Scottish Deerhound
Description
The Scottish Deerhound is a tall, elegant sighthound bred for hunting red deer across rugged Scottish terrain. Its wiry, medium-length coat provides weather resistance and comes in shades like blue, brindle, and gray, often marked with white. This breed carries a noble air, reflecting centuries of association with Scottish aristocracy and literature. Despite their size, Deerhounds move with surprising grace and speed, built for endurance rather than bursts of sprinting. Known for a calm and polite demeanor, Scottish Deerhounds are affectionate with family and gentle with other dogs. They tend to be reserved around strangers but rarely bark unnecessarily. Their quiet nature and dignified presence make them excellent companions for those who appreciate a large dog with a soft temperament and a history steeped in tradition.
Grooming
The Scottish Deerhound’s double wiry coat sheds very little, but dead hair tends to cling to the undercoat. Weekly carding helps remove loose hairs and prevents matting, especially around the legs and chest where the coat is thicker. Use a light slicker brush gently to avoid damaging the wiry texture. Handstripping every 8 to 12 weeks is recommended to maintain the coat’s characteristic roughness and color vibrancy. This process removes dead hairs and keeps the coat healthy without over-softening it. Pay attention to white markings, which can stain easily and may need spot cleaning after walks. Bathing should be occasional, using a mild shampoo to preserve natural oils. Nail trimming and ear checks are essential, as with all large breeds. - Weekly carding to remove dead hair - Gentle slicker brushing - Handstrip every 2–3 months - Spot clean white markings - Regular nail and ear care Pro tip: Handstrip outdoors or in a well-ventilated area to manage loose wiry hairs effectively.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
Scottish Deerhounds require about 80 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to suit their endurance and prevent fatigue. Morning walks can be brisk and focused on leash training or gentle jogging, while evening walks should be longer and more exploratory to satisfy their natural curiosity and scenting instincts. These dogs benefit from a mix of steady pace and relaxed sniffing time. Example routine: - Morning: 30 minutes brisk walk or light jog - Evening: 50 minutes relaxed walk with sniff breaks Keep walks varied to engage their minds and bodies. Deerhounds enjoy open spaces where they can stretch their legs safely but avoid overly rough terrain that might stress their joints.
Boarding
When boarding a Scottish Deerhound, provide a crate at least 48 inches long to accommodate their height and length comfortably. These dogs appreciate a calm environment with predictable routines to reduce stress. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and consistently, allowing the dog to build trust over time. Include two active play sessions daily, such as fetch or gentle running, paired with scent or brain games to keep their minds sharp. Deerhounds enjoy moderate social interaction with other calm dogs but may prefer quiet downtime afterward. Enrichment items like puzzle feeders and scent trails help prevent boredom. Staff should note the breed’s reserved nature around strangers and avoid overwhelming them with sudden noise or activity. A stable, low-key environment supports their well-being during boarding stays.