Scottish Deerhound
A tall, rough-coated Scottish sighthound bred to course red deer. Gentle, dignified and devoted, calm and quiet indoors, but it needs space, secure exercise and has a strong chase instinct outdoors.
Scottish Deerhound scorecard
Overview
The Scottish Deerhound is a tall, dignified sighthound bred to course red deer across the Highlands of Scotland. One of the giant breeds, it stands around 71–81 cm at the shoulder and weighs roughly 34–50 kg, with a rough, wiry coat usually in shades of grey, brindle or fawn. Despite its imposing size and athletic build, it is famous for a gentle, calm and devoted nature, quiet and undemanding in the home. It is recognised by the UK Kennel Club within the Hound Group.
The Deerhound is a true native British breed with a long and romantic history, often celebrated in Scottish art and literature. For all its racing speed and powerful chase instinct outdoors, indoors it is one of the most placid and affectionate of the large breeds. Prospective owners should be prepared for its sheer size, its need for space and secure exercise, and the comparatively short lifespan that, sadly, accompanies many giant breeds.
Good to know — a Scottish Deerhound needs plenty of space and manageable for committed beginners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
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History & origins
The Scottish Deerhound is an ancient type, with large rough-coated coursing hounds associated with the hunting of deer in Scotland for many centuries. It became closely linked with the Highland clans and the aristocracy, valued for its ability to pursue and pull down red deer over rough, open country. At times its ownership was restricted to the nobility, and the breed's fortunes rose and fell with the fashions and politics of deer hunting.
The breed came close to disappearing on more than one occasion, but was revived by dedicated breeders in the nineteenth century, with figures such as Archibald and Duncan McNeill credited in its restoration. It was celebrated by the writer Sir Walter Scott, who famously kept a Deerhound called Maida. Today it is recognised by the Kennel Club in the UK and by the FCI, and is kept chiefly as a companion and show dog, as well as for lure coursing where permitted.
Temperament & family fit
Indoors the Scottish Deerhound is gentle, calm and remarkably quiet, rarely given to barking and content to lounge for much of the day. It is deeply affectionate and devoted to its family, often described as dignified and good-natured, and it generally gets along well with children and other dogs when properly socialised. This easy, peaceable temperament in the home is one of the breed's greatest charms.
Outdoors, however, the Deerhound is transformed by its sighthound heritage: it has a powerful instinct to chase moving objects, and once in pursuit it can reach considerable speed and become single-minded. This strong prey drive means recall around running animals can be unreliable, and free running needs to be in safe, enclosed spaces. The breed is too gentle and friendly to make a guard dog, but its size alone can be a deterrent.
- Families with children of all ages
- Owners ready for consistent training
- Active homes with plenty of space
Training & intelligence
Deerhounds are intelligent and sensitive dogs that respond best to gentle, reward-based training and a calm, patient approach; they do not take well to harsh handling. While generally biddable and eager to please their owners, they retain a degree of sighthound independence and can be slow to mature, so consistency and a sense of humour help during the long puppyhood of such a large dog.
Key priorities are careful management of the powerful chase instinct, since recall may never be fully reliable around fast-moving animals, and sensible early handling given the breed's eventual size and strength. Lead manners and basic obedience are far easier to instil while the dog is young and small. Gentle, thorough socialisation produces the confident, well-mannered adult that makes the Deerhound such a pleasant companion.
- Start socialisation & handling early
- Reward-based methods only — no harsh corrections
- Keep sessions short, calm and consistent
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Scottish Deerhound typically needs around an hour a day (roughly 60–80 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. A good sniffy walk, some play and a little training usually keeps them content. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
The Deerhound's harsh, wiry coat is relatively easy to look after, needing a brush once or twice a week to remove loose hair and prevent matting, particularly around the beard and furnishings; it sheds moderately. Occasional hand-stripping or tidying helps keep the coat in good condition, though it is far less demanding than many wire coats. Routine care of the ears, nails and teeth should be maintained, and the long legs and feet checked after exercise over rough ground.
- Brush occasionally to remove loose hair
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding a Scottish Deerhound
Feed a complete, good-quality diet formulated for large or giant breeds, paying particular attention to controlled, steady growth in puppies to protect developing joints. Adult Deerhounds, despite their size, are not enormous eaters relative to their frame, but rations should be matched to age, condition and activity. As a deep-chested giant breed, the Deerhound is at risk of bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), so feeding two or more smaller meals a day and avoiding vigorous exercise close to mealtimes is strongly advised. Fresh water should always be available.
