History and Origins of the Scottish Deerhound

History and Origins of the Scottish Deerhound

The History and Origins of the Scottish Deerhound is really interesting. The history of the Scottish Deerhound began centuries ago in Scotland where this dog was developed for hunting deer across difficult terrain in the Scottish Highlands. The Scottish breeders developed the dog so that it had a wiry, rough coat that would protect it whilst out hunting in poor weather conditions. This dependable, giant sized breed was an enthusiastic, avid sight hound that had the power and strength to pursue deer. The Scottish Deerhound was the dog to use for deer hunting and it was regarded so highly that at one time, the breed was not permitted to be owned by anybody ranking less than an earl. Due to the ownership of this breed being dependent on status, the dog almost became extinct until breeders saved it and began breeding again in the early part of the 1800s.

History and Origins - How the Scottish Deerhound got its name

The history and origins of the Scottish Deerhound continues with how the dog got his name! When the breed was first developed, it was known as the Scotch Greyhound, Highland Deerhound and Rough Greyhound. During the 16th and 17th centuries, the breed became clearly identifiable and this lead it to being given the name 'Scottish Deerhound'. The name derived partly from the breed originating in Scotland and being developed by the Scottish, and also the fact that it was a hound that was once used for the hunting and killing of red deer by coursing. The AKC (American Kennel Club) recognized this breed in the year of 1886.

History and Origins of the Scottish Deerhound