Scottish Deerhound
About Scottish Deerhound
Scottish Deerhounds are perfect for families that appreciate a gentle, noble companion with a regal aura. These elegant dogs are instantly recognizable by their tall, lanky frames and their beautiful, wiry coats that come in shades of gray or brindle. Known for their calm demeanor, they thrive in homes where they are surrounded by love and affection, making them great for households with children and other pets; just keep an eye on their size around the little ones.
With an energy level that suits their hunting heritage, they need about 60 to 90 minutes of daily exercise, which they enjoy through long walks and lively play sessions. Their coats require a good brushing a few times a week to keep them looking their best, although they don’t shed excessively. Training a Deerhound is a rewarding experience as they respond well to positive reinforcement, though patience is key due to their sensitive nature.
Keep an eye out for common health issues like heart conditions and bloat, and regular vet checkups are a must. Standing at 28 to 32 inches tall and weighing between 75 to 110 pounds, Deerhounds are gentle giants with a life expectancy of 8 to 11 years. If you’re ready for a loyal, graceful companion who loves social interaction, the Scottish Deerhound might just be your perfect match.
Interesting Facts
1. The Scottish Deerhound is one of the oldest breeds known to man. The breed dates back to the 16th century in Scotland where they were used for hunting red deer.
2. The Scottish Deerhound is characteristically friendly, gentle, and extremely sociable. They coexist well with humans and animals alike.
3. These dogs are naturally athletic and agile. They were bred for endurance and speed, helpful in hunting deer.
4. Despite their athleticism, Scottish Deerhounds also enjoy periods of relaxation and can often behave like couch potatoes indoors.
5. The Scottish Deerhound's coat requires regular brushing and stripping to keep it clean and looking its best. They have a rough, wiry coat that is typically blue-gray in color.
6. The Scottish Deerhound is quite large, with males reaching heights of up to 32 inches at the shoulder and weighing up to 110 pounds.
7. This breed is known for being quite sensitive. Harsh training methods do not work well with them. They respond best to gentle, consistent training.
8. They have a lifespan of approximately 8-11 years, which is considered average for a dog of their size. They are generally a healthy breed, but can be prone to certain health conditions like cardiomyopathy and osteosarcoma.
9. Scottish Deerhounds are not typically recommended for apartment living due to their significant exercise needs and large size.
10. In the past, Scottish Deerhounds were considered a breed only for the noble and royal classes. Owning one of these dogs was considered a sign of nobility.
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