American Staghound

The American Staghound is a type of sighthound that is used in hunting to chase a variety of game. Although they have been bred for many years, the Staghound is not currently recognized as a dog breed, nor is there interest in doing so. Their ability to course hare and/or coyotes is all that matters to their owners.

Appearance

Unmistakably a sighthound, typically Greyhound in appearance, but with much more rugged feet, thicker skin, and more coat. They have excellent eyesight and some will use their scenting ability to wind (detect scent in the air) game. They have three recognized coat types, the shag, broken, and slick. Some are known to approach the speed of a track Greyhound (hot blood), but all have greater endurance and durability.

They range in height from 24 to 30 inches (61-77 cm) at the withers and weigh between 45 and 100 lbs (20-45 kg). The females are slightly smaller in size than the males.

Health

Some are known to experience torsion bloat if exercised shortly after eating due to their sighthound heritage, but carry no other genetic health problems. Typical life span is 12-14 years.

Temperament

Staghounds are very calm and affectionate, making wonderful companion dogs in addition to their tracking abilities. Because of their sighthound heritage, they make poor guard dogs as they are seldom territorial. Ones that will bark at strangers can make good watch dogs, owing to their great eyesight. Most have a high prey drive and may consider any smaller animal running away from them to be quarry, even if buddies in the house.

They require little exercise as they are happy just laying around the house, and so are suitable for apartment living. Even without exercise, they will be very fast. Fast enough to get into traffic or catch someone's small pet before you know it. They need to be kept leashed in public, unless in a secure area. Without being properly worked, they will not come close to approaching their coursing potential. they are also very aggressive towards all living creature no matter what.

History

The current American Staghound is a result of unknown breeding between Scottish Deerhound, Greyhound and several other breeds. The staghound appeared with its current characteristics in the 1800s. They were originally bred to hunt predators such as the wolf and coyote. General George Custer used a staghound in 1846 as part of his hunting pack. They were also used for hunting by Theodore Roosevelt and Ernest Thompson Seton.