Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound is described by the AKC as dignified, gentle, polite, a member of the Hound Group, originally from Scotland.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 30-32 inches (male), 28 inches & up (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 85-110 pounds (male), 75-95 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 8–11+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Dignified / Gentle / Polite [1] |
| AKC group | Hound Group [1] |
| Origin | Scotland [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 156 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Deerhound puppies are difficult to raise to their potential without a companion playmate and a large, securely fenced play area. This breed cannot be left crated in the house while the owner is at work all day if it is to develop properly to adulthood, both physically and mentally. Both puppies and adults need to be able to exercise freely on a daily basis and do what Deerhounds were bred to do'¿run for the sheer joy of running. [1]
Grooming
The Scottish Deerhound's harsh, somewhat wiry coat is very easy to care for, requiring only an all-over brushing and combing every week or so. He will also need a trim of his nails every few weeks if they aren't worn down naturally. Grooming tools to have on hand include a slicker brush, a fine-toothed metal dog comb, and an electric nail grinder or a pair of heavy-duty dog nail clippers. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Although a giant breed, a significant percentage of Scottish Deerhounds live to old age. While the breed does have some genetic health issues, the good news is many of the problems can be avoided, prevented, or treated successfully if the owner is proactive. Puppy buyers should buy a puppy from a responsible breeder who does the breed's recommended health tests and will be a resource for the dog¿s entire life. Another key to Deerhound health (in addition to good genes) is for the dog to be happy and well exercised. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Cardiac Exam, Coagulation Factor VII Deficiency - DNA Test, Bile Acid Test, Delayed Post-Operative Hemorrhage (DEPOH) - DNA Test. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a giant dog (median $607) | $350 – $1,373 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Scottish Deerhound in 1886. [1]
- It ranked No. 156 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 152 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Deerhound, Royal Dog of Scotland.” [1]
- The AKC lists Scotland as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 4 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Cardiac Exam, Coagulation Factor VII Deficiency - DNA Test. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 5/5)
Common questions
How long do Scottish Deerhounds live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 8-11 years.
How big does a Scottish Deerhound get?
AKC breed information lists height 30-32 inches (male), 28 inches & up (female) and weight 85-110 pounds (male), 75-95 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Scottish Deerhound?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For giant dogs like the Scottish Deerhound, a typical vet bill runs $350 – $1,373 (median $607). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.