Physical Characteristics

Breed Group:

Hound/Scenthound.

Weight:

Approximately 35-55 kg (80-120 lbs).

Height:

The Otterhound stands approximately 65-70 cm (or around 27 inches.)

Color(s):

Their coat is a combination of reddish-brown over the head, body and legs and black over the back.

Coat:

Their outer coat is dense and rough with a broken appearance and they have softer hair over their head and legs.

Overview

Character:

The Otterhound is a large, friendly dog. They are usually fairly calm but tend to be quite independent. While they are affectionate they don’t need too much attention and because they are independent might not be as loving as some other breeds. Be careful when introducing unfamiliar dogs or pets – Otterhounds tend to get along with other pets quite well but are somewhat tentative to start.

Country of Origin:

England

History:

Despite references to Otterhound as far back as the 1100s, the current form of the breed doesn’t seem to have appeared until the late 1700s. Originally they bred to hunt river otter in order to prevent the otters from spoiling food sources. Their ancestry can be traced back to Bloodhounds and several varieties of French hound breeds.

Otter hunting was especially popular just before World War I when otters were abundant. Since the late 1950s however, the otter hunt in England has been band and pure bred Otterhounds are very rare. Today’s variety of otterhound is the result of significant cross-breeding in order to improve their hunting abilities.

Sadly, today there are only around 1000 Otterhounds in the world and as such are considered an endangered breed.

Name:

They were named Otterhound because of their involvement in otter hunts.

Temperament:

They are calm and sociable but tend to be independent.

Care

Training:

As they are quite stubborn, training an Otterhound requires patience. They are also large and strong so training is especially important. Training when they are pups is easiest and highly recommended. With steady, consistent training they will learn to be obedient. As scent hounds, they are very curious and will follow their nose, sometimes getting into mischief.

Activity:

Because they are independent, they will quite happily engage themselves so if you have a large yard, let them out regularly for exercise. Without proper training, they can be difficult to walk as they are very curious about smells. Still, once trained, they make excellent companions for a walk or run. Because of their large size, they don’t need quite as much exercise as most dogs.

Ownership:

These dogs are not the most loving or affectionate so might not make an ideal pet if you’re looking for a cuddly dog. They are loyal and friendly however and will get along with familiar pets. They are large and puppies might be a bit too rough for children.

Breeders

List of dog breeds