Breed Characteristics

The Scottish Deerhound is a very distinctive looking breed of dog that resembles a wire-haired Greyhound. These dogs are gentle giants, standing up to 32 inches tall and weighing up to 100 pounds. They are solidly built dogs, with a long, lanky, slender body and a deep chest. They have a wiry, shaggy coat that can be any color, but is most often gray, red or brindle. They also have a long head with a narrow muzzle and high-set ears, and a long tail that curls over their back. They are bred for hunting deer, so they have a very keen sense of smell and are very fast runners.

Scottish Deerhound Temperament

These dogs are known for their sweet temperament and loving personality, which is why they make great family pets. They are very active and need plenty of exercise, but they are also calm and gentle indoors. They are affectionate dogs that are also fearless and strong. They are loyal and protective of their family and homes, and make great watchdogs. If you are looking for a loving, loyal, and active dog, the Scottish Deerhound may be the perfect pet for you.

Bark

The Scottish Deerhound’s bark is actually quite deep and mellow. It’s sometimes described as sounding like a “throated bay” or a “rich, rolling howl”. In fact, many people find the sound of a Scottish Deerhound’s bark quite relaxing!

Health

The Scottish Deerhound is generally considered to be a very healthy breed. However, they can be prone to bloat, so it is important to monitor their food intake and exercise habits. They can also suffer from hip dysplasia. Owners of Scottish Deerhounds should be vigilant in watching for any signs of these health concerns, and should take their dog to the vet if they suspect that something is wrong. Thankfully, most Scottish Deerhounds lead healthy lives and do not suffer from these health problems, but it is important to be aware of them nonetheless.

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Hip Dysplasia

This genetic condition can cause the joint to become loose and unstable, which can lead to pain and arthritis. Dogs with hip dysplasia may have difficulty walking or running, and may be reluctant to jump or climb stairs. There is no cure for hip dysplasia, but there are a number of treatments available that can help improve the dog’s quality of life. The Scottish Deerhound is one of several breeds that are predisposed to hip dysplasia. If you are considering adopting a Scottish Deerhound, it is important to ask the breeder if the dog’s parents have been screened for hip dysplasia.

Bloat

Deerhounds are particularly prone to bloat, which is a potentially fatal condition that can occur when the dog’s stomach twists. This problem is most common in deep-chested breeds like the Deerhound, and it can be caused by eating too much or too quickly, drinking a lot of water after eating, exercising strenuously after eating, or being anxious. There are some things you can do to help prevent your Deerhound from getting bloat, including feeding him several small meals throughout the day instead of one large one, making sure he drinks plenty of water, and avoiding strenuous exercise right after eating.

Maintenance

Activity

The Scottish Deerhound needs a lot of activity. They need at least an hour of vigorous exercise every day. If they don’t get enough exercise, they can become restless and destructive. A lack of activity can also lead to health problems, such as obesity and joint problems. For those very reasons, the Scottish Deerhound is not the best dog for people who lead sedentary lifestyles. They need people who will take them for walks, runs, and hikes. It’s also important to have a large yard or acreage where they can run around and explore. If you can’t provide enough exercise for the Scottish Deerhound, it’s best to find another breed of dog.

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Grooming

When it comes to grooming, Scottish Deerhounds are low-maintenance. In general, the Scottish Deerhound should be bathed only when necessary. However, they will need to be brushed every week or two to keep their coat healthy and free of mats. Start by brushing the dog’s entire body, using a slicker brush or a metal comb. Be sure to pay special attention to the areas around the ears, neck, and tail, as these are where most mats tend to form. If you do find any mats in the dog’s coat, use a metal comb or a pair of scissors to carefully cut them out. Avoid pulling at the mats, as this can damage the dog’s hair.

Trimming

In addition to brushing, the Scottish Deerhound will also need to be trimmed occasionally. The hair on their feet, legs, and under their tail should be trimmed every few months. Use scissors to trim the hair around the dog’s eyes and ears, but be careful not to cut too close to the skin. If you’re not comfortable trimming the dog’s hair yourself, take them to a professional groomer.

Cost of a Scottish Deerhound Puppy

The cost of a Scottish Deerhound puppy can vary depending on the breeder, but it should be noted that this breed can be quite costly to purchase. Typically, they cost around $1,000. Some breeders may charge more or less depending on the individual dog’s characteristics and pedigree. It is important to do your research before purchasing a Scottish Deerhound puppy to ensure you are finding a reputable and ethical breeder.

History

The Scottish Deerhound is a beautiful breed of dog that hails from the Scottish Highlands. Its exact origin is unknown, but it is believed that the breed traces its ancestry back to the ancient Irish Wolfhounds, but the modern Scottish Deerhound was developed around the 1800s. These dogs were used for hunting deer, hare, and boar; and they were prized for their speed, agility, and strength. The Scottish Deerhound has been also used as a personal escort by British monarchs, and was once known as the “Royal Dog of Scotland”. The breed was almost extinct by the end of the 19th century, but has been revived in recent years and is now enjoyed by many dog enthusiasts.

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Fun Facts

  • The Scottish Deerhound is the national dog of Scotland.
  • They are one of the oldest breeds of hound in the world, and were first bred in the Scottish Highlands over 2000 years ago.
  • They are the tallest of all the sighthound breeds, and can weigh up to 85 pounds.
  • They can run at speeds up to 45 miles per hour.
  • In 2021, a Scottish Deerhound named Claire won best in show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. She was the first Scottish Deerhound to win this prestigious award.

Summary

Scottish Deerhounds are a large breed of dog and as such, they require a lot of exercise and space. They are not suited for apartment living or homes without a large yard. If you are able to provide the necessary care for a Scottish Deerhound, then they can be a wonderful addition to your family. They are intelligent, loyal, and loving dogs that are sure to bring you years of happiness.


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