Deerhound (Scottish)

Origins and History

The Scottish Deerhound is an ancient sighthound originating from the Highlands of Scotland. Bred by clans to hunt red deer over rugged terrain, the breed is documented as early as the 14th century. After a decline in the 19th century, dedicated enthusiasts revived the breed, leading to its recognition by the Kennel Club (UK) in 1906 and the American Kennel Club in 1886.

General Characteristics

• Large, elegant, and lightly built with a rectangular outline.
• Gentle, dignified, and reserved temperament; friendly with family but can be aloof with strangers.
• Originally a coursing and hunting dog; today valued for companionship and show conformation.

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males 32‑34 inches (81‑86 cm); Females 30‑32 inches (76‑81 cm).
• Weight: Males 85‑110 lb (38‑50 kg); Females 75‑95 lb (34‑43 kg).

Coat and Color

• Coat: Long, rough, dense, feathered on the ears, tail, and legs; weather‑resistant.
• Accepted colors: Solid black, brindle, fawn, gray, wheaten, red, or white, either solid or white with markings as defined by the UK Kennel Club and AKC standards.

Temperament Considerations

Deerhounds are calm and dignified, often preferring a measured pace. Their independent nature can make them less responsive to high‑intensity commands, so patience and consistency are essential.

Training Essentials

• Early socialization with people, children, and other animals to mitigate shyness.
• Daily moderate exercise—long walks and gentle free‑run in a safe, fenced area—to satisfy their sighthound stamina.
• Positive‑reinforcement methods work best; avoid harsh corrections that can damage trust.

Daily Grooming

• Brush the coat 1‑2 times daily with a slicker brush or undercoat rake to prevent matting.
• Bath as needed; use a mild dog shampoo to preserve the natural oils.
• Trim nails regularly and brush teeth at least weekly.

Show Preparation

• Begin a grooming schedule 4‑6 weeks before the show: weekly professional hand‑stripping of the coat to achieve a smooth, glossy finish.
• Trim the feathering on the ears, tail, and legs to the breed‑standard length.
• Ensure the dog is clean, free of loose hair, and that the coat lies flat for optimal ring presentation.

Common Health Issues

• Hip dysplasia and other orthopedic concerns (screen via OFA or PennHIP).
• Gastric dilatation‑volvulus (bloat); owners should be aware of emergency signs.
• Cardiomyopathy, particularly dilated cardiomyopathy; regular cardiac exams recommended.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and other hereditary eye disorders; annual eye examinations advised.

General Care

• Exercise: Minimum 1‑2 hours of moderate activity daily; avoid excessive high‑impact work on young joints.
• Nutrition: Balanced, high‑quality diet appropriate for a large, active breed; monitor body condition to prevent obesity, which can exacerbate joint disease.
• Lifespan: Typically 8‑11 years; regular veterinary wellness checks help identify issues early.