Dog Breeds - Scottish Deerhound

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The warmth and affection a dog breed exhibits toward family members or familiar individuals can vary greatly. Some breeds might display a reserved demeanor maintaining a close bond singularly with their owner sparingly demonstrating warmth to others. Conversely, there are breeds that exude sociability, effusively greeting and interacting with anyone they're acquainted with as if they were a long-lost friend.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
A breed's capacity for patience and tolerance with the antics and behaviors of children along with its overarching disposition toward family life can vary. Even within breeds renowned for their affable nature with youngsters individual dogs may react differently. Constant supervision is imperative when dogs interact with young children or any child who may not be familiar with how to engage with dogs. This helps ensure safe and positive experiences for both the dog and the children involved.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The innate sociability of a breed towards fellow canines can differ significantly. While it's essential to oversee interactions and introductions between dogs certain breeds are naturally predisposed to being more amicable and agreeable in the company of other dogs, whether within the home environment or in communal settings. However, individual temperaments and past experiences can also play a crucial role in a dog's friendliness with others of its kind.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur a breed is likely to shed can greatly influence maintenance routines within the home. High-shedding breeds often demand more frequent grooming sessions to manage loose hair, and might heighten the likelihood of allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming needs of a dog breed can vary substantially, affecting how often you'll need to schedule in baths, brushing, trimming and other coat care activities. When considering a breed, it's important to reflect on the amount of time patience and budget you can allocate for such upkeep.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The propensity for drooling varies significantly across different dog breeds. If you prefer a tidy environment or are less enthusiastic about regular clean-up of saliva, opting for a breed known for being less drool-prone might be more suitable for you.
COAT TYPE +
Wiry, Double
COAT LENGTH +
Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
A breed's predisposition toward strangers can range from reserved and cautious to openly welcoming and friendly. Some breeds naturally exercise wariness and may always remain alert and standoffish with unfamiliar people regardless of the setting.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The enthusiasm for play exhibited by a breed can persist beyond their puppy years, influencing their activity levels and interaction styles as they mature. Certain breeds maintain a playful spirit well into adulthood, relishing games like tug-of-war or fetch throughout their lives
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Certain breeds have a strong instinct to alert their owners about the presence of strangers, displaying a heightened vigilance that can result in vocal reactions to anything they perceive as an intrusion be it a routine visit from the mailman or a squirrel dashing across the yard. These breeds, despite their initial caution, often possess the adaptability to accept new individuals once they sense that their family welcomes the stranger into their home.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
A breed's adaptability to change encompasses their ability to adjust to new living situations variations in noise, shifts in weather alterations in daily routines, and other routine fluctuations. Some breeds are highly flexible, taking disruptions and changes in stride without much stress.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The trainability of a dog breed reflects how receptive and willing the breed is to learn new commands and behaviors. Some breeds are highly motivated to please their owners and are known for their ease of training. These dogs often learn new tasks quickly and enjoy the process of training as it involves interaction with their humans and mental stimulation.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The exercise and mental stimulation requirements for a dog breed are critical considerations influencing their overall well-being and fit within a household. High-energy breeds typically demand several hours of physical activity daily along with mental challenges to keep them engaged. These vivacious dogs are often ready for action.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The vocalization habits of dog breeds can range from frequent and loud barking or howling to breeds that are notably quiet. Some breeds have a natural propensity to vocalize as a response to stimuli, such as strangers passing by or wildlife and may use their voice to alert their owners or simply to express themselves. These dogs can be more challenging in environments where noise is an issue, such as apartment complexes or close neighborhoods.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The level of cognitive engagement necessary for a breed's happiness and well-being can vary greatly. Dogs with a history of specialized breeding often need tasks that involve a blend of critical thinking, analytical skills, and focused attention to thrive. If they aren't provided with sufficient mental workouts, they'll invent their own activities to engage their intellect, which might not align with what you'd prefer.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The warmth and affection a dog breed exhibits toward family members or familiar individuals can vary greatly. Some breeds might display a reserved demeanor maintaining a close bond singularly with their owner sparingly demonstrating warmth to others. Conversely, there are breeds that exude sociability, effusively greeting and interacting with anyone they're acquainted with as if they were a long-lost friend.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