A giant breed
An adult Scottish Deerhound typically weighs 34–50 kg, so a healthy Scottish Deerhound eats a lot, and the sack size matters as much as the recipe compared with other breeds. Every feeding guide on a bag is written per kilo of body weight, not per breed — start there, then adjust to the dog in front of you.
Life stage
A giant breed is usually done growing at 18–24 months, which is roughly when a puppy food has finished its job. With a typical lifespan of 8–11 years, there is a long adult stretch in the middle; switch to a senior food when your vet thinks it is worth it rather than on a birthday.
Joint support is worth looking for
Their size and frame put more load through the joints than a smaller dog carries, so a food with joint support on the label is worth reading for — and keeping them lean does more for their joints than any supplement.
Weight matters more than usual here
A long back or a heavy frame makes every extra kilo count twice. Weigh portions rather than eyeballing a scoop, and reduce the food rather than the walks if the waist starts to disappear.
How much should a Scottish Deerhound weigh?
Adult 34–50 kgfully grown at 18–24 months
| Age | Stage | Typical weight | Of adult size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 weeks | Just home | 3–4.4 kg | 9% |
| 3 months | Young puppy | 4.9–7.1 kg | 14% |
| 6 months | Growing fast | 9.7–14.3 kg | 29% |
| 12 months | Adolescent | 19.4–28.6 kg | 57% |
| 18–24 months | Fully grown | 34–50 kg | 100% |
A guide, from the same rule of thumb our puppy growth predictor uses — each age is that share of the way to maturity for a giant breed. Puppies grow fastest early, so a real puppy usually sits a little above the middle rows. Weigh yours and ask your vet if the number worries you.
Complete dog foods that suit a Scottish Deerhound
Complete foods from our range, matched to a Scottish Deerhound's size band and what the breed typically needs. Stock levels and delivery dates are live on each product.
Field & Trial Skinner S Field Trial Light Senior
A lower-fat dry food for older, overweight or less active dogs, including working breeds
From£9.85
Autarky Complete Grain Free Adult Turkey
Grain-free complete dry food for adult dogs, with turkey and a marine-algae joint care package
£12.79
Autarky Grain Free Tasty White Fish & Potato Complete
Grain-free dry dog food built around white fish meal rather than poultry
£12.99
Lily's Kitchen Lily S Kitchen Dog Lovely Lamb
Complete lamb-led dry dog food offered in two practical bag sizes
From£25.15
Burns Adult Large/Giant Breed Chicken and Brown Rice
Complete large-breed dry dog food with 23% chicken and brown rice
£59.99
Burgess Greyhound and Lurcher Chicken
Complete adult dry food formulated for the specific build of greyhounds and lurchers
£35.35
Naturo Senior Rice Poultry Variety 6pk
Six 400g trays across three recipes for senior dogs, with glucosamine and chondroitin
£10.29
Naturo Senior Dog Turkey with Rice and Vegetables 7pk
Turkey at 65% in a senior wet tray, with brown rice, vegetables and added joint support
£11.99
Vitalin Adult Dog Pork with Apple
Complete dry food for adult dogs of any age, led by pork, with citrus extract for dental support
From£11.99
Scottish Deerhound health & costs
Before bringing a Scottish Deerhound home it pays to budget for the whole picture — food, insurance, grooming and routine vet care all add up. The figures below are typical UK estimates for a healthy adult; your real costs vary with where you live, your dog's health and the cover you choose.
Food
£850–1,200 / year
Complete food sized to weight & life stage
Insurance
£45–85 / month
Lifetime cover — varies by age, breed & area
Grooming
£0–60 / year
Mostly DIY at home
Routine vet care
£200–450 / year
Vaccines, flea/worm, annual check
The Scottish Deerhound is, like many giant breeds, comparatively short-lived, with a typical lifespan often around 8–11 years. The most significant health concern in the breed is heart disease, particularly dilated cardiomyopathy, and a number of Deerhounds are affected by cardiac problems; responsible breeders pay close attention to heart health in their lines. Owners should be aware of the signs of heart disease and arrange regular veterinary checks.
As a deep-chested giant, the breed is also at risk of bloat, a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention, and owners should learn to recognise its signs. Bone and joint conditions, including a predisposition to certain cancers such as bone cancer, are also seen in the breed, as in several giant sighthounds. Buying from a responsible breeder who screens for heart and other concerns, and providing attentive care, give the best chance of a healthy life.
