Scottish Deerhound is a large breed with an extremely friendly nature that needs considerable exercise to develop properly and to maintain its health. That does not mean it needs a large house to live in. They should have regular access to free running, in a fenced area, and should not be raised with access only to leash walking or a small yard.

Young Deerhounds can be quite destructive if not given sufficient exercise, however, the average adult Deerhound (two to three years old) may spend much of the day stretched out on the floor or a couch, sleeping. They do require a stimulus and a large area, to exercise properly and frequently. They are gentle and docile indoors and are generally good around company and children.

Outdoors, with room to run, they can be extremely active. They have a long powerful gait and can be extremely fast over a given piece of ground. Care must be taken to give them freedom to run in places where they are safely fenced away from traffic and other dangers. They can be tireless runners and enthusiastic hunters, and can quickly run far from safety.

Barring major medical emergencies, a considerable number of Deerhounds can be expected to live to approximately 11 years of age