The origin of the breed is of such antiquity, and the earliest descriptive names so mixed that it is unclear as to whether the Deerhound was at one time identical with the ancient Irish Wolfdog. We can definitely identify the breed as Deerhounds as early as the 16th and 17th centuries. Since then, the name Deerhound has been applied to the breed, which of all dogs has been found best suited for the pursuit and killing of deer.

It is a well-established fact that the Scottish Deerhound of today closely conforms to authentic records of the 18th and 19th centuries in type, size and character. In character he is quiet, dignified, keen and alert, although not aggressive, has great persistence and indomitable courage.