A breed's capacity for patience and tolerance with the antics and behaviors of children along with its overarching disposition toward family life can vary. Even within breeds renowned for their affable nature with youngsters individual dogs may react differently. Constant supervision is imperative when dogs interact with young children or any child who may not be familiar with how to engage with dogs. This helps ensure safe and positive experiences for both the dog and the children involved.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The innate sociability of a breed towards fellow canines can differ significantly. While it's essential to oversee interactions and introductions between dogs certain breeds are naturally predisposed to being more amicable and agreeable in the company of other dogs, whether within the home environment or in communal settings. However, individual temperaments and past experiences can also play a crucial role in a dog's friendliness with others of its kind.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur a breed is likely to shed can greatly influence maintenance routines within the home. High-shedding breeds often demand more frequent grooming sessions to manage loose hair, and might heighten the likelihood of allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The grooming needs of a dog breed can vary substantially, affecting how often you'll need to schedule in baths, brushing, trimming and other coat care activities. When considering a breed, it's important to reflect on the amount of time patience and budget you can allocate for such upkeep.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The propensity for drooling varies significantly across different dog breeds. If you prefer a tidy environment or are less enthusiastic about regular clean-up of saliva, opting for a breed known for being less drool-prone might be more suitable for you.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Wiry, Double

COAT SPECTRUM

Medium

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

A breed's predisposition toward strangers can range from reserved and cautious to openly welcoming and friendly. Some breeds naturally exercise wariness and may always remain alert and standoffish with unfamiliar people regardless of the setting.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The enthusiasm for play exhibited by a breed can persist beyond their puppy years, influencing their activity levels and interaction styles as they mature. Certain breeds maintain a playful spirit well into adulthood, relishing games like tug-of-war or fetch throughout their lives

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Certain breeds have a strong instinct to alert their owners about the presence of strangers, displaying a heightened vigilance that can result in vocal reactions to anything they perceive as an intrusion be it a routine visit from the mailman or a squirrel dashing across the yard. These breeds, despite their initial caution, often possess the adaptability to accept new individuals once they sense that their family welcomes the stranger into their home.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

A breed's adaptability to change encompasses their ability to adjust to new living situations variations in noise, shifts in weather alterations in daily routines, and other routine fluctuations. Some breeds are highly flexible, taking disruptions and changes in stride without much stress.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The trainability of a dog breed reflects how receptive and willing the breed is to learn new commands and behaviors. Some breeds are highly motivated to please their owners and are known for their ease of training. These dogs often learn new tasks quickly and enjoy the process of training as it involves interaction with their humans and mental stimulation.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The exercise and mental stimulation requirements for a dog breed are critical considerations influencing their overall well-being and fit within a household. High-energy breeds typically demand several hours of physical activity daily along with mental challenges to keep them engaged. These vivacious dogs are often ready for action.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Infrequent

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The level of cognitive engagement necessary for a breed's happiness and well-being can vary greatly. Dogs with a history of specialized breeding often need tasks that involve a blend of critical thinking, analytical skills, and focused attention to thrive. If they aren't provided with sufficient mental workouts, they'll invent their own activities to engage their intellect, which might not align with what you'd prefer.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Blue Gray	300
Brindle	057
Gray	100
Gray Brindle	107
Black	007
Black Brindle	279
Blue	037

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
White Markings	014

About The Breed

Pause for a moment to soak in the magnificence of the crisply coated Scottish deerhound celebrated as the 'Royal Dog of Scotland' a towering figure of elegance molded on the venerable Greyhound lines. Ranking as one of the mightiest in stature among canines, they were masterfully bred for the daunting task of hunting the great wild red deer. Take a step back to fully revel in the grandness of this venerable breed. Cast in the timeless Greyhound silhouette the Deerhound boasts a more substantial frame. A robust male may stand proud at 32 inches at the shoulder tipping the scales at an impressive 110 pounds. The sharp, distinctive coat presents in a palette of colors, yet the dark blue-gray is held in the highest esteem by connoisseurs. With its tapered head and elongated neck the Deerhound adds a noble grace to its already majestic demeanor.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A SCOTTISH DEERHOUND

