Dog Breeds >Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound
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Fascinating Facts
The Scottish deerhound was bred in Scotland for the purpose of hunting and chasing deer. Also known as the Scotch Greyhound, Rough Greyhound and Highland Greyhound, this large sight hound became the royal pet of the noble families. No one was allowed to have a Scottish deerhound other than those who have the rank of earl or higher. The strict rules of the nobility made it almost impossible for the common people to breed the Scottish deerhound.
When man invented the gun, the number of game available decreased as well as the hounds used for hunting. The Second World War has made a great impact on the population of the Scottish deerhound because aside from the difficulty of feeding it, the people have consumed their meat for food as well. Fortunately after the Second World War, people have started preserving and reviving the breed by carefully mixing Irish wolfhound to the breed.
Physical Appearance
The Scottish deerhound measures 28 – 32 inches and weighs 75 – 110 pounds. They seem to be taller and slimmer than the Greyhound but only the Scottish deerhound’s bone structure is larger. They also possess rougher coat than the Greyhound. Their head is broad and flat between the ears. Their nose is black with medium-sized nostrils. The eyes are either black or brown that is set on black eye rims. Their tail is long that almost touches the ground.
They have a harsh and wiry coat that grows up to 3 – 4 inches. The hairs are softer on the head, chest and belly but it is harsh on the mane, mustache and beard especially on the body.
Grooming
The Scottish deerhound’s tough and wiry coat needs regular brushing and removal of dead hair. Sometimes, trimming would help you manage its long and wiry hair to prevent it from tangling.
Mood
The Scottish deerhound is very active and lovable pet. They are loyal and funny and they make poor guard and watch dogs. They are energetic and wild while they are young and tend to slow down a little bit as they grow old. The Scottish deerhound is also calm and sweet natured but they are also stubborn when asked to perform a routine.
They are also friendly with other dogs but it should not be trusted with non-canine pets such as birds, rats, cats and rabbits. Their hunting instincts cannot be completely suppressed by it can be properly regulated through early socialization.
With Children
The Scottish deerhound is friendly with everyone especially the children. Their alertness, gentleness and vigor are the traits perfect for those children who are looking for active playmates. The Scottish deerhound is best when the activity involves running.
Training & Exercise
This breed needs daily exercise in order to keep it from getting bored. Brisk and fast running or walking is the best exercise for this breed. From time to time, allow them to run off leash in a secured area so that it could really enjoy running.
When training a Scottish deerhound, the owner/trainer/handler should bear in mind that that they need firm and assertive leader. Rough and harsh methods of training would not bring out the best of them. Food-reward training is also suggested in order to motivate it more especially during the times that it feels bored.
Health & Life Expectancy
The Scottish deerhound normally lives a life of 9 – 11 years. They are prone to bloat that’s why you should not overfeed this breed. 2 – 3 light meals per day is the recommended serving of food in order to prevent bloat. One should also watch out for heart problems and bone cancer. This breed may be also sensitive to certain chemicals and drugs.
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