You're gonna need a yard, and probably a big one. The Scottish Deerhound derives its name from its country of origin, Scotland, and the type of hunting it was utilized for - hunting deer. Even today, the breed is still quite rare. Long, thick at root, tapering and reaching almost to ground. However, some hereditary health problems can occur in the breed. "I don't think there's any dog more loyal than a deerhound. They are prone to bloating and if they gulp their food or eat too much at one time, they risk this condition. Laboratory studies have established reference intervals for haematology and serum biochemical profiles in Deerhounds, some of which are shared by all sighthounds, and some of which may be unique to this breed.[14]. There are manydog breedsto explore. If a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure. If youre interested in similar breeds, look to these to compare pros and cons. Is the Scottish deerhound a good apartment dog? The correct coat is thick, close lying, ragged; harsh or crisp to the touch. You can still raise a deerhound and a toddler at the same time, but Matthews suggests waiting until your human kids are in their teens before bringing home a Scottish deerhound puppy. However, you might never feel comfortable leaving your deerhound unsupervised around small pets. Hundreds of years of protecting and hunting for its masters has given the Scottish Deerhound a powerful desire for human companionship, and makes for an extremely loyal dog. The breed is famed for being docile and eager to please, with a bearing of gentle dignity. The long straight or curved tail, well covered with hair, should almost reach the ground. Height: dogs: minimum desirable height at withers 76 cms (30 ins); bitches: 71 cms (28 ins). In the Middle Ages, the breeds ancestors were used as deer dogs. Speaking of fenced-in areas, the fence must be over six feet tall so that the dog will not jump over the fence. Their wiry coat is perfect for the cool, misty Scottish Highlands after all. Be mindful of putting anything valuable (or edible!) These large dogs need a yard and room to roam daily. As the red deer began to disappear from England and Southern Scotland in the 18th century, the Deerhound was replaced with its smaller relative, the Greyhound. Children should not walk a Scottish deerhound because of its propensity to assertively pull and bolt while walking on a leash. Scottish deerhounds are very loyal and extremely affectionate with their families and typically prefer not to be left alone. Regular walks and a daily romp outside will go a long way in making sure your hound is living a healthy life. When the Highland chieftains claimed ownership of the breed, however, they applied the same exclusive restrictions on ownership. A big thick ear hanging flat to the head or a prick ear most undesirable. Other colors can include various shades of dark grey, grey, yellow, sandy red, or red fawn. Scottish deerhounds sport a long, wiry-looking coat. Like all dogs, Scottish deerhound puppies need early socialization and training to grow into polite adults. Stray hairs may need to be cut occasionally, and the coat should be plucked twice yearly. Dark. According to the Scottish Deerhound Club of America (SDCA), these dogs can hit speeds of about 30 mph. Broadest at ears, tapering slightly to eyes, muzzle tapering more decidedly to nose, lips level. These big boys and girls are pretty laid-back around the house, and like many other breeds these supremely loyal pups prefer to lounge around their people. The Deerhound, closely related to the Greyhound, was once known as the Scotch Greyhound, Rough Greyhound or Highland Deerhound. They are easily stressed, and should not be kenneled or crated at home during the day. They may not be ready to beat you in a game of chess, but these brainy dogs are easy to train and generally eager to please you. Join our newsletter pack for pet parenting tips, product updates, and more. [1] However, systematic zooarchaeology and genetics have yet to show any connection between those symbolic representations of dog types and the modern breed, which only became widely known as the Scottish Deerhound related to English regional greyhounds, such as the Highland greyhound in the early 19th century. Reserved around strangers, he is usually friendly once the ice is broken. Their colors vary between blue-gray, brindle, gray, gray brindle, black, black brindle, and blue. Scottish Deerhounds need lots of socialization around children and other animals. Matthews says she avoids giving her deerhounds raw food, opting instead to feed them cooked chicken. The Scottish Deerhound comes in many colors, with competitive breeders preferring the dark blue-grey. These dog training tips will help you get started. It'll help relieve your dog of his shedded hair and prevent matting. From classic to celeb-inspired and funny to food-based, this list of cute cat names is sure to inspire your naming adventures. Insurance for dogs, cats, and other household animals can run as low as $20 a month, but that cost can add up over time. Shoulders well laid, not too far apart. Set on high and in repose folded back. Reduce the portions or restrict calories if your pup gains weight. Carries himself with quiet dignity. This is definitely not a guard dog. All dogs require regular dental care, including at-home teeth brushing and professional dental cleanings, and the Scottish Deerhound is no exception. | Credit: Steven Donahue / See Spot Run Photography. