The Apsara Lurcher Breeding Program focuses on behavioral and physical health. Striving for the ideal versatile pet dog who is naturally suited for family life, competing in performance sports, apartment dwelling, cozy companionship, or an active lifestyle … or all of the above.
Because Apsara focuses on temperament and health over type, the breeding program is not restricted to the breed standard or limited gene pool of any specific breed. Our puppies are purpose-bred sighthound mixes. This allows for much more flexibility when selecting breeding pairs and because we are not restricted to a specific gene pool, it also means a lower coefficient of inbreeding (COI) and, therefore, greatly reduced risk of genetic and autoimmune health disorders.
Apsara may not adhere to a specific breed standard, but we do adhere to a standard for temperament. The ideal Apsara dog:
is handler focused
is easy to train and eager to learn
has an off-switch for quiet times and is able to self-entertain
is affectionate and cuddly
is able to go to new places and try new things with ease
is not sensitive to handling and easy for grooming and veterinary procedures
has minimal startle response and recovers quickly
is not overly sensitive to loud noises
does not have a dangerously high prey drive
is able to get along with other dogs and meet new people and children
is able to live peacefully with other household pets
does not display separation distress
does not display inappropriate aggression
has a bountiful sense of humor
is a joy to share your life and home with
Before participating in the program, breeding pairs must pass both health testing and a temperament evaluation. Each litter is raised with love and devotion (and science) in our home in Central Massachusetts with the assistance of our amazing volunteers and mentorship students. Puppy applicants are carefully and thoughtfully screened to allow for best possible temperament placements. Once selected, puppy families are given a wealth of information and continue to receive ongoing support throughout the lifetime of their Apsara puppy. Our puppies are registered with the Companion Dog Registry, examined by a veterinarian, microchipped, and are appropriately vaccinated and de-wormed prior to their go-home day.
Apsara is a proud member of the Functional Dog Breeding Copilot Co-Op and the Companion Dog Project.