Scottish deerhound Breed description: Character & Co

The Deerhound or Scottish Deerhound is an ancient British hunting dog breed.

The origin of the Scottish Deerhound

The roots of the Deerhound lie in the ancient Celtic & even older Oriental greyhounds. They came to the island with the trade and migrations. In the harsh north of Scotland this unique shaggy sighthound type was formed.

Traditionally, the Deerhound was used to hunt game. It drove deer out of the undergrowth into clearings where archers could shoot on sight. Later, when firearms became common, this dog's job was "deer stalking", tracking game alongside the hunter.

According to tradition, the Deerhound was nearly extinct by 1830. Thanks to the efforts of brothers Archibald McNeill and Lord Colonsay, the beautiful Highland hound was preserved. The McNeill-Colonsay line is considered the basis of all Deerhound breeding today. In 1886 the British Deerhound Club was founded, which formulates the breed standards until today.

The breed characteristics of the Deerhound

The trademark of this dog is the silver-grey, rough coat. In Great Britain, Deerhounds are still regarded as loyal companions of noble gentlemen and ladies. Also with us there are more and more people who would like to buy a Deerhound. The dog is considered to be a very likeable dog and a perfect family dog. The German name for this dog is "schottischer Hirschund".

The Deerhound is a breed recognized by the FCI and is listed under Standard No. 164, Group 10: Sighthounds and Section 2: Rough-coated Sighthounds.

• rough-coated sighthound from Scotland
• very elegant dog breed
• as companion for active individuals or families