Scottish Deerhound
AKC & CKC Hound Group
Origin & History
The Scottish Deerhound is one of the most ancient breeds, dating back to the Highlands of Scotland where they were bred by clan chieftains to hunt red deer. Known as the "Royal Dog of Scotland," these massive hounds were so valued that for centuries no one below the rank of earl could own one. Their lineage may trace back to the hounds brought by the Phoenicians to Britain around 1000 BCE.
By the 18th century, the breed nearly became extinct as deer hunting declined, but was revived by enthusiasts including Sir Walter Scott. Today, while no longer used for hunting, they remain a living symbol of Scottish heritage - combining breathtaking size with gentle dignity in what many consider the most majestic of all dog breeds.
With their shaggy coat and noble bearing, Scottish Deerhounds embody the romantic spirit of the Scottish Highlands while maintaining their quiet, affectionate nature.
Stats:
- Height: 28-32 inches
- Weight: 75-110 pounds
- Coat: Harsh, wiry outer coat with softer undercoat
- Colors: Blue-gray, gray, brindle, yellow, or red fawn
- Lifespan: 8-11 years
| Traits: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Energy: Moderate; needs regular exercise but calm indoors | ✓ | ||||
| Easy To Train: Intelligent but independent; requires patience | ✓ | ||||
| Grooming: Minimal; weekly brushing and occasional hand-stripping | ✓ | ||||
| Family Dog: Gentle and devoted; excellent with children | ✓ | ||||
| Watchdog: Minimal; rarely barks and not protective | ✓ | ||||
| Beginner Friendly: Challenging due to massive size and sensitivity | ✓ | ||||
| Prey Drive: Extremely high; will chase small animals | ✓ | ||||
| Barking: Quiet; rarely vocalizes | ✓ | ||||
| Good with other dogs: Gentle and polite but may ignore unfamiliar dogs | ✓ |
Health Concerns:
- Cardiomyopathy: Heart muscle disease
- Osteosarcoma: Bone cancer common in large breeds
- Bloat (Gastric Torsion): Life-threatening emergency
- Hypothyroidism: Underactive thyroid gland
- Liver Shunt: Congenital blood vessel abnormality
- FVII Deficiency: Bleeding disorder
- Cystinuria: Kidney stone formation disorder
Please check the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) and parent breed clubs for health information.
Glossary of general canine health conditions.