Common health conditions to be aware of
- Dilated cardiomyopathy and heart disease — a significant concern in the breed; responsible breeders monitor heart health and affected dogs may need lifelong veterinary management.
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat) — a life-threatening emergency in deep-chested giant breeds requiring immediate veterinary treatment; feed smaller meals and avoid exercise around feeding.
- Osteosarcoma (bone cancer) — large and giant sighthounds carry an increased risk of bone cancer compared with smaller breeds.
- Hypothyroidism — an underactive thyroid can occur and is manageable with veterinary treatment once diagnosed.
- Joint and developmental conditions — careful, controlled exercise during the long growth period helps protect the developing bones and joints.
- Anaesthetic sensitivity — like many sighthounds, Deerhounds can be sensitive to certain anaesthetics, so always use a vet familiar with the breed type.
These reflect typical, size- and coat-related risks for dogs like the Scottish Deerhound; individual breeds carry their own predispositions. Always buy from health-tested parents and speak to your vet — this isn't a diagnosis.
Protect against surprise bills
A single emergency can run into thousands. Lifetime insurance spreads the risk.
Estimate insurance →How pet insurance works →Puppy & senior care
Bringing home a Scottish Deerhound puppy
Puppies need controlled exercise (a rough guide is five minutes per month of age, twice a day) to protect growing joints, little-and-often meals of a complete puppy food, early socialisation, and a calm routine for toilet training and sleep. Book first vaccinations, microchipping and a vet check early.
New puppy checklist →Caring for a senior Scottish Deerhound
As they age, watch weight, joints and teeth, switch to a senior diet if your vet advises, keep exercise gentle but regular, and consider orthopaedic bedding and ramps. Twice-yearly vet checks help catch issues early — larger breeds age sooner, so start senior care from around 6–7 years.
Orthopaedic beds & mobility →Pros & cons
The good bits
- Gentle, calm and quiet companion
- Affectionate and good with families
Things to consider
- Giant size with a strong chase instinct
- Shorter lifespan and needs room to gallop
Compare the Scottish Deerhound
See how the Scottish Deerhound measures up against similar breeds before you decide:
More breeds like the Scottish Deerhound
Same breed group
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Dachshund
A bold, characterful "sausage dog" that suits smaller homes but needs careful handling of its long back.
Whippet
A gentle, quiet "sofa sprinter" — happy to lounge at home between short bursts of explosive running.
Greyhound
The ultimate couch potato — despite their racing reputation, retired greyhounds need surprisingly little exercise.
Similar temperament
Irish Wolfhound
The tallest of all breeds — a gentle, calm and good-natured sighthound that is, sadly, one of the shortest-lived.
Galgo Español
The Spanish greyhound, an ancient sighthound built for the open plains. Calm, gentle and quiet indoors, but with a strong chase instinct and a sensitive nature.
Whippet
A gentle, quiet "sofa sprinter" — happy to lounge at home between short bursts of explosive running.
Bulldog
A placid, affectionate companion that’s happy with gentle walks — but burdened by serious health issues.
Similar size, different type
Bernese Mountain Dog
A gentle giant — calm, affectionate and wonderful with families, if you have the space and a big heart.
Great Dane
A truly enormous yet gentle and affectionate "gentle giant" — surprisingly calm for its size.
Saint Bernard
The classic gentle giant — calm, patient and wonderful with children, though it drools, sheds and lives a shorter giant-breed life.
Tibetan Mastiff
An ancient, independent guardian breed — watchful and devoted to its family, but powerful, aloof and territorial.
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Frequently asked questions
How big is a Scottish Deerhound?
The Scottish Deerhound is one of the giant breeds, standing around 71–81 cm at the shoulder and weighing roughly 34–50 kg. Bred to course red deer across the Scottish Highlands, it has a tall, dignified, athletic build with a rough, wiry coat usually in shades of grey, brindle or fawn. Prospective owners must be prepared for its sheer size and need for space.
Are Scottish Deerhounds calm indoors?
Yes, remarkably so. Indoors the Deerhound is gentle, calm and quiet, rarely given to barking and content to lounge for much of the day. It is deeply affectionate and devoted to its family, often described as dignified and good-natured, and generally gets on well with children and other dogs when properly socialised. This easy, peaceable home temperament is one of the breed's greatest charms.
Can a Scottish Deerhound be let off the lead safely?
