Scottish Deerhound

Breed Profile

The Scottish Deerhound , known as the Deerhound, is a large-sized breed of hound (a sighthound). Once upon a time it used to be bred to hunt the Red Deer (coursing deer) and owned primarily by nobility. Coursing deer is an old hunting technique that is rarely used today. This technique involved bringing the dog as close to the deer as possible and then releasing the dog to chase its prey. The Scottish Deerhound is a robust and a very quick and agile breed

Temperament

The Scottish Deerhound is gentle and very friendly. The breed is famed for being obedient, dignified and keen to please. It is however a sighthound by nature which has been selected for generations to pursue game. Consequently, most Deerhounds will have strong penchant for  chasing.

Color & Coat

Coat: The breed dons a harsh and crisp coat, which is about 3 to 4 inches long on the body. Such qualities make the coat weather (and dirt) resistant quality, which is a considerable advantage in cold, damp climates.

Color: Blue Gray, Brindle, Gray, Gray Brindle, Blue

Living Environment

Scottish Deerhounds can fare OK in an apartment if they are sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors. This is a suitable dog breed for children. It is also friendly toward other pets and strangers. The owner should be bear in mind that they have an instinct to chase and therefore should not be unleashed in an unsafe area.

Health

The serious health issues in this breed include cardiomyopathy, osteosarcoma, bloat, stomach or splenic torsion, called Gastric dilatation volvulus, and cystinuria.