IS THE Otterhound RIGHT FOR YOU?
- 1Otterhounds are an impressive physical specimen, built to impress on land or in water.
- 2Otterhound dogs are scent hounds, capable of picking up any smell, and their webbed feet make them great swimmers.
- 3These dogs like to be challenged through work or exercise and require attention.
HISTORY
The origin of the Otterhound cannot exactly be pinpointed, but they are well known for their association with the British royal family as well as their unmatched ability in the hunting of otters. Possibly a cross between the Bloodhound and a rough-haired terrier (i.e., Griffon or Harrier), the Otterhound has such an acute sense of smell that they can track the scent of an otter that is over 12 hours old. Now considered a rare breed, the Otterhound fell out of fashion once the sea otter was nearly hunted into endangerment.
Quick Facts
Size
Large
Lifespan
10 - 12 years
Hair Length
Long
Male Height
24 - 26 inches (60 - 65 cm.)
Male Weight
66 - 115 pounds (30 - 52 kg.)
Female Height
24 - 26 inches (60 - 65 cm.)
Female Weight
66 - 115 pounds (30 - 52 kg.)
Litter Size
5 - 8 puppies, average 6 puppies
Personality
Cheerful, brave, kind, and pleasant, the Otterhound is a magnificent family dog as well as a very capable hunting companion. They are a very intelligent breed, but they will not follow directions from someone whom they think they are smarter than. Otterhounds require a determined, stern hand when being trained, otherwise they may ignore your commands. Since they are a hunting breed, it is best not to leave them alone with smaller animals, although they can get along with cats if they grow up in a house with them. .
Color
Otterhounds can be found in black, brown, tan, sable, wheaten with black markings, or grizzle.
Health Concerns
The average life expectancy of an Otterhound is 10 to 15 years. Otterhounds are easily susceptible to ailments like:
- hip dysplasia
- hemophilia
- elbow dysplasia thrombocytopenia
- gastric torsion
- bleeding disorders
Appearance
Being a water dog, the Otterhound has webbed feet and an oily, water resistant coat. Their coat is long, dense and straight, with a rough outer coat and a soft undercoat. They have a large nose with wide nostrils and low hanging ears. They stand roughly 25 inches high and weigh somewhere in the neighborhood of 75 pounds.