Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Scottish Deerhound
Breed Compatibility
75% Compatible
Energy Level
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Scottish Deerhound: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Agreeable0.6
Scottish Deerhound: Independent0.4
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Scottish Deerhound: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Scottish Deerhound3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog3/5
Scottish Deerhound5/5
Good with Strangers
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Scottish Deerhound3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Bloat: Serious digestive emergency
Eye Problems: Various hereditary issues
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Splenic Torsion: Emergency condition
Scottish Deerhound
Cardiomyopathy: Heart muscle disease
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Osteosarcoma: Bone cancer risk
Liver shunt: Blood flow issue
Eye problems: Vision concerns
Pros & Cons Comparison
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Pros
Loyal and devoted to family
Excellent watchdog capabilities
Good with children
Strong and athletic
Low grooming needs
Cons
Heavy shedding seasonally
Not apartment-friendly
Can be stubborn
Expensive to feed
Short lifespan
Scottish Deerhound
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
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their massive size, these gentle giants were known as 'poor man's horse' in Swiss farming communities.
Scottish Deerhound 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.
Heritage & Purpose
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Origin:
Swiss farmers utilized these dogs in the Alps during the 1800s for drafting, herding, and guarding livestock. Their strength and versatility made them invaluable working companions.
Scottish Deerhound
Origin:
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.
Special Considerations
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Needs early socialization and training. Regular exercise essential. Watch for signs of bloat and joint issues. Climate sensitivity in hot weather requires monitoring.
Scottish Deerhound
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.