Scottish Deerhound Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Scottish Deerhound is a tall, graceful sighthound with a shaggy coat and a gentle expression. It was bred to course red deer in the Scottish Highlands, and it is quiet, polite and affectionate at home.

Origins and appearance

The breed has a long association with Scottish chieftains, and its numbers fell as deer hunting changed, but dedicated breeders preserved it. Deerhounds are tall and lean, with a long head, a deep chest, a harsh, shaggy coat in gray, brindle, yellow or red, and a long tail.

Temperament

They are gentle, polite and dignified. They love family and are good with children and other dogs. They are calm indoors. They are sensitive. Many chase small animals outdoors. They dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need moderate exercise, such as daily walks and occasional safe runs. They need a large, fenced space. Never trust them off-leash near wildlife.

Training

They are intelligent but independent. Use positive methods and early socialization. Teach leash manners before the dog is large. Avoid harsh corrections.

Coat and grooming

The rough coat needs weekly brushing and occasional trimming. See wire coat dog grooming guide. Trim nails, clean ears and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Heart disease, including dilated cardiomyopathy
• Bone cancer. See signs of cancer in dogs
• Cystinuria
• Sensitivity to anesthesia
• Hip problems

Living with a Scottish Deerhound

Deerhounds are gentle giants that need room, a secure garden and a soft place to lie down. They are generally calm and polite indoors but should not be left with small pets. Owners need a vehicle big enough for a very tall dog.

A typical day

A Deerhound might take a long walk through woodland on a lead, a sprint in a fenced field, then spend hours relaxing on a large bed. Many enjoy company but are not clingy.

Puppies and the first year

Deerhound puppies grow rapidly, so feeding for steady rather than fast growth matters. Avoid long runs and stairs and offer gentle, regular exercise. Start calm lead training early because an adult is strong. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Budget for large quantities of food, bedding, tall fencing, a big crate and higher veterinary fees for a giant dog. Ask about heart and bone cancer screening where available. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

The rough coat protects against Scottish weather, but Deerhounds can overheat in heat waves, so offer shade and cool floors. Travel needs planning, since a large dog may need a big car and extra space.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include trusting off-leash recall, ignoring bloat signs, using harsh training and underestimating costs.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about heart tests, DNA tests and lifespans in the lines. Meet the parents.

Lure coursing and sport

Many Deerhounds enjoy lure coursing, a safe way to let them run. Fit and conditioning matter, so build up gradually.

A quiet hound

Deerhounds are typically quiet indoors and need soft beds and moderate exercise. They are sensitive to harsh voices.

Daily care checklist

• A walk plus a chance to run in a secure field.
• A brush through the wiry coat.
• Large, spaced meals.
• A big, padded bed.
• A check of the coat for burrs and ticks.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Scottish Deerhound suits families who want a tall, gentle, quiet companion and accept health costs. It may not suit small homes. For a heavier relative, see the Irish Wolfhound.

A gentler sighthound

Scottish Deerhounds are often described as softer and more polite than some other sighthounds. They tend to be quiet, even-tempered and dignified, and many take correction poorly. If you want to shape manners, use gentle cues, treats and patience, and avoid shouting. Short, positive sessions at home followed by a calm walk build a trusting relationship.

Coat care and weather

The shaggy coat sheds rain well, and most dogs enjoy cool weather. Brush weekly, tidy the beard after meals and check for burrs. In winter or on very wet days, a coat helps older or thin dogs. Because Deerhounds are slender for their height, make sure bedding is thick and comfortable to protect elbows and hips.

The takeaway

Scottish Deerhounds are tall, gentle and graceful, and they need space, secure fencing and gentle training.