General Description: (Deerhound) The Scottish Deerhound is a unique looking dog with a small round head. A long narrow muzzle leads to their large black nose which was designed for hunting. The breed has small round eyes and little ears set back on their heads. Their jaw should close into a level, not a scissors, bite. The breed’s long, narrow neck leads to broad shoulders and a sunken in stomach. Their legs are extremely long and skinny with small hare-like feet. Their long, narrow tail has a curl at the end.
Character: The Scottish Deerhound is an immensely friendly dog. Being with their family is very important to this breed. They love attention and affection. Strangers will feel welcome around the Scottish Deerhound who is always eager to meet new people. Children can safely be around them because they are extremely sweet and gentle. They do great with other dogs, even unfamiliar ones. However, small animals should not be kept around them because they were meant to hunt. They can be independent and defiant sometimes but are usually willing to please. Their calm nature makes them good in the house.
Size: 28-32 inches
Weight: 75-110 pounds
General Health: The Scottish Deerhound has a tendency for a few genetic anomalies, such as anal sac infections, bloat, heart problems, and hypothyroidism. Additionally, the breed is prone to some allergies, including inhalant and flea. The Scottish Deerhound has a life expectancy of up to 10 years.
History: The Scottish Deerhound is actually a version of the Greyhound which was created in Scotland. The dog’s origins actually go back to the Middle Ages when it was used, as the name suggests, to hunt deer. The unique coat of the Scottish Deerhound developed as a way to protect the dog from the harsh environment it called home. Although popular with nobility, the breed fell out of fashion when hunting deer with a gun became common practice. Two fans of the breed did their part to revive the breed in the late 19th century but many of the dogs ended up being destroyed after World War II because there was not enough food available for them. Thankfully, not all of the Scottish Deerhounds met this fate
Maintenance: Like most wired hair breeds, the Scottish Deerhound requires quite a bit of grooming. They should be brushed frequently to remove dead hair. Plucking out extra hair in the ears and on the feet is also necessary. Their coat should also be stripped once or twice a year. Energy is something the Scottish Deerhound has plenty of, so jogging or walking should occur on a daily basis. Running off leash in a secure area is also something this breed enjoys. A secure fence is needed so they do not run off and chase animals or cars.
Ideal Environment: The Scottish Deerhound can adapt to many living environments. Families should give them lots of love and attention to keep them happy. They will do well with children of all ages. Strangers will receive a warm greeting as if they have been known for a lifetime. They do great with any dogs, but small animals are a different story because Scottish Deerhounds are bred to hunt and will chase them. An apartment is not the best place for this breed because they really need a yard to play in. They do require owners who have lots of time for grooming and exercise.
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Scottish Deerhound information.