Living with a Deerhound

Sharing your life with a Deerhound: There is something very special about this magnificent animal. In times past one can imagine it sprawled, relaxed, in front of a blazing open fire place in one of the great halls in the highlands of Scotland or perhaps out hunting deer when a Scottish chieftain held one of their grand hunting parties. Times may have changed but in essence the Deerhound has not. This is truly a grand animal that carries himself with quiet dignity. It is keen in the field but gentle in the home.
Those who own the breed are understandably besotted by them but it is certainly not the breed for every one. They are a very large dog, and even though they can take up surprisingly little space when curled up, it is a very different story when they are sprawled out on your sofa!
The Deerhound requires space, exercise, and a certain amount of strength to control them and adequate fencing is needed around the home. Owners should also bear in mind that even though they love large dogs not everyone does and, even though no harm is intended, having an unrestrained Deerhound approaching at full speed can be a little daunting! Another thing to consider is that the Deerhound, being a very large dog, requires a lot more food than one of the smaller breeds.
Even though many Deerhound owners are devoted only to this breed and would not have any other type of dog, there are other Deerhounds that enjoy sharing their lives with much smaller companions. Our own three Deerhounds share their lives with their much smaller 'brother' Jake the Welsh Springer Spaniel. Managed sensibly, this need not be a problem.

Deerhounds and children:  Anyone whose dogs come into close contact with children must be sure that each treats the other with respect. Deerhounds are very tolerant and enjoy the company of children. Nevertheless, like all dogs, Deerhounds do appreciate some peace and quiet and their tolerance should never be put to the test. It is up to everyone to be a responsible dog owner at all times. `

Lifespan:  In general, large breeds do not live as long as smaller ones so owners should not expect a Deerhound to live well into it’s teens. Indeed there are a few that do but ten or eleven years is a good age for a Deerhound. Sadly there are those who do not make it into double figures.

The love and devotion of a dog is a privilege bestowed upon us, please enjoy every moment of the experience!
 

Jacqui with Skye

Auntie Peg with Ellie
as a 5 month old puppy