their name). Terriers were also bred to hunt for sport, and additionally, to be always on the lookout for vermin to eradicate. Historically, these pursuits were both for necessity (for food and protection of resources) and for upper class sporting pleasures.

 

Mosaic of hunter and dogs, Villa Romana del Casale, Italy, early 4th century AD

In more recent times, people have developed a sport that tests and celebrates this natural instinct in dogs, but instead of using live prey, lures are used that mimic the movement of prey. There are two reasons for this: a lack of need to hunt this way, and the ability to practice the speed-driven sport in a fashion that is more organized and safe. Live prey is unpredictable and can lead dogs astray, sometimes into danger. Modern Lure Coursing is a competitive sport where a mechanically operated lure is zipped around a field. It is a recognized and widely practiced sport; however, many venues are currently restricted to specific breeds of (mostly sighthound) competitors.

Modern lure coursing, video by Alister Sanderson

 

Not surprisingly, people with different breeds of dogs have figured out a small-scale way of offering this kind of play and exercise for their dogs. Dogs that are less suitable to work with other dogs when chasing faux prey (many terriers) work wonderfully with a hand-held lure that can be practiced individually. Not only that, but condensing this fun game into the hand-held toy form offers handlers the opportunity to use it not only as an exercise activity — but also as a reward in-between training sessions or for any job well done. Some dogs love playtime more than food, so this activity can be used as a highly motivating reward.
Bring on the toy of many names: Homemade versions are often called “flirt poles,” which are sturdy versions of this type of toy long popular among pitbull owners. Commercially-made versions are aplenty, all with different product names. Miles and I have tried several commercially-made lure toys, and our favorite so far is the “tail teaser.” I like this one because Miles is drawn to the lure rather than the pole (yes – that can be a problem with the ever-observant terrier group).
  • This kind of toy is interactive only, and must be stored out of reach when not in use.
  • Play should be customized based on the body type and needs of the dog. This is not a good toy for elderly dogs, very young puppies, or for breeds of dogs that are extremely prone to joint problems.
 
Ready-Made Lure Pole Toy:
Tail Teaser (how to replace lure)
More About Prey Drive:
Prey Drive
More About Lure Coursing:
Lure Coursing: The Sport for Dogs that are Born to Chase
American Kennel Club: History of Lure Coursing
Compressive Wikipedia Article about Lure Coursing
A Great Video of a Yorkshire Terrier Lure Coursing
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Emma Kesler, CDBC, CPDT-KA

Emma Kesler, CDBC, CPDT-KA

Emma Kesler, CDBC, CPDT-KA is an award-winning Certified Dog Behavior Consultant who has worked with clients around the world for over a decade. Emma dedicates her coaching roster to types of dogs that are underserved in the dog behavior and training world. Emma shares her life with her Welsh Terrier copilot Miles.

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Comments 3

  1. Anth says:
    10 years ago

    You went Miles fishing? AWESOMES!

    Reply
  2. Emma says:
    10 years ago

    Exactly Anth!

    Reply
  3. Run Dog Run says:
    10 years ago

    We played the lure on a stick game frequently with your young Airedale and he loved it. When he got older, we found someone with a lure machine and once again, he loved chasing the lure. We decided to purchase our own set of lure equipment and have since started a lure chasing business so all dogs can enjoy chasing lures without the competition normally required with most sighthound only clubs. Dogs are getting quality exercise and releasing pent up physical and mental energy. Local trainers have been recommending us like crazy. http://www.rundogrun.us. It's amazing how many dogs love to chase. Some are fast, some slow, some big, and some small, but all with the same instinct. I think the owners enjoy watching their dogs run just as much as the dogs love what they are doing.

    Reply

This is for all of the wild dogs out there, for the people who love them, and for those who want get to know them. You've come to the right place. 🐶

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Copyright © 2022 Miles and Emma

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