Home » Meet The Breeds » Scottish Deerhound Dog Breed
The Scottish Deerhound, sometimes simply known as the Deerhound, is a majestic and ancient breed known for its regal appearance and gentle disposition. Originally bred for pursuing red deer, this sighthound is characterized by a wiry coat, long limbs, and a very dignified demeanor.
Hound
28 – 32 Inches
75 – 110 Pounds
8 – 11 Years
Country of Origin | Scotland |
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Bred For | Deer Hunting, Companionship |
Known For | Muscular Build, Gentleness, Loyalty |
Popularity | Low |
Temperament | Dignified, Gentle, Polite |
Activities | Coursing, Running, Hiking, Conformation Shows, Dog Sports |
The Scottish Deerhound, referred to as the “Royal Dog of Scotland,” boasts a history that is as captivating as its regal appearance would suggest. This ancient breed has graced the Scottish highlands for centuries, serving as a trusted companion of nobles and a proficient hunter of fleet-footed quarry.
As a member of the sighthound family of dogs, the breed’s ancestors are believed to have been brought to the British Isles by the Phoenicians and Romans. Those early hounds were interbred with local dogs, resulting in the development of this hound’s coursing predecessors.
The primary purpose of the Deerhound was to course deer, a task for which the hound’s speed, endurance, and size had it ideally suited. Unlike other hunting breeds that relied on scent, Deerhounds used their keen eyesight to spot and chase down their quarry across the rugged Scottish landscape.
By the Middle Ages, the Scottish Deerhound had gained significant prominence, especially among chieftains and nobles. The breed’s prowess in hunting, and their dignified demeanor, made them highly coveted. So much so that, at one point, laws restricted the ownership of Deerhounds to only those of noble birth.
Sadly, as firearms became the preferred method of hunting, the need for Deerhounds diminished. By the 18th century, their numbers had dwindled alarmingly. However, passionate enthusiasts, recognizing the breed’s historical importance and its many unique qualities, undertook efforts to revive the breed.
The 19th century saw a resurgence in the Deerhound’s popularity, thanks to dedicated breeding programs. The breed gained official recognition by various kennel clubs and registries, further securing its place within the dog world. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Scottish Deerhound in 1886, and it was also recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1955.
Today, while not as widespread as some other breeds, the Scottish Deerhound is cherished by breed enthusiasts and families alike, not just for its hunting abilities but also for its gentle nature and dedication to its people.
Adult male Scottish Deerhounds typically stand at a height of 30 to 32 inches at the shoulder, while mature females typically measure at least 28 inches tall.
As for weight, males tend to weigh between 85 and 110 pounds, with females weighing slightly less, ranging from 75 to 95 pounds.
Scottish Deerhounds exhibit a harmonious balance between length and height, a proportion that beautifully combines strength and elegance. The breed’s overall body is somewhat elongated, with its length slightly longer than the dog’s height at the shoulders. This gives the Deerhound its characteristic agile and streamlined appearance, one that is perfectly suited for high-speed pursuits. Substance-wise, the Deerhound possesses a robust and athletic build, with strong bones that contribute to its formidable nature while hunting.
Texture: The Scottish Deerhound’s coat is harsh and crisp to the touch. It is thick, close-lying, and rather ragged in appearance. The length on the neck and body, as well as on the fore and hindquarters, measures from 3 to 4 inches in length. A mustache, beard, and eyebrows are present, as is a slight fringe on the insides of the forelegs and thighs. The coat of a Scottish Deerhound provides ample protection in inclement weather.
Standard Color | |
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Blue Gray | ee |
Brindle | ee |
Gray | ee |
Gray Brindle | ee |
Black | ee |
Black Brindle | ee |
Blue | ee |
Markings: White Markings
A Note About Color: In terms of color, a blue-gray coat is preferred; however, darker and lighter grays and brindles may be seen, the darker the tone the better. Most other historic colors, including black-masked varieties, are no longer seen in the breed. A small amount of white on the chest, the tail tip, and/or the toes is acceptable, but a white collar or white blaze is not.
The tail of the Scottish Deerhound is a distinguishing breed feature, characterized by its long length, tapering form, and curve. Broad at the base, the tail tapers to a fine point and reaches below the hocks. When the Deerhound is relaxed or in motion, the tail is carried low, with just a slight upward curve at the tip.
The tail serves as a good indicator of the dog’s mood, swishing gently when the Deerhound is content and raising slightly when the dog is excited or alert. However, it should not be curled or held over the back. The tail is covered with hair that is slightly longer than that of the neck but shorter than the body coat. It should never be feathered.
