Deerhound
Key facts
| FCI group | 10. Sighthounds |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | United Kingdom |
| Weight | 36.5–45.5 kg |
Recognition features
- Resembles a rough-coated greyhound of larger size and bone
- Harsh, wiry coat about 8 to 10 cm long, softer on head, breast and belly, with moustache and some beard
- Small, soft ears folded back in repose, black nose and eye rims, long tail reaching almost to the ground
Purpose
A racing dog, hunting dog (red deer) and companion.
History
The Deerhound's origins are shrouded in mystery, but there are grounds to think it may have been introduced to Scotland by Phoenician traders, and running hounds were certainly there when the Romans arrived. The breed has hunted the red deer for a thousand years and, although today more at home in the show ring, has remained similar in type over the centuries.
Coat
Shaggy but not over-coated; thick, close-lying, ragged, harsh or crisp to the touch; a woolly coat is highly undesirable. Colours: dark blue-grey, darker and lighter greys or brindles, yellows, sandy-red or red fawns with black points; a white chest, white toes and a slight white tip to the stern are permissible, a white blaze or collar is not.
Similar breeds
Learn to recognise this breed and many more
In the Dogtice quiz you practise breeds on photos and see the differences between look-alike breeds.
The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard. Report a photo or rights.