Otterhound: Breed Personality, Fitness & Care

Group: Hound Dogs.

AKC Ranking: 152

About Otterhound

Origin of the Breed The Otterhound is a rather old breed obtained from crossing among the Bloodhound with rough-haired Terriers, Griffons and Harriers. Description of the Dog The Otterhound is a large rough-coated dog with a shaggy face and bushy eyebrows. The head underneath the hair is large and deep, but wide. The neck is muscular, with an abundant dewlap. The eyes are dark with rosy conjunctiva. The ears are long and dangling and the tail curves up like a saber. The nose is large and dark, either black or liver depending on the color of the dog. The lips are thick and pendant.

Like many other pack hounds, the feet are webbed for swimming.

Coat

Under the 3-6 inch (8-16 cm.) long, oily outer coat is a dense, wooly undercoat for protection in frigid water. The coat usually comes in grizzle or wheaten with black markings.

Height: 24-26 inches (60-65 cm.)

Weight: 66-115 pounds (30-52 kg.)

Temperament

The Otterhound is a bold, friendly, low-key, cheerful, affectionate, intelligent, independent, loving, protective, devoted and exuberant dog that makes a good, quiet companion. This breed is quite good with children and other animals, but may be clumsy with small children. They like to roam and sniff and have a tendency to snore.

Otterhound have a harmonious, boisterous and powerful voice that carries for long distances. It likes to bay, grumble, sigh and give pleasure groans; though he doesn't bark excessively.

Living Conditions

The Otterhound is not recommended for apartment life as its lots of exercise. They are relatively inactive indoors if they have sufficient exercise. They do best with at least a large, well-fenced yard. It can sleep outdoors in temperate or cool climates if given a good shelter.

Exercise & Training

The Otterhound needs a lot of daily exercise in a safe area or on a leash, and if possible, frequent swimming. They need to be taken on a daily walk, swim or jog. It is not among the most responsive of breeds. Training the Otterhound takes patience, because it tends to be quite willful. The best results are achieved with a soft but consistent hand. Use the classic "Iron fist in a velvet glove" approach when training this dog.

Grooming

To avoid matting, the Otterhound's weather-resistant coat should be combed or brushed at least weekly, but not clipped. It may need its beard washed more frequently. This breed is an average shedder.

Health Issues

Some lines are prone to hip dysplasia, thrombocytopenia, hemophilia and bloat. Elbow dysplasia may be a minor problem. It tends to gain weight easily.

Life Expectancy: 10-12 years