In a remote, quiet corner of Scotland, hundreds of years ago, a unique breed of dog was born. This breed was to become a favorite companion of Scottish nobility, renowned for their speed, strength, and grace. They were a common sight on the rough, rugged terrains of the Scottish highlands. We’re not talking about any breed of dog, but the one and only, the majestic Scottish Deerhound.
Ever heard about them? No? Well, allow us to introduce you to this amazing breed, and perhaps by the end of this deep-dive, you’ll consider snuggling up with one on your couch.
With their woolly fur and gentle gaze, Scottish Deerhounds might seem like any other large dogs at first glance, but trust us, they are much more than that. Imagine characters from one of Sir Walter Scott’s novels coming alive – that’s a Scottish Deerhound for you! Truly one would be forgiven for mistaking them for a creature from a fairy tale or an enchanted universe.
Before we examine whether a Scottish Deerhound could be the perfect first dog for you, let’s learn some more about them. Besides their tall stature and wiry hair, what truly sets this breed apart is their personality. These dogs are the epitome of gentle giants, carrying a mystique that commands both curiosity and respect.
Scottish Deerhounds are couch potatoes who love to lounge around. You might often spot them sprawled across the floor, or even better, occupying your favorite couch. But don’t be fooled by their seemingly lazy demeanor. When the need arises, these dogs can sprint at impressive speeds, making them effective hunting dogs and great companions for a sprint or jog in the park.
Despite their athletic qualities, Scottish Deerhounds lack aggression, which makes them rather terrible guard dogs. They would rather wag their tail at an intruder than bark or attack. This absence of hostility combined with their gentle demeanor makes them great with kids and other animals, turning your house into a harmony-filled haven.
That said, Scottish Deerhounds are not for everyone. They need ample space and can’t be confined to a small apartment—a home with a backyard is more suitable. It’s not just the space– this breed also requires regular exercise to remain active & healthy. They’re sprinters but need controlled environments for their bursts of speed considering they might chase after anything that runs, maybe even your neighborhood’s cat; after all, they were bred to hunt.
So the question hangs in the air, would a Scottish Deerhound make a good first dog?
The answer to this question largely depends on your readiness to invest time, effort, and patience in this breed. Scottish Deerhounds are generally easy to train as they’re eager to please and intelligent. Considering they are a sensitive breed, gentle, positive reinforcement works best for training.
It’s also crucial to remember that they are a giant breed, and that comes with its own set of challenges. The food bills will undoubtedly be higher than that for a smaller dog, and being prone to certain health issues like heart conditions and bone cancer means potential veterinary costs.
The lifespan of a Scottish Deerhound, like many large dog breeds, is relatively short, usually about 7-8 years. Preparing for the emotional toll of losing a pet is an important aspect of pet ownership that one must take into account.
In conclusion, while the Scottish Deerhound could make a wonderful first dog for someone with ample space & time, and a commitment to healthy, active living, these gentle giants are not the best fit for everyone. They are an enchanting breed that requires a truly devoted owner.
If you’re someone with an abundance of love and passion for such a majestic, ancient breed and are ready to invest in their upkeep and care, a Scottish Deerhound could become more than just a good first dog. They could become a life-long companion, a best friend, and a family member who will shower you with unconditional love and loyalty. What a wonderful way to start your journey as a dog owner, wouldn’t you agree?
