How the Highlands Shaped the Hound!

Well, as you know, we keep a little paw on the history of the Deerhound here, wi' my master being a Brodie and his family going away back into the mists of Pictland, and coming from, not a bones throw away from Brodie castle myself . . . I thought it would be fun to show a little example of how us Deerhounds come to be looking like we do.

You see, its all to do with the terrain, the climate, and the nature. As an example if we look at the simple cow and see the two breeds in the images - In the past and indeed today, a cow common to England would more likely be smooth coated, where as the cow living out in the wilds o’ the Misty Highlands would have a hide to suit its environment.

Here’s some details about the Hei’land Coo . . .

Habitat would be the wind swept, rain-soaked Highlands of Scotland
Food would consist of grasses and brush
Weight comes in at approximately 750-1200 pounds
Here are some Fun Facts: Scottish Highland Cattle are the oldest known cattle breed probably indicating that the southerly relatives lost there rough coats due to the climate. Despite their long horns, they are gentle and easily handled. Their long bangs (dossan) protect the eyes and shorter legs mean fewer foot and leg problems. They are known for their gentle disposition, hardiness in adverse weather conditions and strong resistance to disease. They are able to adapt to a variety of climates including harsh, cold climates where other cattle breeds might not survive. Their life span is about 25 years.

Appart from life span, and the short legs, and the food, and the weight there are a few Scottish Highland similarities shared between the Highland Coos and Highland Hounds - jings, even the terriers from Scotland are scruffy, wee, ruff coated rogues that fit right into the family.
Again, the climates in the South or among the Angles n Saxons and Romans was much more hospitable and definately warmer as it even still is today, where the deerhunting hounds were much more likely to have been the English Greyhound. Although probably doing the same Job as us Deerhounds, but I'm sure, not with such dash and highland grace.

Compare the pics - dogs and coos and judge for yerself. Click the pics for a closer look.