Great Scott! A New Breed Is on Top Thanks to Westminster!

Introducing Hickory, the 135th Best in Show winner at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show and arguably the most famous Scottish Deerhound in the world.
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Introducing Hickory, the 135th Best in Show winner at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show and arguably the most famous Scottish Deerhound in the world. Hickory has won over the hearts of Americans after beating out 2,500 other eager canine contestants.

Foxcliffe Hickory Wind (better known as Hickory) is five years old, which, in the dog show world, makes her no spring chicken, but as an impressive and fierce competitor, Hickory proved that age is nothing but a number. And with age comes Grace. As the name implies, the Scottish Deerhound hails from Scotland! If you're not familiar with the breed, imagine a greyhound wearing a wiry furry coat. We have the inside scoop on the Scottish Deerhound and what you can expect from this blue ribbon breed.

Hickory is Virginia-bred and struts like a queen with the help of her handler Angela Lloyd. The American Kennel Club describes the breed as "quiet and dignified." They are known for their gentle temperament, friendly demeanor and eagerness to please. Scottish Deerhounds are always docile, as long as they get enough exercise. Exercise is the most important word for this breed. Lots of stimulation, running, chasing is exactly what this breed needs. They can be perfect running partner! (They won't back out and you will never hear them complaining about running!) Scottish Deerhounds were bred to hunt so don't be surprised if your Deerhound is intent on squirrel chasing!

This is the first time a Scottish Deerhound has won Westminster which is certain to spike the demand for Scottish Deerhounds across the country.

If you're thinking about adding this four-legged friend to your family, think animal rescue first. One of the largest online pet adoption agencies in the U.S., Petfinder.com, currently has 11 Scottish Deerhound purebreds and mixes up for adoption. Sadly, not too many are up for adoption because this is such an amazing and rare breed. There is also a Scottish Deerhound Club of America which has a rescue and placement program assisting those who can no longer care for their Scotts and for those interested in rescuing one in need of a loving home.

If you cannot rescue a Scottish Deerhound, you can get a much similar breed such as an Afghan Hound, Greyhound, or an Irish Wolfhound, all of which can be adopted from Petfinder.com or found by contacting your local animal rescue.

What's next for Hickory? She's off on a whirlwind media tour, as any star would be. Having already been featured on CBS's Early Show, Hickory will go on to visit the observation deck at the Empire State Building, be served steak on a silver platter at Sardis and mingle and inspire the children at the Ronald McDonald House. That's the life of a star for you! But don't worry, she plans on retiring this year.

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