Scottish Deerhound
Quick Summary
Noble sighthounds best suited for spacious homes with active owners. Their gentle nature and athletic abilities make them unique companions, requiring dedicated exercise and space.
Contents
Weight Range
75-110 lbs
♂ Male: 85-110 lbs
♀ Female: 75-95 lbs
Height Range
71-81 inches
♂ Male: 30-32"
♀ Female: 30-32"
Life Expectancy
8-11 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #32
Above Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Hound Group
Originally bred for During medieval times in the Scottish Highlands, these noble hounds served as royal hunting companions, pursuing red deer across rugged terrain
Popularity
#158
Less common breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 30"-32" |
| Female Height | 30"-32" |
| Male Weight | 85-110 lbs |
| Female Weight | 75-95 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $2,000-3,000 for a puppy. Monthly expenses average $150-200 for food and basic care. Regular vet check-ups and potential health issues can add significant healthcare costs throughout their life.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Scottish Deerhounds combine dignity with gentleness, showing remarkable patience and calm indoors despite their athletic nature. They're typically reserved with strangers but devoted to family, displaying low aggression and good social manners.
Social Needs
These hounds bond deeply with their families and get along well with other dogs. They can tolerate moderate alone time but prefer company. Daily interaction and gentle leadership are essential for their well-being.
Breed Overview
Majestic and noble, Scottish Deerhounds possess a commanding presence with their tall, lean build and rough coat. Standing up to 32 inches at the shoulder, these graceful giants combine strength with elegance. Their dignified bearing reflects their aristocratic heritage, while their gentle eyes and soft expression reveal their characteristically kind nature.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Gentle and dignified temperament
- ✓ Low barking tendency
- ✓ Good with other dogs
- ✓ Minimal grooming needs
Cons
- ✗ Requires large living space
- ✗ High exercise needs
- ✗ Short lifespan
- ✗ Strong prey drive
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Gentle, Dignified, Polite |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Independent |
| Grooming Needs | Occasional Bath/Brush |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Scottish Deerhounds require 60-90 minutes of daily exercise, including long walks and opportunities to run in secured areas. Their exercise should include moderate-intensity activities with periods of sprinting, reflecting their coursing heritage.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Scottish Deerhounds require 3-4 cups of high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals. Their diet should be rich in protein and appropriate for large, active breeds, with careful portion control to prevent bloat.
Feed 3-4 cups of premium large-breed dog food daily, split into two meals. Consider supplements for joint health. Monitor weight carefully and avoid exercise around mealtimes to prevent bloat. Fresh water should always be available.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
These large sighthounds need substantial indoor space and access to a securely fenced yard. They thrive in rural or suburban settings with room to stretch their legs safely.
A large home with at least a half-acre of securely fenced yard is ideal. Scottish Deerhounds need space to stretch out indoors and room to run safely outdoors. They're not suited for apartment living.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Highland nobles in medieval Scotland developed these majestic hounds to hunt red deer by sight and speed. Their prowess in pursuing game across rough terrain made them highly valued among Scottish chieftains and earned them the title 'Royal Dog of Scotland.'
Historical Purpose
During medieval times in the Scottish Highlands, these noble hounds served as royal hunting companions, pursuing red deer across rugged terrain. Their exceptional speed and size made them ideal for this purpose.
Fun Fact
Scottish Deerhounds can reach speeds of up to 30 mph and were once so prized that no one below an earl's rank could own one.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Secure fencing is essential due to prey drive. Regular exercise is crucial but should be moderate in puppies to protect growing joints. Health monitoring is important.