Scottish Deerhounds are a unique and majestic breed that has been around for centuries. They were originally bred in Scotland to hunt deer and other game, but over time, they have become popular family pets. If you are considering bringing a Scottish Deerhound into your home, it is important to weigh the pros and cons to ensure that it is the right breed for you and your family.
Pros of Scottish Deerhounds as Family Pets:
1. Gentle and Calm Nature: Scottish Deerhounds are known for their gentle and calm nature, making them excellent family pets. They are patient with children and are unlikely to become aggressive or destructive. They are a great choice for families with children of all ages.
2. Loyal and Affectionate: Scottish Deerhounds are incredibly loyal and affectionate to their owners. They bond strongly with their family members and enjoy spending time with them. They are known for their gentle and loving nature, and they are always eager to please their owners.
3. Low Maintenance: Scottish Deerhounds have a short, wiry coat that is easy to maintain. They require minimal grooming and do not shed excessively, making them a good choice for families with allergies. They also do not require a lot of exercises, making them a great choice for families with busy schedules.
4. Good Watchdogs: Despite their gentle nature, Scottish Deerhounds are excellent watchdogs. They are alert and will bark to alert their owners of any potential danger. They are not aggressive, but their size alone can be a deterrent to intruders.
5. Adaptable: Scottish Deerhounds are adaptable to different living environments. They are equally happy in a large house with a big yard or a small apartment with limited space. They are also adaptable to different climates and do well in both hot and cold weather.
Cons of Scottish Deerhounds as Family Pets:
1. Size: Scottish Deerhounds are a large breed, standing up to 32 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing up to 110 pounds. Their size can be intimidating to some people, especially young children or those who are not used to being around large dogs.
2. Health Issues: Scottish Deerhounds are prone to certain health issues, including bloat, hip dysplasia, and heart problems. Potential owners should be aware of these health issues and be prepared to provide proper care and treatment if needed.
3. Training: Scottish Deerhounds can be stubborn and independent, making them difficult to train. They require a patient and consistent approach to training, and they may not respond well to harsh or punitive methods.
4. Prey Drive: Scottish Deerhounds were originally bred to hunt, and they have a strong prey drive. They may chase after small animals, such as cats or squirrels, and may not be a good fit for households with other small pets.
5. Expense: Scottish Deerhounds can be expensive to purchase from a reputable breeder. They also require a significant amount of food and veterinary care due to their size, which can be costly.
Conclusion:
Overall, Scottish Deerhounds make excellent family pets for the right household. They are gentle, loyal, and low-maintenance dogs that are good with children and adaptable to different living environments. However, potential owners should be aware of their size, health issues, training needs, prey drive, and expense before bringing one home. If you have the time, patience, and resources to care for a Scottish Deerhound, they can make a wonderful addition to your family.
