Scottish Deerhound

Dog breed profile

The Scottish Deerhound is a majestic and ancient breed with roots in Scotland, where it was developed to hunt red deer across rugged terrain. Known for its wiry coat and impressive size, this breed combines strength with elegance. Scottish Deerhounds are gentle and friendly dogs that tend to be calm indoors but enjoy daily exercise to stay healthy. Their independent nature means they respond best to patient and consistent training methods. This breed thrives in homes with ample space to run and is well-suited for experienced owners who can meet their activity and grooming needs. They generally get along well with children and other dogs, making them a loyal family companion. Regular veterinary care is important to monitor for health tendencies common in large breeds. Overall, the Scottish Deerhound offers a blend of noble history, affectionate temperament, and moderate exercise requirements for those prepared to provide a suitable environment.

Temperament & Traits

Common Traits

gentle friendly intelligent calm independent
Energy Level 3/5
Trainability 3/5
Vocal / Barking 2/5

Health & Care

Common Health Issues

  • bloat (gastric torsion)
  • cardiomyopathy
  • osteosarcoma
  • hypothyroidism

Grooming Needs

Weekly brushing to manage the wiry coat and occasional hand-stripping or trimming to maintain coat texture.

Exercise Needs

Daily exercise including long walks and opportunities to run safely off-leash are important to meet energy needs.

Health Notes

Regular veterinary checkups and screenings are important to monitor for common health tendencies. Maintaining a healthy weight and providing appropriate exercise can support overall wellbeing.

Is a Scottish Deerhound Right for You?

Best suited for experienced dog owners with space and time for exercise. Good with families and gentle with children but not ideal for apartment living.

Space & Home Environment

Best in a home with a large fenced yard or access to open spaces for running.

Breeders with Scottish Deerhound Dogs

View all Scottish Deerhound breeders →
Scottish Deerhound Puppies for Sale

Scottish Deerhound Puppies for Sale

by Torphy-Shields Kennels · Fairview Village, PA

$854 – $2,819 USD

Posted Nov 4, 2025