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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Moderate shedding. Coat upkeep is easy-care — a quick brush now and then is usually enough.

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.

Very quiet. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.

Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.

Needs plenty of space. A Scottish Deerhound really needs plenty of space and a lot of daily activity — not ideal for a small flat.