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Deerhound - Information and NZ Breed Standards

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Deerhound


General Information - Deerhound


Group:
hound

Size:
large

Lifespan:
12-14 years

Exercise:
medium

Grooming:
medium

Trainability:
low

Watchdog ability:
very low

Protection ability:
low

Area of Origin:
Scotland

Date of Origin:
Middle Ages

Other Names:
Scottish deerhound

Original Function:
coursing stag



History

The Scottish Deerhound, also known simply as the Deerhound, was developed in the 800's in Scotland to hunt deer. It is believed that its ancestors which go back to the Greyhound lines brought to the British Isles by Phoenician traders around 1000 BC. Its main use was as a hunting dog for the nobility; it actually could find, track, catch and capture its prey. Its usefulness and popularity declined when sporting guns became available. It is valued today as a noble companion dog. It is similar to the Irish Wolfhound, but lighter and sleeker, due to the Greyhound blood in its past.

Temperament

The Scottish Deerhound is a loyal, affectionate and easily trained gentle giant who requires outdoor activity. Deerhounds are quiet, loving, friendly and excellent with children. Very courageous and dignified, devoted and loyal, but they are not watch or guard dogs, for they just love everyone. The Scottish Deerhound can be willful at times and slow to obey commands. Although friendly with other dogs, they should not be trusted with non-canine pets. The Scottish Deerhound has an unusual cry.

Upkeep

The Deerhound needs a good amount of daily exercise, either a long walk or a romp in a safe area. Although physically suited to outdoor living in temperate or cool climates, it prefers to live inside with its family and needs human companionship. Regardless, it needs soft bedding to avoid calluses. The crisp coat needs combing one or two times weekly. Some scissoring is optional to neaten up straggling hair, plus minimal stripping around the face and ears

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