Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound is the royal dog of Scotland — a giant rough-coated sighthound developed over centuries to course red deer across the Scottish Highlands.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Origin
United Kingdom
Lifespan
8–11 years
Weight
36–50 kg (80–110 lbs)
Height
71–81 cm (28–32 in)
Exercise
30 to 45 min/day
Diet
Omnivore — giant breed active formula; multiple small meals for bloat prevention
Taxonomic Hierarchy
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
The Story
The Scottish Deerhound is the royal dog of Scotland — a giant rough-coated sighthound developed over centuries to course red deer across the Scottish Highlands. Sir Walter Scott called it "the most perfect creature of Heaven." Similar in outline to the Irish Wolfhound but more refined and racier in build, the Deerhound is a breed of profound gentle dignity, great speed, and considerable history.
Also Known As
Quick Facts
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Physical Profile
Source: wikimedia
The Deerhound is a large, rough-coated dog of greyhound type — tall, lean, and built for sustained speed over rough terrain. The coat is harsh and wiry providing protection in the Scottish climate. Colour is predominantly blue-grey. The head is long with a tapering muzzle and small semi-erect ears. The overall impression is one of quiet power and nobility.
Grooming
Moderate
Shedding
Moderate
Brushing
2-3x-Weekly
Bathing
Every-6-8-Weeks
Coat Colors
Recognized By
Source: wikimedia
Temperament & Personality
Deerhounds are among the gentlest of all large breeds — polite, quiet, and composed. They are friendly with everyone but form their deepest bond with their family. Like all sighthounds, their prey drive is high and they should not be trusted off-lead in unsecured areas.
Personality Scores
Adaptability
2/5Attention Need
2/5Friendliness
4/5Playfulness
3/5Protectiveness
1/5Living Profile
Ideal Space
House-Large-Garden
Daily Exercise
30 to 45 min/day
Ideal Weather
-5°C to 22°C
Cognitive Benchmarks
Adaptability
20%
Attention
20%
Playfulness
30%
Communication Style
Stress Signals
withdrawal, appetite loss, hiding, gentle pacing, avoidance
Care & Wellness
Professional Care Protocol
- •Daily vigorous exercise in secure fenced areas. The harsh coat needs brushing weekly and periodic tidying. Bloat/GDV is a serious risk — multiple small meals and restricted post-meal exercise. Anaesthetic sensitivity as for all sighthounds.
Nutrition Notes
Giant sighthound — needs giant breed formula as puppy. Bloat risk. Sighthound anaesthesia sensitivity. Osteosarcoma risk (like Irish Wolfhound). Anti-inflammatory, omega-3-rich diet recommended.
Vaccination Schedule
Vaccination Schedule
Senior Care
DCM and osteosarcoma — primary causes of death. Bloat. Factor VII deficiency (bleeding disorder — DNA test). Cystinuria. Very similar health profile to Irish Wolfhound. Short lifespan (8-11 years). The "Royal Dog of Scotland" — once only nobility could own them.
Wellbeing Activities
Nutrition & Sustenance
Daily Calories (Adult)
2200 kcal
Daily Calories (Young)
1800 kcal
Recommended Foods
Foods to Avoid
Health Overview
Osteosarcoma and cardiac disease are the leading causes of early death. Bloat/GDV is a significant risk. Cardiomyopathy and Factor VII deficiency (a bleeding disorder) occur. Hip dysplasia. Anaesthetic sensitivity.
Common Conditions
Price Estimates
Pricing Guide
Average estimates as of 2025
Among the rarest breeds globally — fewer than 1,000 puppies registered annually in most countries. India: essentially unavailable. Often confused with Irish Wolfhound — Deerhounds are lighter built.
Purchase Price
$1,500 to $3,500
Adoption Fee
$100 to $500
Data from 2025
Fun Facts
Sir Walter Scott described the Deerhound as "a most perfect creature of heaven."
The Deerhound was historically restricted to ownership by nobility in Scotland — it was illegal for anyone below the rank of Earl to own one.
A Deerhound named Maida was Sir Walter Scott's beloved companion, depicted at his feet in portraits.
