Scottish Deerhounds being a giant breed do not normally have as long a life span as some of the other pure bred dogs. The average life span of a Scottish Deerhound is only 9 to 14 years. Combining the shortened life span with potential medical difficulties - it is essential that the prospective owner diligently search for a Scottish Deerhound breeder with a long lived, genetically sound bloodline.

Bloat (GDV)
     Bloat must not be ignored.  If your dog looks "bulgy", is pacing with anxiety and drooling a bit, he cannot sit or lie down comfortably and is in general distress, get moving now, get to a veterinarian.
For more information, please see: Medical Index/G.V.D. or bloat.

Cardiomyopathy
     Cardiomyopathy is a term used to describe a condition which occurs to the heart muscle, when one or more diseases cause inflammation and scarring.  This inflammation and scarring causes an enlargement of the heart itself, and the chambers within the heart dilate and become less efficient in supplying the body and organs with blood.  The end result of a dog suffering from this condition is that the heart muscle will eventually weaken and the dog will develop congestive heart failure, and will die.
For further information please see Medical Index/Cardiomyopathy.

Hypothyroidism
       This disease affects many breeds of dog.  A simple blood test will determine the existence of the condition.  The symptoms can include skin and coat problems, sudden onset of aggressive behavior, itching, lethargy, musky odor, and many more to keep it simple.
For further information please see: Medical Index/Hypothyroidism.

Anesthetics
        Scottish Deerhounds normally have very low body fat. This makes most Scottish Deerhounds particularly sensitive to barbiturate-based anesthetics. Be sure to discuss this potential difficulty with your veterinarian prior to any surgery.

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