Silkin vs. Lurcher: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Silkins or Lurchers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Silkin nor Lurcher are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Silkin and Lurcher dogs?

Playful
Loving
Independent
Alert
Intelligent
Friendly
Responsive
Loyal
Quick
Joyful
Inquisitive

Affectionate
Funny
Loving

Shedding Level

Do Silkins shed more than Lurchers, or which breed sheds more, Silkins or Lurchers?

2 / 5

Silkins are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

3 / 5

Lurchers are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Silkin or Lurcher?

1 / 5

Avoid Silkins as watchdogs - they're not effective.

4 / 5

Lurchers make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Silkin and Lurcher breeds?

Silky Terrier, Japanese Chin

Sight-hound

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Silkin and Lurcher?

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DBR = Designer Breed Registry
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

Dog Registry of America Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Silkin and Lurcher breeds first developed?

Unknown

Middle Ages

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Silkin and Lurcher dogs?

Brown

Blue
Hazel
Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Silkin and Lurcher?

Black
Brown

Blue
Black
Brown
Isabella

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Silkin and Lurcher breeds?

Black
Brown
White
Cream

Brindle
Sable
White
Pied
Silver
Blue
Fawn
Isabella
Cream
Red
Brown
Gray
Black

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Silkin and Lurcher breeds?

3 / 5

The coat of Silkin and Lurcher dogs falls in the medium-length category.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Silkin and Lurcher?

4 / 5

2 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Silkin and Lurcher?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Silkin and Lurcher?

A Silkin can have a litter of 3-5 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Lurcher can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

4 / 5

Silkins are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

3 / 5

Lurchers have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Health Issues

Between Silkin and Lurcher, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Silkin and Lurcher breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Silkin and Lurcher breeds?

Ear Infections
Patellar Luxation
Cataracts
Diabetes

Heat Stroke
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Silkin and Lurcher?

Hip Dysplasia
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Heart Murmur
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Hypothyroidism
Foot and Toenail Injuries
Eye Conditions (Cataracts, Lens Luxation)

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Silkin and Lurcher breeds?

Physical Examination
Blood Count
X-rays or other radiographic imaging
Eye and Ear Examination

Eye Examinations
Blood And Urine Analysis
X-rays or other radiographic imaging
Bone Biopsy

Energy

How do the energy levels of Silkins and Lurchers compare?

3 / 5

For those who lead a balanced lifestyle, Silkin and Lurcher breeds may be a good choice as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Silkin vs Lurcher social needs comparison

5 / 5

Silkin has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

3 / 5

Lurcher has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Exercise Needed

Silkin vs Lurcher exercise need comparison.

1 / 5

Silkins require minimal physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.

3 / 5

Lurchers need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Silkin or Lurcher?

4 / 5

Silkins are known for their relaxed and calm nature and enjoy long periods of sleep.

3 / 5

Lurchers have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Tendency to Bark

Do Silkins or Lurchers bark more/less frequently?

1 / 5

Silkins are typically quiet and only bark when needed, such as to alert their owner or when in distress.

3 / 5

Lurchers bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Silkin vs Lurcher?

4 / 5

2 / 5

Roaming urge

Silkin vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

2 / 5

4 / 5

Prey Drive

Silkin or Lurcher - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Silkins or Lurchers?

Silkins are low-energy dogs. This breed make a great companion for a relatively inactive person. Silkin dogs require a few short daily walks, and then they're happy snuggling next to you for the rest of the day.

Lurchers are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

3 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Silkin or Lurcher walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Silkin, it's at least 7 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Lurcher, it's at least 15 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Silkins or Lurchers require more exercise?

In general most Silkins usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Lurchers usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Silkins or Lurchers?

4 / 5

Silkins require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

3 / 5

The Lurcher requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Silkin and Lurcher dogs?

Ideally, Silkin should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Lurcher should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Silkins and Lurchers?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Silkin or Lurcher in cups?

For an average 8-11 pound (4 - 5 kg) Silkin feed 1.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 60-70 pound (27 - 32 kg) Lurcher feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Silkin or Lurcher?

The average cost of a Silkin is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

The average cost of a Lurcher is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Silkin or Lurcher?

The average per month expenses of a Silkin is between $28 - $42. This makes an average of $336 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Lurcher is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Silkins vs Lurchers

3 / 5

Silkins are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

2 / 5

Lurcher has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do Silkin and Lurcher compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Silkin and Lurcher need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Silkin vs Lurcher?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Silkin or Lurcher?

5 / 5

Silkins make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

1 / 5

The Lurcher is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.

Child Friendly

Do Silkins or Lurchers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

3 / 5

Silkins have an average level of friendliness towards children.

4 / 5

Lurchers are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Silkin or Lurcher?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Silkin or Lurcher breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

4 / 5

Silkins are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

3 / 5

Lurchers are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Silkin or Lurcher?

3 / 5

Silkins are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

2 / 5

Lurchers are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Pet friendly

How do Silkin or Lurcher dogs interact with other pets?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Silkin or Lurcher?

4 / 5

Silkins are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

3 / 5

Lurchers are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Silkin and Lurcher?

4 / 5

Silkins are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

3 / 5

Lurchers have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Silkins and Lurchers compare?

4 / 5

Silkins are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

3 / 5

Lurchers are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.