Scottish Deerhound

The Scottish Deerhound, another of the Greyhound types, became a distinct breed because of where it lived and its purpose: to hunt the large deer of the Scottish highlands. This was how the Scottish Deerhound became known as the "Royal Dog of Scotland."

The Scottish Deerhound is a quiet dog who trusts and loves people, including children. He needs human friendship and will be a devoted companion to his caring owner. He is quiet and dignified in the house. His wiry coat, with soft beard and moustache, requires a quick brushing a few times a week. He is eager to please and should be handled at all times with gentle persuasion.

He is slightly smaller and lighter in build than the Irish Wolfhound. His color is usually dark gray, but can also be light gray, yellow, red fawn or sandy red.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance: Resembling a large, rough-coated Greyhound; easy moving.

Size, Proportion, and Substance: Height--males, 30 to 32 inches or more; females, 28 inches or more. Weight--males, 85 to 110 pounds; females, 75 to 95 pounds.

Fun Facts

The Scottish Deerhound was prized during the Middle Ages for his hunting skill and courage, and for his gentle manners. During the Age of Chivalry, only nobles could own a Deerhound. If a nobleman was condemned to death, he could save himself by giving up his Deerhounds. The Deerhound was the prized companion of the Highland Chieftains, whose power ended in the 1700s when England overtook Scotland. In the following centuries the Scottish Deerhound almost became extinct, but in the twentieth century, the breed was successfully brought back.

Excerpted from The Complete Dog Book For Kids © 1996, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.