Historically, the tail’s length and strength were essential during the hunt, as these qualities aided the hound while it was pursuing its prey. Due to these qualities, however, the tail may be prone to injury in and around the house.
Owning a Scottish Deerhound can be a rewarding experience. This breed, steeped in hunting history with a noble lineage, offers a unique combination of gentleness and strength. However, there are several considerations that potential caretakers should be aware of before deciding to welcome a Deerhound into the home.
The Scottish Deerhound, like all dogs, has specific health concerns that prospective owners of the breed should be made aware. Although these hounds are generally healthy dogs, their large size and unique conformation mean they may be prone to certain conditions.
Lifespan: The average lifespan of the Scottish Deerhound ranges from 8 to 11 years. While some may live beyond these years, it is important to provide the best care to ensure both longevity and quality of life.
While the Scottish Deerhound is a robust and resilient breed, there are certain health risks that should be considered. These include:
Understanding these health risks begins with an honest conversation with a reputable breeder. Regular veterinary check-ups, especially as the Deerhound ages, are also essential as they can help to detect and address any issue before it becomes severe.
When considering the personality of the Scottish Deerhound, one is immediately struck by their gentle and dignified nature. Belying their imposing size, Deerhounds are often described as calm, courteous, and keenly perceptive.
For those wondering if the breed is suitable for novice handlers, the answer is largely affirmative. Scottish Deerhounds, due to their even-tempered disposition, can be quite forgiving of a handler’s missteps. That being said, like all breeds, they benefit from consistent and understanding guidance.
In terms of sensitivity level, Deerhounds are attuned to the emotions and nuances of their human companions. They thrive in an environment of mutual respect and can become withdrawn if treated harshly.
Being alone is something the Scottish Deerhound can tolerate for short periods, but they are social creatures by nature. Extended isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness or even anxiety.
When it comes to relations with other dogs, Deerhounds usually get along well, especially if they are introduced in a controlled and positive manner. Their history as pack hunters means they often appreciate the company of their canine counterparts.
Families with young children will find the Scottish Deerhound to be patient and gentle. However, due to their size, it’s always recommended to supervise interactions between any large dog and small children.
As for their stance towards strangers, Deerhounds tend to be reserved but not aggressive. A well-socialized Deerhound will be polite and may warm up to newcomers once they’ve assessed them.
The nutritional needs of a Scottish Deerhound can vary based on age, activity level, and individual health. However, a balanced diet is the cornerstone for their well-being.
For a Scottish Deerhound puppy, a high-quality puppy formula is essential. As they are a larger breed, growth should be slow to ensure the proper development of bones and joints. Typically, Deerhound puppies are fed 3-4 times a day, transitioning to twice daily feeding as they approach adulthood.
An adult Scottish Deerhound requires a diet that can support its energy levels and size. A typical adult might consume 3-4 cups of high-quality dog food daily, split into two meals. This can fluctuate depending on the dog’s activity level and metabolism.
It’s always crucial for owners to monitor their dog’s weight. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which in turn can result in numerous health issues. On the flip side, underfeeding or not providing the right nutrients can lead to deficiencies or other health problems.
Treats can be a valuable training tool, but they should be used in moderation. Always ensure that treats are not accounting for more than 10% of their daily caloric intake. Fresh water should always be accessible for the Deerhound, ensuring they stay hydrated.
Lastly, when changing their diet, it should be done gradually over a week to prevent digestive upsets. This involves mixing the old and new food, gradually increasing the proportion of the new food day by day.
The Scottish Deerhound, with its noble lineage and dignified demeanor, might present an impression of independence. However, beneath this stately exterior lies a breed that is eager to please and relatively compliant, making them quite trainable.
That said, Deerhounds, by nature, are gentle souls. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods and can be somewhat resistant to more assertive techniques. The key is patience, consistency, and understanding.
Training a Scottish Deerhound can be a relatively smooth process. Although they aren’t known for being stubborn, their sensitive nature means that handlers should approach training sessions with kindness and positivity. Utilizing treats, praises, and gentle corrections often yield better results with this breed than stern rebukes.
When it comes to vocalizing, Deerhounds are not typically barkers. They might alert their handler to something unusual, but they aren’t known for being overly vocal.
In terms of intelligence, the Scottish Deerhound is sharp and observant. While they might not have the hyper-focus of some working breeds, they are astute and often pick up on cues quickly.
The breed’s wanderlust potential is worth noting. As sighthounds, they have a strong instinct to chase,