Otterhound
Description
The Otterhound is a large, rugged hound breed originally developed in England for hunting otters. It is one of the few breeds specialized in this type of game, and its keen sense of smell and excellent swimming abilities made it an effective hunter. The Otterhound has a distinctive appearance, characterized by a shaggy, water-resistant double coat that helps it in aquatic environments. The breed is known for its resilience, adaptability, and historical significance in working alongside fishermen and watermen.
Personality
Otterhounds are known for their friendly and sociable nature. They tend to be good-natured, gentle, and affectionate with their families. These dogs are often described as playful and curious, displaying a sense of humor that endears them to their owners. While they can be independent thinkers, they are also eager to please, making training relatively manageable with consistent and positive reinforcement methods. They are usually good with children and can get along well with other dogs, though their strong prey drive may lead them to chase smaller animals.
Care Requirements
Otterhounds require regular exercise to keep them physically fit and mentally stimulated. Daily walks, playtime, and opportunities to swim are ideal for this active breed. Their double coat needs regular grooming to prevent matting and to reduce shedding, with a thorough brushing at least once a week. Otterhounds are generally healthy but can be prone to certain genetic conditions, so regular veterinary check-ups are essential. Additionally, they thrive in homes with ample space, preferably with access to a secure yard where they can roam and explore. Socialization is crucial in their early life to ensure they develop into well-rounded adults.
Suitable For:
- Families with older children (due to moderate compatibility)
- Households with other pets (as long as they are properly socialized)
- Individuals or families who are able to dedicate time to training
- Those who are comfortable with or can accommodate frequent barking
- People who appreciate a dog breed with a balance of playfulness and calmness
- NOT
Not Suitable For:
- Families with very young children (due to moderate compatibility)
- Households seeking a very high-energy pet
- Those looking for a dog with strong protective instincts
- Individuals who desire a quiet pet or live in noise-sensitive areas
- People who are unable or unwilling to invest time in training.
Physical Characteristics
The Otterhound is a large and powerful breed, typically weighing between 65 to 115 pounds. Males are generally larger than females, with a height ranging from 24 to 27 inches at the shoulder. They have a distinctive long, narrow head, prominent eyebrows, and large, droopy ears. Their body is sturdy and muscular, with a deep chest and strong legs designed for endurance. The coat is medium to long, shaggy, and water-resistant, typically found in various shades of grizzled, brown, or tan, often with markings.
Height
Male: 27" - 27"
Female: 27" - 27"
Weight
Male: 115 - 115 lbs
Female: 80 - 80 lbs
Life Expectancy
10 - 13 years
Breed Profile
Breed Characteristics
Maintenance Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Fun Facts
The Otterhound is a breed with an intriguing history dating back to 12th century England. Originally bred for hunting otters, which were causing damage to the fish ponds of local fishermen, this breed is a mix of Bloodhounds and Terriers, combining the tracking skills of the former with the determination of the latter.
Despite its large size, with a height of 27 inches and weighing up to 115 pounds, the Otterhound is known for its agility and endurance. Its webbed feet, a unique trait among dog breeds, make it an excellent swimmer - a feature that was crucial for its original function of hunting otters.
Otterhounds are characterized by their shaggy double coat and large droopy ears, giving them a distinctive and charming appearance. Their coat, which can be any color or combination of colors, is dense and rough to the touch, effectively repelling water and protecting the dog from cold weather.
Despite their hunting origins, Otterhounds are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They are particularly good with children and display an impressive level of patience, which makes them an excellent choice for a family pet. However, their keen sense of smell can sometimes lead them astray, as they have been known to follow a scent for miles if not properly supervised.
The Otterhound is a rare breed today, with only about 600 purebred specimens left in the world, making them more scarce than the Giant Panda. This steep decline in their population is largely due to the ban on otter hunting in the UK in the late 20th century, which removed their original purpose and resulted in fewer breedings.