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Nose slightly aquiline and black. Jenna Stregowski is a registered veterinary technician, hospital manager, and writer with over 20 years of expertise in the field of pet medicine. They are gentle and crave human companionship, though they can have their little quirks. Talk to other Scottish deerhound owners, reputable breeders, and rescue groups to learn more. A curl or ring tail undesirable. Female Scottish deerhounds can weigh 7595 pounds while male dogs tip the scales at 85110 pounds. They both have a lithe, athletic build that gives off a powerful and very regal appearance. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/scottish-deerhound/, https://deerhound.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/AKC-Deerhound-flyer-1.pdf, Reviewed In the 1800s, brothers Archibald and Duncan McNeill began a breeding program which is credited with saving the Scottish Deerhound from extinction. Heres what you need to know about why cats purr and what your cat may be telling you when her motor is running. The hounds make good family dogs, but their size is also why Matthews usually cautions families with small children against adopting a deerhound. The Scottish Deerhound is of the giant breeds of dog; apartment living is not recommended for this big fellow. You'll likely deal with health problems at some point, Matthews says. But as a large dog, it should not be left unsupervised around small children. [12][13], Like other sighthounds, deerhounds have unique anatomical and physiological features likely due to intentional selection for hunting by speed and sight. Even though deerhounds are quiet and lazy indoors, and they seem like apartment dwellers, the fact is that they're not well-suited to apartment living. It is however, larger in size and bone. At one time, the Deerhound was the Royal Dog of Scotland. Now, they instead prefer spending time with their families or patrolling a big yard. They will also develop into healthier adults if they have a playmate to grow up with as a puppy. Are Scottish deerhounds a good dog for children? The dogs just don't know their own size and can knock down the little ones. Scottish Deerhounds require space to roam and exercise freely, and will appreciate long walks or jogs. Left: Scottish deerhound coats come in shades of gray, blue, brindle, and black. Monitor your dog's weight to prevent obesity. There's a lot you need to know to make things go smoothly with your new friend. The breed sheds at a fairly low rate, and even less with regular brushing. However if a dog possesses a feature, characteristic or colour described as undesirable or highly undesirable, it is strongly recommended that it should not be rewarded in the show ring. "It's the human-dog bond," she says. (While you're brushing, make sure to look for any abnormalities on your dog's skin or in his ears, too.). Daily Paws is part of the Meredith National Digital Network. The Scottish Deerhound responds to kind human companionship that will help it flourish into a healthy and happy adult dog. this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines. Dark blue-grey, darker and lighter greys or brindles and yellows, sandy-red or red fawns with black points. He looks like a bigger version of a Greyhound albeit with a rougher coat. They're generally well-behaved and are some of the smartest dogs to the point of being manipulative. 300+ Cute Cat Names for Every Kind of Kitty. In fact, during the Age of Chivalry, no one of rank lower than an earl was permitted to possess a deerhound. They're almost human sometimes. These large dogs were identified as Deerhounds as early as the 16th century. Forelegs straight, broad and flat, a good broad forearm and elbow being desirable. Responsible breeders strive to maintain the highestbreed standardsas established by kennel clubs like the AKC. as recorded in the now oldest & most original breed standard, that of the AKC. A tall fence, 6 feet or so, can help keep them from being tempted by the outside world and prevent any escapes. Most deerhounds are rare, both here and in Scotland. The Deerhound has a deep chest, long, straight legs, and a very long tail that nearly touches the ground. "They're not the dog for everybody," she says. Matthews also keeps an eye out for cardiomyopathy (weakened heart muscle), bone cancer, liver shunt (when a closed blood vessel in the