Sighthound
Weight Range
75-115 lbs
Height Range
28-32 inches
Coat Type
Long, rough
Color Range
Dark blue-gray, brindle, fawn
Temperament
Gentle, kind, aloof
Lifespan
8-11 years
Best For
Families with older children, athletes
Other Names
Scottish Greyhound
Origin
Scotland
AKC Group
Hound
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History
The Scottish Deerhound is a sighthound that was bred to hunt red deer, wolves, and other large game in the mountainous Scottish Highlands. These hounds were highly prized by the Scottish clans, and they were often given as gifts to royalty and other important figures. The breed nearly became extinct in the 18th and 19th centuries, but it was revived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Scottish Deerhound was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1886.
Appearance
The Scottish Deerhound is a large, imposing sighthound with a long, lean body and a deep chest. The head is long and narrow with a pronounced stop, and the eyes are dark and almond-shaped. The ears are small and set high on the head, and they are usually carried folded back. The tail is long and thin, and it is carried low.
The coat of the Scottish Deerhound is long and rough. It comes in a variety of colors, including dark blue-gray, brindle, and fawn. The coat requires regular brushing to keep it clean and free of mats.
Temperament
The Scottish Deerhound is a gentle and kind dog that makes an excellent companion. They are aloof with strangers, but they are very friendly and affectionate with their family members. Scottish Deerhounds are also very loyal and protective. They are intelligent dogs that are eager to please, but they can also be stubborn at times.
Health
The Scottish Deerhound is a relatively healthy breed. However, they are prone to certain health conditions, including:
- Hip dysplasia is a condition in which the hip joint does not develop properly. This can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis.
- Elbow dysplasia is a condition in which the elbow joint does not develop properly. This can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis.
- Osteosarcoma is a type of bone cancer that can occur in dogs of all breeds. It is the most common type of bone cancer in Scottish Deerhounds.
- Bloat is a life-threatening condition in which the stomach becomes twisted. This can occur in dogs of all breeds, but it is more common in large dogs.
Lifespan
The average lifespan of a Scottish Deerhound is 8-11 years.
Best For
The Scottish Deerhound is best for families with older children and athletes. They are also good for people who live in rural areas or who have a lot of land. Scottish Deerhounds need plenty of exercise, and they do not do well in apartments or other small living spaces.
Other Names
The Scottish Deerhound is also known as the Scottish Greyhound.