Scottish Deerhound

Written by Doris Donnerman (last updated April 3, 2009)

Truly a dog of the nobility, for years possessed by no one of less rank than an earl, the calm demeanor and characteristic faraway expression of the Deerhound seems to recall those olden, golden days. Extremely rugged in appearance, yet remarkably graceful, the dog's stately carriage denotes aristocracy in every line.

Early writings on the breed are somewhat confusing, as the reader is often unable to determine whether the passage refers to the Deerhound or to the Irish Wolfhound. Many names were used to describe the breed, principal of which are Rough Highland Greyhound, Highland Greyhound, Wolfdog and Staghound. The breed is known to have existed in Scotland and elsewhere before A.D. 1526. Both Rough and Smooth Greyhounds are mentioned in early writings."

The Deerhound has always been held in high value. His worth in the chase of the large Scottish deer was long established. In addition he was a splendid guard and companion for the Highland Chieftains, and while he is essentially a hunting dog, he has a well-grounded love of human companionship. At one time he was held in such high esteem that a nobleman condemned to die could buy his freedom with a leash of these hounds. He has fine powers of scent and is a good tracker. In disposition, he is friendly, tractable and easily trained, possessing devotion and loyalty to his master.

The dark blue-grey color is most preferred, with other colors coming in from the darker and lighter greys or brindles. Still the darkest is generally preferred. The coat is usually 3 or 4 inches long with somewhat of a mixture of a silky coat and a woolly coat. In the United States the coat tends to be that of a mixed coat.

The male Scottish Deerhound weighs from 85 to 110 pounds the height of males is thirty to thirty-two inches. The female weighs from 75 to 91 pounds with a height from twenty-eight inches upwards.

Additional information on the Scottish Deerhound can be found at the website for the American Kennel Club.

Author Bio

Doris Donnerman

Doris is a jack of all trades, writing on a variety of topics. Her articles have helped enlighten and entertain thousands over the years. ...

MORE FROM DORIS

Luscious Lemon Bars

Lemon bars are a wonderfully easy, and tasty, desert that can be appropriate for any occasion. Try this recipe next time ...

Discover More

Anti-Aging Skin Care Products

Even though you can't stop aging altogether, you can still get great skin no matter how old or young you are. Learn how ...

Discover More

Dealing with Toilet Bowl Lime Scale

When most people here the term "lime scale" they think of problems in their bathtubs, showers, or maybe on the water ...

Discover More
More Pet Tips

Otterhound

The Otterhound possesses great endurance and superb swimming abilities. His determination and strong nose make him a ...

Discover More

Whippet

Extremely fast, the Whippet is used for coursing rabbits and match racing. He is quiet, dignified and affectionate.

Discover More

Black and Tan Coonhound

Raccoon and possum hunting are the Black and Tan Coonhound's specialty. He is not only hardy and tough, but affectionate, ...

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 2 + 2?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)