Breed History:

The American Staghound is a rare hunting sighthound developed in the United States for pursuing fast game across open terrain. The breed originated during the 19th century when hunters crossed various European sighthounds, particularly Scottish Deerhound and Greyhound lines, to create a powerful, fast, and highly adaptable hunting dog.

American hunters needed a dog capable of chasing coyotes, wolves, jackrabbits, and deer over long distances in harsh climates and rugged landscapes. Unlike show breeds, the American Staghound was developed almost entirely for working ability, speed, stamina, and toughness rather than a strict appearance standard.

Even today, the breed is primarily maintained by hunters and working-dog enthusiasts rather than kennel clubs, making it relatively rare and variable in appearance.

If you want to learn about other sighthound breeds, check out our page "Different Sighthound Dog Breeds".

Size: Large

Life Expectancy: 10–14 years

Breed Appearance:

The American Staghound is a tall, lean, and athletic sighthound built for speed, endurance, and rough outdoor conditions.

Because the breed was developed for performance rather than appearance, physical traits may vary between lines.

Common features include:

• Deep chest and narrow waist

• Long powerful legs

• Lean muscular frame

• Narrow elongated head

• Semi-rose or folded ears

The coat may be:

• Smooth and short

• Rough or wiry

• Medium length depending on breeding lines

Coat colours vary widely and may include:

• Brindle

• Grey

• Black

• White

• Fawn

• Red

• Mixed patterns

The breed’s body structure reflects both speed and durability.

Breed Type – Hunting/Sighthound:

The American Staghound is an independent, athletic, and highly driven hunting breed developed for pursuing game by sight and speed.

It is known for being:

• Extremely fast and agile

• Courageous and determined

• Loyal to owners

• Quiet and calm indoors

• Independent in temperament

The breed usually forms close bonds with family but may be reserved around strangers.

Its strong prey drive remains deeply ingrained, especially toward small moving animals.

Training:

The American Staghound is intelligent but independent, requiring patient and consistent handling.

Training should focus on:

• Early socialisation

• Recall and leash training

• Positive reinforcement methods

• Impulse control

• Mental stimulation and structured activity

The breed performs well in:

• Lure coursing

• Hunting work

• Endurance running

• Canicross and athletic sports

Because of its sighthound instincts, reliable off-leash recall can be challenging.

Health & Care:

The American Staghound is generally healthy and durable due to its working-dog background, though some dogs may occasionally experience:

• Bloat (gastric torsion)

• Joint strain injuries

• Hip dysplasia

• Sensitivity to anaesthesia common in sighthounds

Routine veterinary care, balanced nutrition, and maintaining proper physical condition help support long-term health.

Its lean body and athletic nature benefit from regular conditioning.

Living Conditions:

The American Staghound is best suited to active homes with access to large secure outdoor spaces.

Ideal environments include:

• Rural properties

• Large fenced yards

• Active outdoor households

The breed is generally not ideal for apartment living unless exercise needs are fully met.

Secure fencing is important due to the breed’s strong prey drive and speed.

Exercise:

The American Staghound has high exercise requirements.

Recommended activities include:

• Running in secure areas

• Lure coursing

• Hiking and endurance walks

• Hunting or tracking activities

• Interactive play and athletic training

While active outdoors, the breed is often surprisingly relaxed indoors after sufficient exercise.

Grooming:

Grooming needs vary depending on coat type.

• Weekly brushing is usually sufficient

• Rough-coated dogs may require additional grooming

• Occasional bathing as needed

• Routine nail trimming and ear cleaning

• Regular dental care

The breed generally sheds lightly to moderately.

Advantages:

• Extremely fast and athletic

• Excellent endurance and hunting ability

• Loyal and calm with family

• Hardy and adaptable working dog

• Generally low-maintenance grooming

• Quiet indoors after exercise

Disadvantages:

• Very strong prey drive

• Requires extensive exercise and secure fencing

• Independent nature can challenge training

• Not ideal for small pets

• Rare breed with limited availability

• Needs experienced and active ownership