The Deerhound Community

The Scottish Deerhound is one of the most ancient and historically significant dog breeds associated with the British Isles, a large sighthound developed in the Scottish Highlands over many centuries for the specific purpose of coursing red deer across open moorland terrain. Closely related to the Irish Wolfhound and sharing deep ancestry with the sighthound group that spread across Europe from ancient origins in the Middle East, the Deerhound was for centuries the exclusive companion of Scottish nobility - no one below the rank of Earl was permitted to own one, and the breed's association with Highland clan culture made it a symbol of status and heritage. Registered by the Kennel Club in the Hound Group, it is a rare and magnificent breed with a devoted but relatively small following. The Deerhound is one of the tallest dog breeds. Adult males typically stand 76 centimetres or more at the shoulder and weigh 40 to 50 kilograms, with a build that is lean, muscular and built for sustained speed over rough terrain. The coat is rough, harsh and shaggy in blue-grey, brindle, yellow, red or fawn shades - a coat that provides weather protection in Scottish conditions while adding to the breed's distinctively rugged, ancient appearance. The character is one of the Deerhound's most extraordinary qualities. Despite the size and ancient hunting purpose, the Deerhound is among the gentlest large breeds in existence. It is soft-natured, calm, affectionate and devoted to its family in a quiet, undemonstrative way that suits owners who appreciate dignity over exuberance. It is not a guard dog - its natural response to strangers is curiosity and friendship rather than suspicion. It is not a demanding breed in terms of attention or stimulation requirements. It is, in the truest sense of the term, a gentle giant. Outside, the sighthound nature activates. The Deerhound was bred to pursue and bring down a full-grown red deer at high speed, and the prey drive directed at small and medium-sized running animals is powerful. Recall in open areas around prey animals cannot be relied upon. Secure fencing for any off-lead exercise area is non-negotiable - the breed is athletic and capable of clearing significant obstacles when motivated. The prey drive makes the Deerhound incompatible with cats and small pets in the household without extraordinarily careful management, and many individuals will never be reliably safe with small animals regardless of early socialisation. The Deerhound's cardiac health is the most serious and immediate health concern for the breed. Dilated cardiomyopathy and associated arrhythmias are disproportionately common in Scottish Deerhounds compared to most breeds, and cardiac testing of both parents before breeding is the minimum acceptable health standard. Bloat - gastric dilatation-volvulus - is a potentially fatal emergency condition that is more common in deep-chested large breeds and requires immediate veterinary attention. Lifespan of 8 to 11 years is relatively short and is a characteristic of the giant and near-giant sighthound type that prospective owners must accept. Purchase prices from KC-registered, cardiac-tested breeders range from £1,200 to £2,500. Monthly running costs average £160 to £280, reflecting the significant food, insurance and potential health costs of a large breed. The Scottish Deerhound Club is the primary resource for breed information, responsible breeders, health testing requirements and rescue contact.