Deerhound Breed Guide

Nov 28, 2024

Meet the Deerhound, the gentle giant of the dog world, known for their grace, speed, and, let’s be honest, ridiculously long legs. Don’t be fooled by their size; despite towering over most other dogs, the Deerhound is a soft-hearted pooch with a laid-back attitude. Think of them as a canine version of a supermodel—elegant, long-limbed, and often found lounging around between runs down the runway (or in this case, your garden).

While they might have once been Scotland’s top deer-hunting dogs, these days Deerhounds are more likely to be found snuggled up on the sofa than chasing down prey. That said, give them space to run, and you’ll see them spring into action—after all, those long legs weren’t made for standing still!

THE BASICS:

Category: Hound
Size: Large (34-50 kg of leggy, lean elegance)
Exercise Needs: 1-2 hours per day (plus time for zoomies)
Grooming: Moderate maintenance, weekly brushing to tame that wiry coat
Coat: Harsh and wiry (perfect for withstanding Scotland’s wild weather)
Shedding: Moderate
Health Issues: Bloat, heart disease, bone cancer, hip dysplasia
Lifespan: 8-11 years
Home Needs: Medium to large home with a garden (space to stretch those long legs)
Sociability: Gentle with family, reserved with strangers, generally gets along with other dogs but small animals beware!

HISTORY: FROM SCOTLAND’S HIGHLANDS TO YOUR SOFA

The Deerhound has been around for centuries, originating in the Scottish Highlands where they were bred to hunt red deer. These dogs were prized by the Scottish nobility for their ability to chase down and catch deer over vast, rugged landscapes. Known as “the Royal Dog of Scotland,” Deerhounds were held in such high regard that only those of noble birth were allowed to own them. Talk about a posh pooch!

Fast forward to today, and while they’re no longer hunting deer, they’ve retained that air of elegance and nobility. Now, they’re more likely to be spotted gracefully trotting through the park or snoozing on the most comfortable spot in the house. But don’t be fooled—they’re still just as happy to have a sprint when the mood strikes.

DEERHOUND PERSONALITY: GENTLE, AFFECTIONATE, AND A LITTLE LAID-BACK

Despite their impressive size, Deerhounds are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They’re incredibly friendly and loyal, forming strong bonds with their families. These dogs are famously easy-going, happy to spend the day lounging around with their humans, but don’t think they’re lazy! Give them a chance to run, and they’ll take off like a greyhound at the races (but probably slower to come back).

Deerhounds are also incredibly polite with strangers. They won’t bark at visitors or jump all over guests; instead, they’ll likely watch from a distance with quiet dignity, waiting to see if this new human is worthy of their attention. While they get along well with other dogs, they might not be the best fit for homes with small animals like cats or rabbits—their hunting instincts can kick in at any moment.

Training a Deerhound can be an exercise in patience. They’re intelligent, but they’ve got a bit of an independent streak and may decide that they know best. Keep training sessions short, fun, and packed with Scrumbles Softies: Training Treats, and you’ll keep them interested.

HOW MUCH EXERCISE DOES A DEERHOUND NEED?

The Deerhound may have been bred for running, but they’re also pretty good at relaxing. These dogs need around 1-2 hours of exercise per day, which should include some time to let them stretch their long legs and enjoy a good sprint. They love wide-open spaces where they can run at full tilt, so if you’ve got a safe, secure area, let them loose and watch them fly!

But don’t worry, when they’re not chasing imaginary deer across the garden, Deerhounds are more than happy to chill out and enjoy a quiet life at home. They’re sometimes called “40mph couch potatoes,” because while they can run fast, they also excel at lounging.

For keeping your Deerhound’s energy levels up and supporting their active lifestyle, try Scrumbles Duck Wet Dog Food—packed with the right balance of nutrients for this large, lean breed.

HOW TO GROOM A DEERHOUND: MAINTAINING THAT SHAGGY CHIC

The Deerhound’s shaggy, wiry coat might look like it’s all-natural (and it mostly is), but it does need a bit of maintenance. A weekly brush will help remove dead hair and keep their coat looking tidy, and occasional trimming around the feet and ears will prevent them from looking too unkempt.

