Scottish Arrows Kennel is a home-based deerhound kennel, officially registered with the FCI in Poland (Związek Kynologiczny w Polsce - ZKwP). It is run with passion, responsibility, and a strong commitment to the welfare of the dogs. The kennel was founded out of a love for this exceptional and rare breed and, from the very beginning, has been based on conscious selection, a true home environment, and close cooperation with experienced breeders and specialists. Scottish Arrows is a place where the health, balanced temperament, and harmonious development of every hound are the highest priorities.
KENNEL NAME CERTIFICATEWhen I brought my first Deerhound female home in May 2020, I had no exhibition plans, let alone breeding ambitions. Aria was meant to be simply a companion dog, and in that role she proved, and continues to prove, absolutely perfect.
After some time, friends encouraged me to show Aria at dog shows. At that point, Deerhounds were still very rare in Poland, and the presence of a Deerhound in show statistics was valuable for show organizers.
Aria therefore made her debut in the show rings, earning excellent grades and champion titles. At the same time, during walks with other dogs, I noticed that Aria had very specific, typically sighthound ideas for play, often not entirely understood by dogs of other breeds. I sought advice from people more experienced with the breed and with sighthounds in general, and everyone came to the same conclusion: the best companion for a Deerhound is… another Deerhound.
I therefore decided to look for another Deerhound puppy, this time a male. I knew I wanted to show him, so I searched with this goal in mind. Encouraged by experienced breeders, I also looked for lines that could potentially allow the dog to be used in breeding in the future.
A year later, Elton joined our family. I imported him from the German, home-based Pinehurst kennel. The breeder was aware of my show plans and advised me on choosing the right puppy. From the very beginning, Elton charmed me with his stable, calm, and friendly temperament. He adapted effortlessly to his new home and became an ideal companion not only for Aria, but for all members of the household.
Both his conformation and his character have been repeatedly appreciated in show rings in Poland and abroad (more in the Achievements section). Convinced that Elton’s genes were worth passing on, I decided on the first litter in the kennel: the L litter.
While raising the puppies from my first litter, I placed great emphasis on proper socialization. From birth, the puppies lived with us in the house, so they were familiar with everyday household sounds and had constant contact with people. After completing the required vaccinations, I gradually introduced them to the world beyond our home and garden. As a result, the puppies grew into stable, confident dogs who adapted easily to their new families.
From the first litter, I kept a female puppy, Nessie, whom I can proudly say is not only beautiful, but above all well-socialized, friendly, and well-balanced. These are exactly the kind of dogs I wish to breed in the future.
As my experience with the breed and breeding spans only a few years, I remain in close contact with more experienced, long-time breeders, benefiting from their knowledge and support. I do not plan large-scale breeding. My priority is that all my dogs live with me in the home and enjoy close contact with people. I also ensure that each of my dogs receives proper veterinary care, a well-balanced diet, and regular walks where they can enjoy free movement and meaningful social interactions with familiar dogs.
Although there are no mandatory health tests for the breed in Poland, before breeding I had the future parents undergo cardiac examinations and genetic testing for Factor VII deficiency. In addition, all puppies were tested to rule out PSS (portosystemic shunt). At the request of some puppy buyers, tests for DEPOH (delayed postoperative haemorrhage) were also performed.
I stay in contact with the new families of puppies from my kennel, sharing both the joys and the concerns that come with raising young Deerhounds. I am always happy to offer advice and share my own experience, and when needed, I consult veterinarians and more experienced breeders. It brings me great joy to see Scottish Arrows puppies grow into wonderful dogs and bring their owners as much happiness as my dogs bring to me.
If you are wondering whether a Deerhound is the right dog for you, I invite you to join us for a walk with my hounds. The best way to understand the energy of these exceptional dogs is to experience it firsthand and see whether this is a breed with whom you would like to share both your time and your sofa.
