A little look at life together.
Getting to know the Otterhound
The Otterhound is a large scent hound with a dense rough coat and a historic association with work in and around water. Their size and boisterousness need practical space, while the coat needs consistent brushing.
An everyday routine
Plan a daily mix of walks, play, and rest. The amount that works for a particular dog depends on age, fitness, experience, and temperament.
Coat care to plan for
Set aside time each week for coat care, checking through the hair rather than only brushing the surface. Shedding periods or longer furnishings may need extra attention.
Before deciding, meet the individual dog and ask about their history, handling preferences, and current routine. Breed tendencies are a starting point, not a promise about personality.
Otterhound questions
What were Otterhounds bred for?
Hunting otters. Packs of Otterhounds were kept in England to protect fish in rivers and stocked ponds, which is why the breed has webbed feet, a rough waterproof coat and a powerful nose. Otter hunting is no longer legal there, banned in 1978 in England and 1981 in Scotland.
How big does a full-grown Otterhound get?
Males stand about 27 inches tall and weigh about 115 pounds, and females stand about 24 inches and weigh about 80 pounds. Many of them still try to sit in your lap.
How rare are Otterhounds?
Very. There are fewer than 800 Otterhounds in the world, with the largest numbers in the United Kingdom and the United States. The breed is among the most endangered and is rarer than the giant panda.
Do Otterhounds shed?
Less than the shaggy coat suggests. Shedding is light, and brushing once or twice a week is enough, depending on the coat's length and texture. The beard drags on the ground and collects bits of food, so it needs attention more often than the coat.
Do Otterhounds bark a lot?
They are loud. Otterhounds are among the most vocal breeds, with a deep, melodious bay that carries a long way. Many also like to sing along with other dogs and people, so think about how close your neighbors are.
Are Otterhounds good family dogs?
Otterhounds are even-tempered, amiable and boisterous, a sociable hound that is deeply loyal to its family. They are bouncy dogs of a large size, so supervise play with young children. An Otterhound will announce visitors and then befriend them, so do not count on a guard dog.
How much exercise and space does an Otterhound need?
Otterhounds need mental as well as physical exercise, and a large, securely fenced yard is a good start. Long walks with time to sniff, plus tracking, obedience or agility, suit them well. They are safest in an enclosed area, because a hound on a scent can follow it into danger.
How long do Otterhounds live?
Otterhounds usually live 10 to 13 years. That is a breed-wide figure, not a prediction for one dog.
