Deerhound

The Deerhound, also known as the Scottish Deerhound, is a large breed of hound, historically bred to hunt red deer. They are known for their gentle nature, dignified demeanor, and impressive size. Deerhounds are sight hounds, meaning they hunt primarily by sight rather than scent.

Despite their hunting heritage, Deerhounds are generally calm and quiet indoors. They bond strongly with their families and make loyal companions. However, their strong prey drive means they require secure fencing and careful management around smaller animals.

The Deerhound's history is deeply intertwined with the clans of Scotland. For centuries, these dogs were the exclusive companions of the Scottish nobility, prized for their courage and ability to bring down large stags. Their lineage dates back to ancient breeds of dogs used by the Celts.

As the Highland clan system declined, the Deerhound population suffered. In the 19th century, enthusiasts like Archibald and Duncan McNeill worked to revive the breed by carefully selecting and breeding surviving specimens. They are closely related to the Irish Wolfhound, sharing a common ancestry.

Today, the Deerhound is a relatively rare breed, but they continue to be admired for their unique combination of elegance and athleticism. They are excellent sighthounds with unique personalities.

Interesting Facts About the Breed

• Deerhounds are one of the tallest dog breeds.
• They have a distinctive rough, wiry coat.
• Deerhounds need a lot of exercise due to their sighthound history.
• They are known for their gentle and affectionate nature with their families.
• The Deerhound is susceptible to certain health problems, including bloat and cardiomyopathy.
• They were traditionally used to hunt red deer in the Scottish Highlands.