Close your eyes. Picture a dog that’s as imposing as a small horse, with a heart as gentle as a lamb. This, dear reader, is the Scottish Deerhound – the royal dog of Scotland and a breed that, despite its grandeur, remains relatively unknown to the masses. The dichotomy of a hound with a noble presence and a lovable personality may seem almost contradictory, which is why we need to settle an important question: Is a Scottish Deerhound a good family dog?
To answer the question, let’s embark on a journey through the hills and glens of Scotland and get to know better this majestic creature.
Scottish Deerhounds, known as “Royal Dogs of Scotland,” are often associated with nobility. These dogs, which were historically used for hunting red deer, are characterized by their striking stature, wiry coats, and slender, graceful bodies. Despite their seemingly intimidating appearance, the deerhounds are known for their mild and gentle disposition.
They’re tall, with males standing at 30 to 32 inches at the shoulder and females at 28 inches. Their weight can range from 75 to 110 pounds, which is quite significant compared to the average dog. But don’t worry; they are not as muscular as they seem. Their physique is lean, allowing them to chase prey at high speeds in the past.
One of the most notable characteristics of the Scottish Deerhound is its personality. The breed is often praised for being friendly, docile, and extremely affectionate. Despite their hunting legacy, Deerhounds are quiet dogs, known to be non-aggressive and even good with children. They rarely bark and are known to be lovable couch potatoes, swiftly segueing into domestic life with ease.
The hound’s disposition makes it an excellent pet for families. They are loyal to their owners and form strong attachments. This breed is sociable and gets along well with other dogs and even cats when properly introduced. This tolerant temperament is particularly appealing for families with young children or other pets.
Deerhounds are intelligent dogs, and with a certain air of dignity, they expect to be treated with respect. Training them can be exciting since they’re always eager to learn new things. Some might describe the breed as slightly stubborn, but with patience and positive reinforcement, they are capable of understanding and following a wide range of commands.
However, every rose does come attached with thorns. Despite their affable nature, Deerhounds do come with certain considerations that potential owners should bear in mind.
Firstly, like all large breeds, they require generous amounts of space. A small apartment might prove constricting for the Deerhound, and they need regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being.
In terms of health, Scottish Deerhounds are generally healthy but are prone to certain conditions like bloating or heart problems common among deep-chested breeds. Regular vet check-ups and a balanced diet can help mitigate these risks.
One other aspect to think about is their coat. Deerhounds have a wiry coat that needs regular grooming to avoid tangles or matting. While it’s not the most complicated routine, brushing their coat weekly will keep it in good condition and prevent skin problems.
Moreover, owning a Deerhound may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners. Their stubbornness and size make them a handful at times and someone with experience will understand their needs better.
Lastly, Scottish Deerhounds have a shorter life expectancy than most breeds, generally around 8-11 years. They truly become a part of your family, and their loss can be a challenging time.
In summary, the Scottish Deerhound can indeed make a fantastic family pet, showcasing a blend of nobility, loyalty, gentleness, and affection. Families who can provide sufficient space, time for exercise, have a pretty clear schedule, with regular grooming and health care routines, will find a perfect companion in a Deerhound.
It’s true you’ll need to adjust your life for them, but in return, you’ll be blessed with a gentle giant who will grace your home with loyalty, love, and a sumptuous bit of Scottish regality.
As we conclude our trek through the Scottish highlands, knowing more about the Royal Dogs of Scotland, we hope this article has made you well-informed about whether this breed is the right choice for your family. Perhaps one day, you too will have a Scottish Deerhound lazing on your living room rug, a warm symbol of history and companionship. Believe us when we say – your life would be richer for it.
