The Otterhound is a large, lively dog known for its strong, sturdy body that is a bit longer than it is tall. It has a distinctive shaggy double coat made up of a tough, rough outer layer and a soft, oily undercoat, which helps it thrive in water, no matter the weather conditions. With its big paws and broad snout, this breed is skilled at tracking and can navigate various types of land with ease.
Quick Info
Size
Large
Colours
Grizzle, sandy, red, wheaten, blue, white, liver, black and tan, blue and tan, black and cream, tan and liver, tan and white
Lifespan
10 to 13 years
Height
24 to 27 inches
Type
Scenthound
Hypoallergenic
no
Weight
80 to 120 pounds
Family
Personality
Otterhounds are friendly, laid-back, and loving pets. They often show a lot of energy and have a playful side. This breed is social and tends to get along well with both their family and other dogs, as they were bred to hunt in groups. Like many hounds, they are devoted but can be a bit headstrong and may ignore commands when they catch a scent. At home, they are gentle and affectionate, relishing the company of people.
History
Otterhounds were first developed to catch otters and guard fish in ponds. The earliest mention of them goes back to the 12th century during the reign of Henry II. Their impressive size and dignified look made them popular among royalty. King Edward II and Queen Elizabeth I were recognized as the first leaders of Otterhounds. The first Otterhound arrived in the United States in the early 1900s, and they are still quite uncommon today.
Ideal Owner
The perfect owner for an Otterhound enjoys being around water and is okay with the potential mess that comes from having a water-loving dog. They need to be patient and recognize the natural hunting instincts of the Otterhound. It’s best if these owners live in the countryside and have a spacious yard near a lake or river, giving the dog plenty of opportunities to swim and play.
Exercise Needs
Otterhound puppies should be exercised with care to prevent them from overdoing it and getting hurt. They are lively and love to be active, but they like to use their energy by following smells and swimming rather than engaging in typical activities for fun.
Space Requirements
Otterhounds require plenty of room to shake off after they swim. It's important to have a safe yard with a fence that stands at least 6 feet high to prevent them from jumping over. This type of dog does not do well in urban environments.
Training
The Otterhound, known for its sensitivity, learns best through positive training methods that focus on rewards, particularly food, since they are very motivated by treats. They enjoy receiving praise, which can greatly enhance their training experience. Similar to other hound breeds, they may have difficulty following commands or returning when they are distracted by scents; any interesting smell they encounter will often take precedence over their owner's requests.
Grooming
It’s best not to give Otterhounds baths because soaps and shampoos can strip away the essential oils in their water-resistant fur, which may cause skin irritation and itching. They should be brushed a few times each week. Additionally, owners ought to inspect their fur and paws for any dirt or debris that might cling to them during walks or swims.
Suitability for Family Life
Otterhounds can be wonderful companions for the right households. It's important for their owners to be energetic and love spending time outside, regardless of the weather. Because Otterhounds are big and somewhat awkward, they are most suitable for families with older kids.
Did You know?
The Otterhound, one of the oldest dog breeds in England, is currently facing extinction and is considered to be more scarce than the Giant Panda. Over the past five years, fewer than 50 new puppies have been registered each year. These dogs dive with their noses fully underwater, creating bubbles as they do so.