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Scottish Deerhound: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Despite their formidable size a substantial number of Scottish Deerhounds enjoy a lengthy lifespan. While it's true that the breed is not without its genetic health challenges, the encouraging aspect is that a great deal of these issues are largely preventable avoidable or manageable with a proactive stance from the owner. Prospective puppy owners are urged to choose their new companion from a reputable breeder who not only conducts the advised health screenings for the breed but also serves as a lifelong support system for the dog. One of the cornerstones of maintaining a Deerhound's health, alongside robust genetic foundations is ensuring their happiness and providing ample daily exercise. It’s crucial that the exercise routine for dogs younger than 18 months is suitable for their age; to navigate this owners ought to seek tailored advice from both the breeder and a trusted veterinarian. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Bile Acid Test Coagulation Factor VII Deficiency - DNA Test Delayed Post-Operative Hemorrhage (DEPOH) - DNA Test Cardiac Exam

Grooming

	The Scottish deerhound boasts a coat that is robust and slightly coarse to the touch but remarkably low-maintenance requiring only a periodic once-over with a brush and comb about every week. Alongside their basic coat care, these majestic dogs may need their nails trimmed every couple of weeks, particularly if they don't naturally wear them down through exercise. The essential tools for grooming include a slicker brush to manage their coarse fur, a fine-toothed metal comb for the finer details and either an electric nail grinder or sturdy dog nail clippers to keep their claws in check. Incorporate a bath into their routine occasionally to keep any natural canine scent at bay. These grooming moments present the perfect opportunity for a head-to-tail examination of the Deerhound allowing you to spot any fresh bumps or issues with the skin, and to ensure that their eyes and ears are without any signs of concern, promoting overall health and wellbeing.

Exercise

	Raising Deerhound puppies to realize their full potential is no small feat it almost necessitates having another playful pup as a companion and access to a spacious securely enclosed area for play. It's crucial to understand that this breed will not flourish to its fullest—both in body and mind—if confined to a crate at home during long workdays. Both young and mature Deerhounds need the freedom to stretch their legs and engage in the activity they were born for—their intrinsic love of running—each and every day. Puppies turning to destructive behavior are often signaling a lack of sufficient physical activity. It's essential to remember that forced exercise like running alongside a bicycle, is not suitable for these young, growing hounds. On the flip side, mature Deerhounds may seem content to lounge on the couch, yet they too must be given regular exercise daily to maintain good health.

Training

	Even the most enchanting Deerhound puppy will only blossom into a magnificent adult with an abundance of tender human interaction ample exercise and the right diet. With their delicate nature, Deerhounds thrive on positive reinforcement training techniques; they do not take well to harsh methods. This breed is unsuited for life in a kennel or being confined to a crate during their owner's work hours. At home, the Scottish deerhound carries himself with a serene and noble demeanor, but he may feel the urge to pursue any small, swiftly moving critter that catches his eye. Consequently, it's important to ensure Deerhounds get their exercise in a safely enclosed area or on a leash to prevent any impulsive chases. While he is a loving member of the family his considerable stature might be a bit overwhelming for little ones.

Nutrition

	The Scottish deerhound will typically thrive on a diet of premium dog food, whether it's a high-grade commercial brand or a home-cooked meal crafted under the guidance and endorsement of your vet. It’s essential to ensure that the dietary regimen aligns with the life stage of your hound, whether puppy active adult or graceful senior. Be vigilant about your Deerhound's intake of food and treats as they can have a tendency toward gaining excess weight. Use treats strategically as rewards during training, being mindful not to overdo it to prevent obesity. It's also wise to educate yourself about which human foods can be safely enjoyed by your canine friend and those that could be harmful. If you're ever uncertain about your dog's dietary needs or notice any changes in their weight, don't hesitate to consult your veterinarian for advice. Constant access to clean fresh water is a must for your Deerhound’s health. Due to their predisposition to bloat, it's a good practice to split their daily food intake into multiple small meals rather than one large serving, and to avoid rigorous exercise immediately before or after eating to minimize the risks associated with this condition.

Historiography

The origins of the breed are so ancient that the true genesis of the Scottish deerhound is entwined with lore and legend, eluding precise historical documentation. Indications hint that these grand deer-chasing hounds graced Scottish territories even before the arrival of the Scots in the ninth century. Stretching as far back into history as tales can take us the clan leaders are known to have employed packs of these formidable shaggy beasts to hunt and apprehend the elusive red deer, notably swift creatures weighing up to 400 pounds and armed with daunting antlers.

These hounds roamed the rugged, misty Highlands, a land as stark and beautiful as the dogs themselves. Although their primary domain remained isolated the tales of the Deerhound's bravery and prowess echoed throughout all of Britain, cementing their reputation as canines of remarkable courage.