Deerhounds shed moderately, so while you won’t be drowning in dog hair, you’ll still want to give them a brush more often during shedding season (spring and autumn). Their coat is designed to withstand the Scottish weather, so don’t worry too much if they enjoy a romp in the rain—they’re built for it! Just make sure they’re dried off afterward.

And let’s not forget dental care—like all large dogs, Deerhounds benefit from regular tooth brushing to keep their teeth in top shape. Scrumbles Gnashers are a great way to help maintain those pearly whites and keep their breath fresh after a day of running and lounging.

HEALTH: THE CHALLENGES OF BEING A GENTLE GIANT

While Deerhounds are generally healthy dogs, like many large breeds, they’re prone to certain health issues. Bloat is one of the biggest concerns—this life-threatening condition can affect deep-chested dogs, so it’s important to feed them smaller meals throughout the day and avoid exercising immediately before or after eating.

Deerhounds are also at risk for heart disease, bone cancer, and hip dysplasia, so regular vet check-ups and a healthy, balanced diet are essential. Because of their sensitive stomachs, you’ll want to feed them high-quality food that’s gentle on their digestion. Scrumbles Salmon Dry Dog Food is an excellent option, packed with Omega 3 and 6 to support their skin, coat, and joint health.

FUN FACTS ABOUT THE DEERHOUND

Speedy Sprinters: Despite their size, Deerhounds can reach impressive speeds of up to 40mph—just don’t expect them to maintain that pace for long!
Royal Connections: Historically, only Scottish nobility were allowed to own Deerhounds, so your pooch comes with a royal seal of approval.
Couch Potato Champions: They’re one of the few breeds that can sprint like an athlete and then flop down on the sofa like a pro within minutes.

LIVING WITH A DEERHOUND: LAID-BACK BUT FULL OF LOVE

Living with a Deerhound is like having your very own gentle giant—one who loves nothing more than a run followed by a long nap. These dogs are affectionate, loyal, and incredibly good-natured, making them ideal for families or individuals looking for a calm, friendly companion. Just be prepared for their size—Deerhounds may not take up much emotional space, but physically? Let’s just say you’ll be sharing the sofa.

They thrive in homes with space to run, but once they’ve had their daily exercise, they’re content to curl up and relax. If you’re looking for a dog who can keep up on a countryside hike but also enjoys lazy Sundays, the Deerhound is the paw-fect match.

For rewarding their good behaviour and showing them some love, Scrumbles Softies: Training Treats will keep them happy and motivated.

IS THE DEERHOUND THE RIGHT DOG FOR YOU?

If you’re looking for a large, gentle, and loyal dog who loves to run but is just as happy to lounge around with you after, the Deerhound might be your ideal companion. They’re great for active households with plenty of space to stretch their legs, but they’re also calm, loving pets who adore their families.

With the right exercise, care, and a nutritious diet from Scrumbles, your Deerhound will be a healthy, happy, and elegant companion for years to come.

RECOMMENDED SCRUMBLES PRODUCTS FOR THE DEERHOUND

Scrumbles Duck Wet Dog Food: High in protein to support their lean muscles and active lifestyle.
Scrumbles Salmon Dry Dog Food: Rich in Omega 3 and 6, perfect for supporting their joints, coat, and sensitive stomachs.
Scrumbles Gnashers: Ideal for keeping their teeth clean and breath fresh, especially for large breeds prone to dental issues.
Scrumbles Softies: Training Treats: Perfect for rewarding good behaviour and keeping your Deerhound motivated during training sessions (or just for being their elegant selves).

With the right balance of exercise, plenty of love, and a nutritious diet from Scrumbles, your Deerhound will be a loyal, gentle, and elegant companion for years to come. Whether they’re sprinting across fields or lounging in their favourite spot, you’ll quickly discover why these graceful giants are such treasured pets. They might look like they belong in the Scottish Highlands, but they’ll feel right at home curled up next to you!