Deerhound

The Deerhound is a majestic and large Scottish breed, instantly recognisable by its rough, shaggy coat and towering stature. Known historically as the 'Royal Dog of Scotland', this breed combines grace with power, having been bred as a sighthound to pursue deer with incredible speed and endurance. Despite its grandeur, the Deerhound is a gentle giant, renowned for a calm and dignified temperament that makes it a loyal and affectionate family companion.

Traditionally used for hunting in the Scottish Highlands, Deerhounds today excel as devoted pets for owners with active, outdoor lifestyles who can meet their substantial exercise and space needs. Their imposing size and wiry coat require committed care, a spacious environment, and a lifestyle that blends daily vigorous walks with ample opportunities for free running in secure areas.

Deerhounds are best suited for experienced owners or those familiar with large sighthounds, due to their strong prey drive and specific grooming and health care demands. They form deep bonds with their families, delight in gentle interaction, and respond well to patient, positive training methods. Their naturally quiet and laid-back disposition, combined with periods of playful energy, make them a quintessential countryside companion.

Perfect For

Owners who have large secure gardens or rural access, enthusiasts of sighthound breeds like the Greyhound or Irish Wolfhound looking for a gentle but active family dog, experienced handlers comfortable managing a large, powerful hound, and families wanting an affectionate, low-vocality breed with a calm indoors presence.

Key Considerations

Their large size entails higher food and insurance costs; they require consistent early socialisation and training to manage prey instincts and ensure good behaviour. Deerhounds are sensitive to loud noises and harsh discipline, needing a calm approach. They are unsuitable for urban apartments or small homes without secure outdoor space and are not ideal for novice owners due to their complex needs.

The Deerhound has ancient roots connected to sighthounds hunting across northern Britain since at least the 3rd Century AD, with distinct references emerging in the 15th Century recognising lineages related to English Greyhounds, Irish Wolfhounds, and Highland variants considered Deerhounds. These were robust hunting dogs, particularly the Highland Deerhound with its heavier coat, bred to chase red deer and work alongside hunters in Scotland.

Early Development

The breed emerged from crosses of Rough Greyhounds, Scotch Greyhounds, Irish Greyhounds, and others, with working lines diverging into Lowland (lighter coated) and Highland (taller, harsher coat) varieties by the 18th century. Their role evolved with the introduction of firearms, shifting towards coursing and tracking wounded game. The Deerhound’s numbers declined sharply in the 19th century with changes in hunting practices and estate divisions, nearly risking extinction during World War II due to scarce resources and culling.

Modern Recognition

Breed revival began mid-1830s through breeding efforts by Archibald and Duncan McNeill, incorporating bloodlines from breeds like the Bloodhound and Borzoi to enhance scenting and elegance. The Deerhound Club was founded in 1886, with a formal breed standard established in 1892 and later refined in 1948. Today, the Deerhound is officially recognised by The Kennel Club but remains on their vulnerable native breeds list due to limited population, necessitating prospective owners to register interest with breeders.

Size and Build: Males typically stand between 76 cm tall at the withers, weighing around 45.5 kg, while females measure about 71 cm and weigh approximately 36.5 kg. The Deerhound is a very large, elegant dog, built with a strong bone structure and muscular frame reminiscent of an enlarged Greyhound, balanced yet powerful with a deep chest and well-arched loins.

Coat and Colours: The coat is harsh, rough, and shaggy, close-lying but ragged in appearance. Hair on the body, neck, and quarters is wiry and crisp, while the head, chest, and belly have softer hair. Accepted colours include Black & Grey, Blue Brindle, Blue Grey, Brindle, Dark Brindle, Dark Grey, Grey, and Grey Brindle. The coat requires regular grooming to maintain its distinctive texture.

Distinctive Features: The breed's head is long and somewhat flat on top, broad at the ears, with a tapering muzzle and black slightly aquiline nose. Ears are high-set, folded back when relaxed, raised but folded when alert, covered in glossy dark or black hair. Eyes are large, full, and dark hazel or brown, conveying a soft, gentle expression when relaxed and keen alertness otherwise. The tail is long, thick at the base, tapering to the tip, carried low or curved higher when moving.

