I’m a dog expert… here’s the breed that always gets left behind – its a myth that they need long walks
A DOG expert has revealed the breed that always gets left behind at shelters due to a string of "misconceptions".
Alex Hennessey, a manager at Dogs Trust Darlington, explained that lurchers are often overlooked by people looking to adopt a pet.
Lurchers are sighthounds, such as Greyhounds, Whippets or Salukis, that have been crossed with herding or terrier breeds.
They are typically tall, athletic and adventurous, but are known to be quiet in comparison to their more confident counterparts.
Due to being crossbred, the pups vary in size, hair length and colour - meaning each one is unique.
But Lurchers are well known for their intelligence, deep chests and loyalty to their owner, making them the perfect addition to a family.
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However, Alex says the breed often "spend longer in our care" than other hounds, as people think they are too much of a challenge.
But the canine connoisseur is on a mission to bust the myths surrounding Lurchers that discourage potential dog owners.
He described them as being "trustworthy and gentle", allowing them to form very strong bonds with their human carer.
As well as this, Alex said they are "renowned for being affectionate, so will bring a lot of love to their owner's lives."
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The Dogs Trust worker says people are put off adopting the pooches as they believe they are a high-maintenance breed.
The welfare charity's Darlington branch currently has eight Lurchers in their care desperately waiting for their forever home.
Alex wants Brits to find out more about the adorable dogs in the hopes of encouraging prospective owners to take a chance on them.
He told : "Lurchers tend to spend longer in our care than other breeds and are often overlooked.
"So, it’s important for us to try and dispel any misconceptions that may exist about the breed and urge people not to rule out a Lurcher as their perfect pet.
"It is a myth that they need a huge amount of exercise and long walks, they do need regular exercise like every dog, but they also very much relish lounging on the sofa.
"Lurchers really are at their happiest when they are with their owner, the one they love.
"Each is unique with different personalities and colourings. All have so much love to offer and await their second chance in life."
Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust are currently caring for "playful" two-year-old girl Bailey, "star pupil" Bella, six, and fetch-loving Bubbles, two.
Casey, four, "goofy" seven-year-old Flash, Francis, three, Maggie, two, and nine-month-old pup Josie are also still searching for a new home.
Alex said they are all "desperate to build that special bond with a new owner and find a sofa to call their own".
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Dogs Trust rehomed 524 Lurchers last year, but another 350 have been taken in by the charity since the start of 2023.
Potential adopters can find out more about the darling dog breed and each individual pup by clicking .