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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound is described as a rough-coated Greyhound, though he is much
larger in size. This slim sight-hound has a long coat, mustache, beard and mane.
The muzzle is pointed and the head is long. The hair on the skull should be long
and softer than the rest of the coat. The coat comes in various shades of gray,
fawn or brindle. A small amount of white is found on the chest, feet and tail. The
ears are set high and folded back like a Greyhound's. The ears should be soft and
glossy, like a mouse's coat to the touch. The teeth should meet at a scissor-like
bite. The neck of this breed must be strong as it should be able to hold a stag.
The eyes are dark brown, brown or hazel. A very light eye is not liked. The chest
is deep and of good girth, and the topline is slightly curved. The feet are close
and compact. The tail is long, covered with hair and reaches down to the ground.
The tail is curved when in motion or excited.
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Temperament
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The Deerhound has the gentle, quiet nature of most sight-hounds, silently curling
up or tiptoeing around the house. But once outside, their urge to run will carry
them great distances in a short period of time. They adore their family in a quiet,
dignified manner. They make good pets but the cost of feeding and providing the
necessary space will always keep the breed limited. They are excellent with children
and just love everyone, making them poor watchdogs. They can be a bit willful and
slow to obey commands. They are friendly with other dogs, but should not be trusted
with non-canine pets. They have a very unusual cry.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 28-32" ; Weight: 75-110 lbs.
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Health Problems
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This breed is prone to bloat. Feed two or three small meals per day instead of a
large meal. Make sure it rests after a large meal.
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Living Conditions
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Deerhounds are not recommended for apartment living. They need a large yard.
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Exercise
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This active breed needs regular exercise but do not let them off their lead as they
are exceptionally fast and love to chase. They make excellent jogging companions.
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Life Expectancy
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Less than 10 years
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Grooming
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This breed needs to be extensively groomed. The harsh, wiry coat needs to be trimmed
and stripped. They are average shedders.
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Origin
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In the harsh environment of the Scottish Highlands, the early silken-skinned African
Greyhounds were at a great disadvantage. They were probably crossed with shaggy
native breeds to acquire weather protection. Beneath that wiry coat remains an almost
classic Greyhound outline. It wasn't until the early 1800s that two brothers, Archibald
and Duncan (Lord Colonsay) McNeill, undertook the task of reviving the great Scottish
hound. Queen Victoria also became a patron. The breed was brought to North America
during the Victorian resurrection of the late 1800s. The Scottish Deerhound is recognized
by the AKC and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC Hound, UKC Sighthound and Pariah Dog
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