Gender Differences: Males are generally larger and heavier, reflecting their protective and sometimes more dominant temperament. Females are slightly smaller but equally elegant. Both sexes maintain the calm and gentle disposition typical of the breed. Faults include woolly coats or exaggerations that affect function or health, as per Kennel Club breed standards.

The Deerhound is aptly nicknamed a ‘gentle giant’, exhibiting a calm, dignified, and affectionate nature within family settings. Despite its imposing size, it is surprisingly quiet, rarely barking, and known for a friendly if slightly reserved manner towards strangers. Their natural sensitivity makes harsh training methods counterproductive; they respond best to patient, gentle guidance with positive reinforcement.

Deerhounds excel in households with children, showing impressive patience and a natural affinity, though their adolescent clumsiness requires supervision to avoid accidental knocks. Their sighthound lineage brings a strong prey drive, necessitating careful control and secure environments, especially around livestock or smaller pets.

Generally low-energy indoors, Deerhounds enjoy bouts of playful activity then settle to restful siestas, perfectly suited to homes that can provide both exercise and quiet downtime. Although they are not typical watchdogs, they alert their owners to visitors with a unique vocalisation rather than habitual barking, maintaining a peaceful household ambience.

Core Personality Traits

Gentle, loyal, intelligent, sensitive, and dignified, with a strong instinct to bond closely with family members. Easily startled by loud noises and sudden changes, they thrive in calm environments.

Social Behavior

Generally amiable with other dogs and family pets, though due to hunting heritage, smaller animals require cautious introduction. They are selectively sociable, preferring familiar faces over strangers.

Working Instincts

Deerhounds demonstrate their coursing heritage with a swift chase instinct, quick to react to motion, and a natural athleticism. They relish activities like lure coursing, expressing their predatory drive in controlled settings.

Common Behavioral Challenges

Challenges include managing their prey drive to prevent chasing, sensitivity to noise potentially causing stress, and occasional stubbornness during training, all of which can be mitigated with early socialisation and consistent, gentle training practices.

Deerhounds are intelligent and eager to please, making them generally responsive to training when handled with understanding and patience. Early socialisation and consistency are essential to shape a well-rounded adult dog, considering their naturally sensitive disposition and potential stubbornness.

Puppy Training Priorities

The crucial first six months focus on socialising the puppy to different environments, people, and other animals after completing vaccinations. Establishing clear household rules and boundaries is important early on to prevent behavioural issues, alongside gentle introduction to basic commands like come, sit, stay, and heel.

Training Methods That Work

Positive reinforcement is key; treats, praise, and play motivate Deerhounds far more than harsh corrections, which can damage their trust. Short, engaging sessions help maintain their focus given their independent streak. Owners should foster a calm and fair environment to encourage obedience over time.

Advanced Training Potential

Deerhounds can excel in lure coursing, agility, and obedience competitions with the right foundation. Their natural coursing talent can be channelled into these activities to satisfy both mental and physical needs, promoting happiness and good health.

Common Training Mistakes

Owners often make the mistake of using heavy-handed methods or inconsistent commands, which can confuse or frighten a Deerhound. Allowing a lack of structure can lead to persistence of prey-driven behaviours and poor recall. Maintaining patience and a consistent routine avoids these pitfalls.

Despite their substantial size, Deerhounds are renowned for their gentleness around children, embracing the role of a patient and protective family member. Their calm demeanour and affectionate nature make them suitable companions for children of all ages when supervised appropriately.

Age-Specific Interactions

Toddlers must always be closely supervised around Deerhounds due to the risk of being accidentally knocked over by their towering frames and adolescent clumsiness. Older children can enjoy more interactive play, learning to respect the dog's size and energy limits.

Teaching Children Proper Interaction

It is vital to instruct children on safe and gentle ways to engage with Deerhounds, such as avoiding sudden movements and not pulling on their wiry coats or tails. Teaching children to recognise the dog’s body language helps prevent misunderstandings and promotes mutual respect.

Breed-Specific Considerations

Given their hunting background, Deerhounds have a natural prey drive which means smaller pets may require introductions supervised for safety. Their energy levels vary; they enjoy playful bursts but also need downtime, so children should learn when the dog needs rest.

