Do you like to run at least ten miles every day, no matter what the weather?  Do you like long hikes in the woods and forests, up hill and down?  Do you mind having a dog dictate your lifestyle?  Do you have a romantic's interest in the history of the Middle Ages, and desire a living link to that time?  Do you enjoy a 115+ pound snuggle pooch, or lap dog? Do you mind sharing your bed, and various other comfortable articles of furniture, with this lap dog?  Do you have a sense of humor when this 115+ pound dog bodyslams into you to get your attention, or just to play?  Can your feet survive this dog's standing on them, so that the dog can be sure you appreciate his/her weight?  Can you afford feeding each dog at least ten cups of kibble, plus assorted meats, vegatables, and dairy products every day?  Do you have room in your home for a dog that is at least 28 inches at the shoulders, with the possibility of it becoming even taller?  Then this, dear reader, is the dog for you.
     The Scottish Deerhound is a handsome, elegant sight hound.  He is loyal and devoted to his family.  This dog is easily trained with gentleness and love.  This is a large, rough-coated dog, that needs regular brushing to keep his coat neat and clean.  They are quiet dogs, they seldom bark even when they are hunting.  They have a dignified, and alert manner about them. The Scottish Deerhound has an interesting combination of strengths to their personality in that they can be gentle with their family members, and still possess staying power when hunting.  They are sensitive to their home environment and yet possess great strength.  They are docile, and yet, are incredibly courageous. The Scottish Deerhound, for all this, is not a watch dog nor a guard dog.  This breed is not aggressive. Their size is intimidating, and yet, if they are not hunting, they are just incredibly laid back and relaxed.  Their most favorite forms of entertainment is to chase (hunt) other animals, and to run full tilt.  Deer, rabbits, squirrels, and the neighbor's cat are all part of the entertainment package as far as the Scottish Deerhound is concerned.  They have an athletic ability that is awesome, and beautiful to watch. However, be prepared to replace the neighbor's cat.
     These dogs need early socialization and obedience training as puppies.  Their size when full grown dictates that this is absolutely necessary.  It is best to give one on one attention, as exposure to different environments and experiences the dog needs to have its confidence built up.  This breed is very sensitive to the things that are happening to its family unit.  If there is strife or tension within the family, this dog will sense it and become sick to the point it can seriously damage its own health.  Also, these are not outside dogs.  They may be a hunting hound, but they crave, and need, human companionship.
     The average height for a male is 30 inches, or more.  The female averages 28 inches, or more.  Their weight can range between 80 pounds, or more, for the female; and 100 pounds, or more, for the male.
     The lifespan of large breeds of dog are variable.  The Scottish Deerhound male usually averages between 8 and 14 years.  The female averages 9 to 14 years.  For the life of your dog it is imperative that proper and proactive veterinarian care be given.
     The Scottish Deerhound is very sensitive to anesthesia, that is why you will need a veterinarian that can anticipate problems, and try not to use general anesthesia.  Whenever possible a local anesthesia should be used. There have also been reactions seen in these dogs to some drugs, including wormers, some types of antibiotics, and  some of the pesticides used in flea preventative products.
     Bloat is another danger to the Scottish Deerhound.  They are large, deep-chested, and if the dog is not exercised and/or the meal schedule is not strictly adhered to, the danger from bloat is very high.  This is a life threatening situation and immediate veterinarian care is necessary to save your dog's life.
     There are some other medical problems that new owners should be aware of.  Not all Scottish Deerhounds develop these problems, it is just that this conditions are common for the breed.  Please refer to the article on Medical Conditions of the Scottish Deerhound.

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