Lure coursing is a sport for dogs that involves chasing a mechanically operated lure. The AKC and AFSA (American Field Sighthound Association ) are the two main sanctioning bodies in the US. Participation is limited to purebred sighthounds. This group includes Greyhounds, Italian Greyhounds, Afghan Hounds, Borzois, Irish Wolfhounds, Deerhounds, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Whippets, Salukis, Basenjis, Ibizan Hounds, Pharaoh Hounds and Sloughis.
The lure course is usually laid out in a fenced field and is between 600 and 1000 yards long. Dogs are coursed by breed and in groups of three if three dogs are available for the run. Dogs are not judged purely on speed, but on "follow" and keeness. Simply chasing the dog in front is not considered good performance.
Because chasing things comes naturally to the sighthound breeds, the dogs generally enjoy the sport. It is also quite entertaining for spectators.