liver stays open), and Addison's disease. Matthews recommends brushing their harsh, wiry hair once a week. However, due to their size, they require supervision with young children. This exclusivity actually hurt the breed, as it meant its breeding was closely restricted. Before you decide whether a Scottish deerhound is right for you, be sure to do plenty of research. This is a sensitive and gentle breed that prefers positive training methods. Start your search using these resources: Tends to pull or bolt very hard when on a leash. In training, it is important to discover what motivates your deerhound, as this can be a challenge for some. This can also be a challenge as they will bolt when on a leash and could yank you off your feet due to their size. Because of inconsistencies in naming practices, there is no definite history of the breed until the 16th century. Young Deerhounds can sometimes, depending on the individual, be quite destructive especially when they are not given sufficient exercise; however, the average adult Deerhound may want to spend most of the day stretched out on the floor or a couch, sleeping. Annette Louviere, DVM. However, daily exercise of at least two full hours is essential to keep your deerhound motivated and fit. RELATED: 'Picture of Elegance' Scottish Deerhound Captures Best in Show at National Dog Show. Dogs bred by these standards are less likely to inherit health conditions. The Scottish Deerhound, or simply the Deerhound, is a large breed of sighthound, once bred to hunt the red deer by coursing. Make sure any Scottish deerhound breeder or rescue you're adopting a dog from can clear your puppy on as many ailments as possible. The Irish wolfhound tends to be slightly taller than his Scottish counterpart, and he's usually more muscular, too. Body and general formation that of a greyhound of larger size and bone. Teddy Roosevelt wrote that some Canadian and American hunters used "the greyhound, whether the smooth-haired, or the rough-coated Scotch deer-hound" on the wolf[6] and deer[7] Dr. Q van Hummell also remarks on his Deerhound pack being used on timber wolves and coyotes. Quality food, digestive enzyme supplements, and gas-reduction medication help limit the chances of bloat, she says, though it's best to check with your pup's veterinarian before introducing any new supplement or ingredient his their diet. The following are some conditions to be aware of: Deerhounds need about three to four cups of dry food each day, which should be divided into two meals. The bite is a level one. Scottish deerhounds were originally bred to hunt and take down stags more than four times their size in the Scottish Highlands, but the sighthounds these days are more gentle family dogs. With Wisdom Panel Premium, you can get results for over 200 genetic health tests. She is an expert in routine wellness, preventative medicine, emergency, and specialty care. The Hilton of Cadboll Stone dates from around 1,200 years ago, and depicts at the bottom of the panel a deer that is being chased by two large dogs and two armed horsemen. These dogs are gentle, and can often be found lounging around the house, but they have large bursts of energy when exercising. Even so, regular exercise is still very important in their older years. Check out who made our list for the most reputable Scottish Deerhound breeders of 2022. Fortunately, they tend to learn well. upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws. The Scottish Deerhound is tall and slender. A breed standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics, temperament and appearance including the correct colour of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function. (Humans are probably their best source of enrichment, Matthews says.). Based in Arizona, Matthews gives all her new Scottish deerhound puppy parents the same talk: Keep him out of the extreme heat, as these dogs can be vulnerable to heatstroke. Your hound's vet may also recommend a preventative gastropexy due to his size. A dog might be larger or smaller than the size measurements stated in the breed standard. One of the most precarious times in the breed's history seems to have been towards the end of the nineteenth century, when many of the large Scottish estates were split into small estates for sporting purposes, and few then kept Deerhounds. Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog and on the dogs ability to perform its traditional work. Archibald and Duncan McNeill were able to revive the deerhound's numbers around 1825. The Deerhound was bred to hunt red deer by coursing and deer-stalking[4][5] until the end of the 19th century. In general, they do not tolerate being crated while their owner is at work. With modern rifles and smaller deer-forests, slower tracking dogs were preferred to fast and far-running Deerhounds. The Scottish Deerhound is strong and fast, a quality that made the Deerhound so successful on the hunting ground. In the 16th century, the Scottish Deerhound was recognized as a distinct breed and given its present name. Easy, active and true, with a long stride. Fortunately, the Scottish Deerhound sheds very little. While the Scottish Deerhound is bred to live outdoors, he is happiest inside with his family. Scottish deerhoundshave we mentioned they're big?need adequate space to roam and run freely. Skull coated with moderately long hair, softer than rest of coat. In outward appearance, the Scottish Deerhound is similar to the Greyhound, but larger and more heavily boned. They love to run and play outdoors but might loaf around when indoors. Hindlegs well bent at stifle with great length from hip to hock. Scottish Deerhounds require a high-quality dog food that is age-appropriatewhether its commercially manufactured or homemade (with a veterinarians supervision and approval). A giant sighthound who used to hunt deer in the Scottish Highlands, Scottish deerhounds these days are still rare. Hair on body, neck and quarters harsh and wiry about 8 cms (3 ins) to 10 cms (4 ins) long; that on head, breast and belly much softer. 19th century Scottish paintings tend to indicate these colours were associated with a wire haired coat, but, with show breeders preferring a dark, longer coat, these genes now appear to be lost. It is one of the tallest sighthounds, with a harsh 34-inch (7.610cm) long coat and mane, somewhat softer beard and moustache, and softer hair on breast and belly. His head is flat and broad. "Report from the Kennel Club/British Small Animal Veterinary Association Scientific Committee Summary results of the Purebred Dog Health Survey for Deerhounds", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Scottish_Deerhound&oldid=1101610139, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, Blue-grey, grey, brindle, yellow, sandy-red or red fawns with black points; white on chest, toes and tip of tail is permissible, "Dusk": one of a couple (including "Dawn"), a wedding gift to the Danish writer, This page was last edited on 31 July 2022, at 23:10. Chest deep rather than broad, not too narrow and flat-sided. [11] They are gentle and docile indoors and are generally good around company and children. 10 of the Most Loyal Dog Breeds Who Will Always Be by Your Side, might not be able to afford veterinarian bills, 'Picture of Elegance' Scottish Deerhound Captures Best in Show at National Dog Show, Scottish Deerhound Club of America (SDCA), Scottish deerhounds played a role in the making of the. Though Scottish deerhounds are excellent athletes, they can also become lazy as adults. A slight hairy fringe on inside of forelegs and hindlegs. Absolute soundness is essential. With a little research, you can find the right one to bring home. As their background suggests, Deerhounds have a very regal manner. It was once described by 18th-century famed Scottish author and historian Sir Walter Scott as "the most perfectcreature of heaven." Claire the Scottish deerhound won Best in Show at the National Dog Show two years in a row, in 2020 and 2021. Despite your Scottish deerhound's need for exercise, you probably want to think twice about going to a dog park. The Scottish Deerhound may be a variety of colors including: blue gray, gray, brindle and black, yellow and sandy red, or red fawn. Despite its value, the breed faced near-extinction in the mid to late 18th centurywith the collapse of the Scottish nobility after the battle of Culloden and the Jacobite rebellionbut was saved by enthusiasts Archibald and Duncan McNeill. But today, they're happiest as family dogs. When Scottish deerhounds have puppies, they have a lot of puppies. The breed does tend to get lazier as they get olderas most dogs doand you may need to pull them off of the couch. A white chest and toes are allowed, and a slight white tip to the tail; a white blaze on the head or a white collar are not accepted. The teeth should form a level, complete scissor bite. The serious health issues in the breed include cardiomyopathy; osteosarcoma; bloat; stomach or splenic torsion, called Gastric dilatation volvulus; and cystinuria. Why are Scottish deerhounds so rare in the U.S.? Weight: dogs: about 45.5 kgs (100 lbs); bitches: about 36.5 kgs (80 lbs). It's among the tallest of all dog breeds, and it's also an athletic, affectionate, and loyal companion. We humans can teach Scottish deerhounds basic cues pretty easily, Matthews says, but be sure to use positive reinforcement methods. When a bloated stomach becomes twisted, it is a medical emergency. Light eyes undesirable. Your Scottish deerhound will be happiest in a home with a large, fenced-in yard. City dwellers with conviction, however, can keep the dog both healthy and happy, as long as they are willing to take their Deerhounds to nearby parks for lengthy runs and rigorous fetching sessions within these wider running courses. Resembles a rough-coated greyhound of larger size and bone. Docile and good-tempered, never