How much does a Scottish Deerhound puppy cost?

Scottish Deerhound puppies sit in the $1,500 to $4,000 range because responsible breeding is expensive and logistically tough. These dogs are rare—ranked 158 out of 197 by the AKC—which means limited supply, but demand from people drawn to their gentle giant persona keeps prices steady. Breeding them isn't simple. Litters are small, often just 2 to 4 puppies, and whelping can be high-risk due to their size. Reputable breeders invest heavily in health testing, screening for dilated cardiomyopathy, Factor VII deficiency, osteosarcoma risks, and bloat predisposition, all of which add up. A single echocardiogram or genetic panel can cost hundreds, and ethical breeders test both parents before breeding. Puppies from untested lines or priced well below $1,500 should raise red flags—they may come from backyard breeders skipping these critical health checks, increasing the odds you’ll face a $10,000 vet bill down the road for preventable conditions. You’re not just paying for the puppy, you’re paying for years of careful line management, vet work, and the reality that many Deerhound breeders operate at a loss, driven by passion more than profit. That $2,500 average reflects real costs, not markup.