Only in safe, enclosed spaces. As a sighthound, the Deerhound has a powerful instinct to chase moving objects and can reach considerable speed once in pursuit, becoming single-minded. This strong prey drive means recall around running animals can be unreliable. Free running should be in secure areas, and although it is too gentle to be a guard dog, its size alone can deter.
How much exercise does a Scottish Deerhound need?
Despite being calm in the house, the Deerhound is an athlete that needs the chance to gallop, ideally in large, secure areas. Daily walks plus regular free running keep it fit and content. Care must be taken with growing puppies, however: as a giant breed, excessive or high-impact exercise while bones and joints are still developing should be avoided to protect long-term soundness.
Is a Scottish Deerhound easy to groom?
Relatively, yes. The harsh, wiry coat needs brushing once or twice a week to remove loose hair and prevent matting, particularly around the beard and furnishings, and it sheds moderately. Occasional hand-stripping or tidying helps, though it is far less demanding than many wire coats. Maintain routine ear, nail and dental care, and check the legs and feet after exercise over rough ground.
What is the lifespan of a Scottish Deerhound?
Like many giant breeds, the Deerhound is comparatively short-lived, with a typical lifespan often around 8–11 years. The most significant health concern is heart disease, particularly dilated cardiomyopathy, so responsible breeders pay close attention to heart health. The breed is also prone to bloat and certain cancers such as bone cancer. Buying from a breeder who screens for these gives the best chance of a healthy life.
Why is bloat a concern for Scottish Deerhounds?
As a deep-chested giant breed, the Deerhound is at risk of bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary attention. Owners should learn to recognise its signs. Feeding two or more smaller meals a day, and avoiding vigorous exercise close to mealtimes, is strongly advised, with fresh water always available. Prompt veterinary care is essential if bloat is ever suspected.
Are Scottish Deerhounds good with children?
Good with children. As a general guide, Scottish Deerhounds tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Scottish Deerhound need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Scottish Deerhound needs around an hour of exercise a day (60–80 minutes), split across walks plus play. A good sniffy walk plus some play and training usually keeps them happy. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do Scottish Deerhounds shed a lot?
Moderate shedding. Coat upkeep is easy-care — a quick brush now and then is usually enough.
Are Scottish Deerhounds easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Manageable for committed beginners. Scottish Deerhounds are best for owners ready to commit to consistent training and plenty of activity. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Scottish Deerhounds bark a lot?
Very quiet. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.
Are Scottish Deerhounds good with other dogs?
Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Scottish Deerhounds suit flats or smaller homes?
Needs plenty of space. A Scottish Deerhound really needs plenty of space and a lot of daily activity — not ideal for a small flat.
Sources
- The Kennel Club (UK) — Deerhound breed information: https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/breed-standards/hound/deerhound/
- Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) — Deerhound breed standard: https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/DEERHOUND-164.html
- PDSA — dog care and health advice: https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice
- Blue Cross — dog breed and care guidance: https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog
Recommended for your Scottish Deerhound
Matched to a Scottish Deerhound's size and their typical need for no-pull walking kit, a cosy bed, joint & mobility support.
Reflective Two-Tone Dog Harness and Lead Set
A bright two-tone step-in dog harness with a matching lead. Adjustable straps and quick-release buckles give a snug fit, while reflective trim keeps your dog visible on darker walks.
£7.99
L-Shaped Bolster Sofa Dog Bed
A supportive L-shaped sofa bed with a raised bolster back and side for your dog to rest their head. The thick padded base cushions joints, and the soft rose-velvet cover is removable and washable for easy care.
From£44.99
Plush Bee Cat Harness and Lead Set
A soft plush cat harness with a 3D bee charm and a matching lead, adjustable at neck and chest, made for kittens, cats and very small dogs on gentle outings.
£7.99
Corduroy Dog Harness with Bow
A soft corduroy step-in dog harness with breathable mesh lining and gold-tone alloy buckles. The adjustable fit and pretty bow detail make walks comfortable and stylish for small and medium dogs.
From£7.99
Orthopaedic Memory Foam Dog Sofa Bed
An orthopaedic memory-foam dog bed with supportive bolster sides for head and neck resting. The egg-crate foam core cushions joints and distributes weight, ideal for older or larger dogs needing extra support.
From£39.99
Bugalugs Hemp Oil for Dogs & Cats – 50ml
A natural, UK-made hemp seed oil supplement rich in Omega-3, -6, and -9 to support calmness, joint mobility, and a healthy, glossy coat.
£13.99
Suggestions based on breed traits — always check sizing and suitability for your individual dog.
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Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.