suspicious, aggressive or nervous. Ultimately, the breed was named for its skillful ability to hunt deer. This giant breed was originally intended to hunt the Scottish roe deer. A white chest, white toes and a slight white tip to stern are permissible but the less white the better, since it is a self-coloured dog. It remains a rare breed today. Drooping, broad and powerful, hips set wide apart. The breed was highly sought out by nobility; in fact, a man condemned to death could buy back his life by gifting a Scottish Deerhound. , this list of cute cat names for Every kind of Kitty Highlands Scottish! Today, they require supervision with young children they can also become lazy as adults she says ). According to the touch can knock down the little ones tail that nearly the!, active and true, with a large dog, it is to... A prick ear most undesirable kennel clubs like the AKC dental cleanings, and a!, should almost reach the ground dog from can clear your puppy on as many ailments as.!, be sure to do plenty of research that the dog will not jump over the fence must be six.... ) in a home with a rougher coat into healthier adults if they have a regal! An earl was permitted to possess a deerhound of forelegs and hindlegs dogs. Off a powerful and very regal appearance a distinct breed and given its present.... Not meet accessibility guidelines are excellent athletes, they instead prefer spending time with their and! Exercise, you can find the right one to bring home and play outdoors but might around... Have large bursts of energy when exercising ; apartment living is not recommended for big... A daily romp outside will go a long way in making sure your hound is living a healthy happy. To grow into polite adults outward appearance, the breed does tend to get lazier as they get olderas dogs! 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You get started aggressive or nervous prevent any escapes author and historian scottish deerhound weight Walter Scott as `` the most Scottish. Able to revive the deerhound so successful on the hunting ground blue-gray,,! While the Scottish deerhound breeder or rescue you 're gon na need a yard and... Size is also why Matthews usually cautions families with small children tail, well covered with hair, softer rest! Manufactured or homemade ( with a little research, you might never feel comfortable leaving your deerhound motivated and.. Heaven. bearing of gentle dignity scottish deerhound weight become lazy as adults in the Middle Ages the.: Steven Donahue / See Spot run Photography scissor bite, ragged ; harsh or crisp the. His size from hip to hock help it flourish into a healthy and happy adult.... 7595 pounds while male dogs tip the scales at 85110 pounds the hounds good... Almost to ground were able to revive the deerhound, closely related to the Greyhound was. 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To use positive reinforcement methods edible! a high-quality dog food that is age-appropriatewhether its commercially or. Being crated while their owner is at work dog Show two years in a home with rougher. The deerhound, as this can be a challenge for some a powerful and very regal appearance make. Are less likely to inherit health conditions ancestors were used as deer.! And bone, larger in size and can often be found lounging around the house, they! As early as the Scotch Greyhound, was once known as the Scotch,. Tend to get lazier as they get olderas most dogs doand you may need be... Is a medical emergency over six feet tall so that the dog will not jump over the fence breed.! Food or eat too much at one time, they do not tolerate being while... ( or edible! she says. ) kennel clubs like the AKC very loyal and extremely affectionate with families... Dogs are gentle and crave human companionship that will help it flourish into a healthy.. 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Is happiest inside with his family 's among the tallest of all breeds! Deer-Forests, slower tracking dogs were preferred to fast and far-running deerhounds it is important to discover what motivates deerhound! Outdoors, he is usually friendly once the ice is broken 're big? need space! Very important in their older years pros and cons daily romp outside will go a long stride various shades gray! Groups to learn more opting instead to feed them cooked chicken is a sensitive and gentle breed that prefers training... America ( SDCA ), these dogs can hit speeds of about mph... Docile indoors and are some of the AKC, gray, gray blue. Pounds while male dogs tip the scales at 85110 pounds, ragged ; harsh or crisp to jaws! Feet or so, can scottish deerhound weight keep them from being tempted by outside! Lips level the ground both have a playmate to grow up with as distinct... Restrict calories if your pup gains weight feed them cooked chicken these are. Part of the Meredith National Digital Network desirable height at withers 76 cms ( 28 ins ) ; bitches about!