About SDCA
Charter & Officers
Membership
The Claymore Magazine
Rescue & Placement
Club Sales

Judges Education
Specialties
    2008 National Specialty
2008 Supported Entries


So You Think You
Want a Deerhound?
Introduction
Breed Standard
History of the Breed
Choosing A Breeder
Breeder Referral
Guidelines for Ownership
Grooming
Coursing
Obedience
Photos
Health Issues
Reading List

Resources
Deerhound-L Chat List
Useful Links
Forms
Contact Us

There are basic owner principles that the membership of the Scottish Deerhound Club of America hold important to the future and well-being of the breed. These principles can be divided into three general areas:

1. As an owner of Scottish Deerhounds and a member of the SDCA:
   • owners are urged to be knowledgeable of and uphold the breed standard
   • owners should always display good sportsmanship at events where they represent the breed and the SDCA
   • owners are responsible for the safety, health, control, and behavior of their dogs

2. As a breeder of Scottish Deerhounds:
   • breeders are urged to breed only dogs and bitches that are in good health and of such maturity (yet not past their prime) to demonstrate a degree of freedom from genetic defects
   • breeders are urged to test for health defects, where possible
   • breeders should accept the responsibility and commitment necessary for insure the welfare of every dog he/she breeds for the life of the dog
   • breeders are urged to maintain pedigrees and to breed only those animals that display the characteristics set in the breed standard
   • breeders are encouraged to clearly and fully document all transactions and agreements involved in the breeding of Deerhounds

3. As a seller of Scottish Deerhounds:
   • sellers are urged to sell Deerhounds only to private individuals who display their ability to care for and maintain the dog throughout its life
   • sellers are urged not to separate the puppy from its litter or transfer ownership until the puppy is at least nine or ten weeks old, vaccinated, and demonstrates he/she is developmentally ready and healthy
   • sellers are urged to inform new owners about positive identification procedures such as the tattoo and microchip
   • sellers are urged to fully disclose known information pertaining to the dog's history. The information provided to the buyer should include:
     • A written agreement/contract transferring ownership of the dog to the buyer inclusive of a clause for the return of the dog to the breeder or placement of the dog with breeder approval should the buyer be unable for any reason to keep the dog
     • AKC registration forms
     • A spay/neuter agreement for Deerhounds sold as companions along with limited registration
     • A minimum of a three generation pedigree
     • A complete medical history
     • Written instructions for the proper care, feeding, grooming, exercise, and general treatment of the dog
   • sellers should maintain a record of the sale and should periodically follow up on the buyer and the dog's development