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UKC COURSING RULES

Before organized lure coursing was formalized with organizations and rules, it was thought that to
condition hounds for hunting that chasing a plastic bag or strips would substitute for game and
owners would let the hounds would chase the “lure” around the fields.  It wasn’t long before “rules”
etc...  started to appear and the organization of lure coursing began. Originally the intent of lure
coursing was to simulate live game in course design.  It is now known that no amount of string
and/or pulleys could ever simulate condition of an actual hunt.  It is now generally understood
that lure coursing in no way is related to what live game can or would do in a “hunt”.  Lure
coursing has evolved into a sport unto itself with each organization having similar but differing
rules and regulations.

Courses are laid out with string over a series of pulleys with a design to show the judge or judges the
categories of scoring over the length of the course, typically 500 to 1,000 yards.  The lure is attached
to the string and is propelled by motor/motors at speeds approaching 50 mph for the faster breeds of
sighthounds.   Although most courses are of continuous loop design, a drag lure is also permissible.
Dogs are judged by overall ability, speed, follow, endurance and agility; and points for each category
are given subjectively by the judge/judges.  There are some minor differences in each of the five
organizations in categories and in the scoring of the dogs as well as eligible breeds?  (See each
organizations rules and regulations and scoring criteria on their respective web sites)
All judging for lure coursing is subjective.

UKC Coursing