Scottish Deerhound: Scottish deerhound was once known as ‘Royal Dog of Scotland’ is a large sized shaggy sighthound almost like greyhound but, heavy boned than greyhounds and can even outspace them in terms of speed in rough terrains. This magnificent animal as said to be royal dog is an expensive breed to be kept, true to their title.
Scottish Deerhound Dog Breed Origin
The origin of deerhound is not clear and somewhat lost in ancient times but, they are believed to be present before middle ages and Christianity. No one below earl rank could own a Scottish deerhound in Scotland. From 16th or 17th century the particular name deerhound started to be taken. They were used for red deer hunting by coursing. American Kennel Club recognised Scottish deerhound in 1866.
Scottish Deerhound Dog Breed Physical Appearance
It looks like greyhound but, is bigger and heavy boned with rough and wiry medium length coat. Ears are small and rose ears which are folded and carried back of head. The head is long and flat tapering towards muzzle. Tail is long and carried low almost reaching ground. The coat colour comes in various shades of grey to sandy red.
Scottish Deerhound Dog Breed Size
Height
- Male – 30 to 32 inches
- Female – 28 inches or more
Weight
- Male – 85 to 110 pounds
- Female – 75 to 95 pounds
FCI classification
- Classification – Group 10, Section 2, Rough- haired sighthound
- FCI- standard 164
Country of origin – Scotland
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Scottish Deerhound Dog Breed Temperament
Scottish deerhounds are very friendly, gentle and eager to please make them very suitable for companion dogs. Due to hunting background they have very keen instinct to chase. They need at least good exercise once every day. They don’t like rough handling. Adults are calm and polite to anyone. It is little bit stubborn and sensitive so, need a firm owner with positive attitude. They are good with other dogs.
Scottish Deerhound Dog Breed Training
As these dogs are sensitive, they need positive reinforcement during training. Due to slightly independent the training should be done by firm handler. They are slow to house breaking so, should be crate trained till they fully get house trained. Early socialisation is must for any dog. They need large fenced and safe area for galloping satisfaction. They are easily trainable. Training should be short as deerhound can’t focus for a longer time. They need proper motivation to learn and it is different for different dogs in this breed.
- Scottish Deerhound Life Span: Life expectancy is little bit short of 8 to 9 years.
- Litter size is of 4 to 14 puppies.
Scottish Deerhound Dog Breed Health Challenges
Around 8% of deerhound population suffer from heart diseases which are common in other sighthound breeds. Bloating is another common issue in deep chested dogs like sighthounds so, is common in this breed. Bone cancer is another common occurrence in this breed. Other ailments are liver shunt, siezures, blood clotting disease and allergies. Kidney diseases occur only in males.
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