Creating Safe Environments

Secure, spacious outdoor areas allow Deerhounds to roam freely, reducing the chance of boisterous indoor behaviour. Adult supervision during all child-dog interactions ensures safety and fosters positive relationships that last.

The average lifespan of the Deerhound is around 8 to 9 years, shorter than many other breeds, primarily due to its giant size and specific health predispositions. With diligent care and screening, they remain relatively healthy but vigilance is essential for breed-specific concerns.

Breed-Specific Health Conditions

Key health issues include a high risk of osteosarcoma (bone cancer), which is significantly more prevalent in Deerhounds compared to general dog populations, accompanied by congenital conditions such as portosystemic shunt and Factor VII deficiency. Other concerns are Von Willebrand’s Disease type 1, craniomandibular osteopathy, heart issues, bloat (gastric torsion), and urolithiasis.

Genetic Testing Requirements

Breeders must screen puppies for portosystemic shunt and perform DNA tests on parent dogs to detect Factor VII deficiency, Von Willebrand’s Disease, and craniomandibular osteopathy. These tests are vital in preventing hereditary conditions and preserving the breed’s genetic health.

Preventive Healthcare Schedule

Puppies receive initial vaccinations by breeders, with owners responsible for booster shots at around 10-12 weeks and following schedules advised by vets. Spaying and neutering is typically recommended between 6 to 12 months depending on veterinary advice for optimal growth and health outcomes.

Insurance Considerations

Due to the breed’s size and associated health risks, insurance premiums tend to be higher. Coverage should consider potential bone cancer treatment and the risk of bloat, with policies tailored to include lifetime health cover where possible to manage ongoing veterinary costs.

Caring for a Deerhound involves a balanced daily routine combining diet, grooming, exercise, and health monitoring to support their wellbeing throughout life stages. Their large size and sighthound nature require a commitment to adequate space and specialised care.

Daily Care Routine

A typical day should start with a gentle morning walk, followed by feeding and rest. Afternoons should include more extended or stimulating exercise sessions, ideally in a secure garden or off-lead in safe areas, with time for social interaction and play. Evenings are best suited for calm companionship and grooming.

Living Environment Needs

Deerhounds thrive in homes with large, secure gardens or rural properties. Their hunting background and prey drive necessitate fenced outdoor areas to prevent escapes. They are less suited to urban apartments or homes without outdoor access.

Seasonal Care Adjustments

In summer, water availability and shade are crucial to prevent overheating during exercise, while winter care involves protecting older dogs from cold with appropriate bedding and possibly coat covers. Coat maintenance needs adjust with seasonal shedding and grooming frequency.

Senior Care Adaptations

Older Deerhounds require tailored diets lower in fat and rich in easily digestible proteins. Gentle, shorter exercise routines help maintain mobility without overexertion, while joint supplements and comfortable bedding support ageing joints and prevent arthritis. Regular health checks become increasingly important.

The Deerhound's rough, wiry coat demands consistent grooming to maintain its texture and health. Regular brushing, ideally several times a week, prevents mats and tangles, especially around the legs and under the collar where saliva and dirt accumulate.

Coat Maintenance Schedule

Daily brushing is beneficial but at minimum, a thorough weekly session is required. Hand-stripping of dead hair is recommended twice yearly to sustain the coat's characteristic harshness and prevent woolliness, a fault in the breed standard.

Professional Grooming Requirements

Scheduling professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks for hand stripping and trimming helps maintain coat quality and manage seasonal shedding.

Home Grooming Techniques

Owners should use slicker brushes and grooming gloves for comfort and efficiency, ensuring nails are trimmed, ears checked and cleaned regularly to prevent infections. Bathing should be occasional, using dog-specific shampoos that preserve skin oils.

Common Grooming Challenges

Mat formation behind ears and on legs, seasonal shedding variations, and sensitivity to cleaning products can pose challenges. Regular inspection and gentle handling during grooming help minimise stress and maintain good skin condition.

Deerhounds require substantial daily exercise to sustain their health and mental happiness. Ideally, they benefit from a minimum of 2 hours of activity daily, split between a shorter morning walk and a longer, more engaging afternoon session.

