Scottish deer hounds are a very old breed, used by lairds and clan members for hunting and protecting WAY back in the day. They are very protective of their "pack" whatever or whoever they are. They are capable of keeping up with a full grown male deer in flight mode, which is no small feat. Their coat looks "scruffy" because it is multi-toned and allows the dog to move through heavy, thorny underbrush without getting hung up in it. They are very loving and sweet, but don't mess with their family!I love it when a breen that has competed for many years finally wins the big dance! Or one of them anyway, there are many wonderful dog shows around the world, I wish we could see how things are done in other countries.