Deerhound

The Scottish Deerhound, also known as Deerhound, is a large-sized breed of dog originating from Scotland. It is known for its elegance and its ability to hunt deer.

General details

They have an average weight of around 36 to 45 kilograms for males and 30 to 40 kilograms for females. In terms of height, males measure between 76 and 81 centimeters at the withers, while females measure between 71 and 76 centimeters. It is a breed of dog belonging to Group 10 of the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale), which groups sighthounds. The average life expectancy of this breed is around 8 to 10 years.

Breed history in brief

Native to the Scottish Highlands, these dogs have been bred for centuries for their ability to hunt large prey such as deer. Their lineage can be traced back to the ancient hunting dogs used by the Celts. Over the years, the Scottish Sighthound has been prized for its speed, endurance and nobility. For centuries, they were bred by Scottish nobility. Although no longer used primarily for hunting, their elegant appearance and gentle character have made them very popular companion dogs.

Breed characteristics

The Scottish Greyhound is a dog of large size and elegant appearance. They have a slender and muscular body, with long limbs and a strong bone structure. Their neck is long and arched, and their tail is long and slender. The ears can be carried semi-erect when the dog is attentive, while at rest, they fold back. Its coat is rough and can have different shades of gray, from dark gray to light gray. Some specimens may also have white patches on the chest and limbs. Their coat is dense and clings to the body, providing protection against cold weather. The Scottish Greyhound is a noble, friendly and easy to train dog. It is obedient and has a good and calm character. In addition, it is noted for its speed, strength and endurance, essential characteristics for hunting and bringing down prey such as deer.

Common health problems

Some of the most common diseases that can affect this breed include volvulo-gastric dilatation, hip dysplasia, dilated cardiomyopathy, hypothyroidism and osteosarcoma.