Daily Exercise Requirements

Activities should include long, brisk walks, running in safely enclosed gardens, and opportunities for natural coursing instincts to be expressed under close supervision. Consistent exercise prevents obesity and promotes longevity.

Suitable Activities

Lure coursing is especially compatible with Deerhounds, harnessing their hunting heritage. Agility and obedience training also provide valuable mental stimulation and physical challenge.

Exercise Restrictions

Puppies and young Deerhounds must avoid excessive high-impact exercise to protect growing joints; jumping, stair climbing, and prolonged running should be limited. Exercise should avoid immediately before or after meals to reduce risk of bloat, a health concern associated with the breed.

Mental Stimulation Ideas

Puzzle toys, scent work, and training games are excellent options to engage the intelligent Deerhound’s mind. Structured play combined with socialisation and obedience training fosters a balanced and contented canine.

Proper nutrition is vital to maintain a Deerhound's health, supporting their growth, metabolism, and energy requirements from puppyhood through to adulthood and senior years.

Nutritional Requirements

Young Deerhound puppies require a diet rich in high-quality protein and balanced fats, with digestible ingredients suitable for large breeds. Adult Deerhounds benefit from diets containing protein levels around 18-22% and fat around 12-15%, supporting upkeep of muscle bulk and coat condition.

Feeding Schedule Guidelines

Puppies should be fed 3-4 times daily in measured portions based on growth and weight, gradually transitioning to 2 meals per day upon maturity at around 24 months. Adults thrive on twice-daily feeding to minimise bloat risks.

Special Dietary Considerations

Due to bloat susceptibility, feeding should be slow and calm, with elevated feeding stations to reduce neck strain. Avoid exercise immediately before and after meals. Some Deerhounds may have food sensitivities requiring grain-free or limited ingredient diets.

Weight Management

Maintain an ideal body condition with regular weight monitoring and adjusting food intake accordingly to prevent obesity, which can exacerbate joint and heart conditions prevalent in the breed.

Finding a Scottish Deerhound for sale on Pets4Homes often involves joining a waiting list due to the breed's rarity and vulnerable status in the UK. Pedigree puppies typically command prices ranging from approximately £1,000 to £2,000 depending on breeder reputation and lineage quality.

Initial setup costs for a Deerhound are considerable, given the need for large-scale feeding equipment, robust bedding, quality leads and collars, and grooming tools suited to their wiry coat.

Ongoing monthly costs include premium high-protein dog food, regular grooming supplies, and veterinary care including routine vaccinations and preventative treatments. Insurance premiums are notably higher for Deerhounds because of their size, depending on location and dog health.

Over a typical lifespan, prospective owners should budget for routine healthcare costs, periodic specialist treatments (noting the breed’s predisposition to conditions like bloat and osteosarcoma), and potential professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks.

Prospective Deerhound owners should be prepared for a thorough and responsible buying process to ensure the health and welfare of the puppy. You can find Scottish Deerhounds for sale through reputable breeders registered with The Kennel Club and endorsed by The Deerhound Club (UK).

Finding Ethical Breeders

Seek breeders who provide full health screening results, maintain the breed standard coat and characteristics, and avoid overbreeding practices. Visiting the breeder to see puppies interacting with their dam in clean, safe environments is essential.

Health Testing Verification

Ensure puppies come with verified tests for portosystemic shunt, Factor VII deficiency, Von Willebrand’s Disease, and craniomandibular osteopathy, which should be documented and accessible for inspection.

Puppy Selection Process

Evaluate puppy temperament by observing interactions and responses in the litter, selecting balanced and confident individuals suited to your lifestyle. Check physical health, including clear eyes, clean ears, and a proper coat.

Contract and Guarantee Review

Obtain a detailed contract covering health guarantees, microchipping, vaccination history, and return options if the puppy develops health issues. Beware of red flags such as evasive sellers, unusually low prices, or pressure to pay before meeting.

Rescue and Adoption Options

Given the breed’s vulnerable status, consider adopting from specialist rescues or breed-specific rehoming organisations which can be located via The Deerhound Club or The Kennel Club.