Information, Facts & Origins of the Scottish Deerhound - Sighthound
The Scottish Deerhound originates from Scotland as its name indicates - The Royal Dog of Scotland. It is a dog of massive size with a very large powerful body, greyhound-like shape and gracefully built. The Scottish Deerhound was bred originally to hunt stags. It's origins can be dated back to antiquity but was specifically bred during the 1400's. It is classified as one of the Hound Dogs Group which we go on to describe in detail in the section at the bottom of this page. Scottish Deerhound Dog Names
Bay DogsThe Scottish Deerhound - A Sighthound
The Scottish Deerhound Hound belongs to the collection of dogs referred to as Sighthounds or Gazehounds, which specialise in hunting its quarry by sight rather than scent. It wasn’t until the mid 1500's that hounds began to be classified according to their purpose, i.e. sight hounds, scent hounds, etc. Sighthounds have distinctive characteristics, features and traits which are perfect for their purpose. Sighthounds have extremely good vision. They also have a long jaw and lengthy neck which assists them in sighting their quarry. Their lean muscular body, deep chest and long powerful legs essential assets when following any fast and agile prey. Sighthounds also have distinctive feet with elongated middle toes that make the foot appear longer and helps with their firm footing. Their long stride, powerful chest and lungs and agile bodies make it possible for sight hounds to chase and kill their quarry. As a pet, although they were bred to hunt deer, this dog is gentle, gracious and well-mannered. It is good around children and will adapt well to family life but special consideration must be given to the practicalities of keeping such a large dog. Information, Facts and History of the Scottish Deerhound Hound Dog
The Scottish Deerhound Hound is a very old sight hound dog breed originating in Scotland. The Scottish Deerhound was originally used to hunt large game, in particular, stags. This dog is also known by the shortened name, of simply, the Deerhound. This courageous dog was favoured by Scottish Chieftains and Royalty and showed exceptional prowess in hunting deer - stag hunting. The breed dates back to antiquity and they were used in great wars and battles to pull men off their horses - one of the famous War Dogs. The dog was given as a gift to European royalty and greatly valued in areas where there was a proliferation of deer. At one stage only Royalty and the nobility were allowed to own such a dog, in fact, no one with a rank lower than an Earl was allowed to own one - it was very much a status symbol during the Renaissance. As the deer population declined in England the Deerhound fell from favour, but was still greatly valued in the Scottish Highlands where the terrain suited the wild deer. The Battle of Culloden on Wednesday, April 16th, 1746 defeated Bonnie Prince Charlie and blasted the Jacobite hopes. This famous defeat sounded the death knell for the old Highland way of life and in resulted in the breakdown of the Clan system. It also resulted in the decline of the Scottish Deerhound breed. Changes to hunting deer with guns also added to the decline of the breed - but their popularity rose again in the mid 1800's with the advent of the Scottish Deerhound Dog Club. The breed was taken around the world by immigrants and their usage as working dogs changed according to the location. In Australia the Scottish Deerhound was put to use to keep down the kangaroo population and to hunt the dingo. The Scottish Deerhound was first registered by the AKC (American Kennel Club) in 1886. Description of the Scottish Deerhound Dog and Puppies - Coat and Colours info
The Scottish Deerhound's coat can be grey, brindle, red, black, pure white, or fawn. The coat is harsh, rough and shaggy. Dog Health information - potential health problems of the Scottish Deerhounds
All owners of dogs and puppies are concerned about the health care of their pets and just as with humans dog health issues arise from time to time. Resolving dog health problems, including those of the Scottish Deerhound, can prove to be costly and it would be wise to consider the benefits of obtaining dog health insurance. Diseases in dogs may occur because of trauma, infection, immune system abnormalities, genetic factors, or degenerative conditions. Common health problems and questions occur in relation to the Bones, Joints, Muscles, Nerves, Ears, Eyes, Teeth and the Mouth. Other, more serious, issues can relate to the Digestive System, Heart & Respiratory Systems, Immune & Blood Systems, Reproduction and Urinary Systems. Potential health problems of the Scottish Deerhound may be checked via the Dog Symptoms Sorter, but can include:- Cardiomyopathy
- Gastric Torsion
Online Encyclopaedia of Common Dog Health Problems
Please click the following link for additional information which we have provided via our: Online Encyclopaedia of Common Dog Health Problems This describes the most common canine health problems concisely but simply without using medical jargon. A section on Dog and Puppy Vaccinations is also included offering information on each of the diseases, symptoms and effects for which immunization vaccines are available. Not sure of the name of the dog or puppy illness? A Dog Illness Symptoms Sorter is also featured. The Online Encyclopaedia of Common Dog Health Problems should only be used as an informational guide and when and if any dog or puppies health problems occur it is essential to raise any questions you may have with a Dog Health care professional. |
