Origin
United Kingdom
Lifespan
10–13 years
Weight
36–52 kg
Height
61–69 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Grizzle · Sandy · Wheaten · Blue and White
Otterhound
About This Breed
The Otterhound is a large, rough-coated British scenthound originally bred for hunting otters. One of the rarest breeds in the world, they have webbed feet for swimming and a keen sense of smell.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Otterhound
Origin
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| Group | Hounds |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 36–52 kg |
| Lifespan | 10–13 years |
| Height | 61–69 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | Grizzle · Sandy · Wheaten · Blue and White |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Friendly · Boisterous · Even-tempered · Amiable |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Coat care can take more time. Check for tangles and choose a brushing routine that suits the coat.
Can shed a lot. Regular brushing can help manage loose hair.
Living together
A familiar routine can help it settle in.
Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.
Often gets along with other pets. Introduce them gradually rather than assuming they will be friends.
Training and activities
Practice in short sessions and reward the behavior you want.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
The Otterhound is an energetic and loving dog originally bred for hunting otters. As such, these powerful dogs can swim a long distance to capture their prey. They also have long and shaggy waterproof fur and webbing between their toes that helps them swim with ease. An Otterhound’s size falls between 24 and 27 inches, and the dogs weigh 80–115 pounds. Caring for an Otterhound Otterhounds have a kind temperament, which makes them a great family dog. However, due to their boisterous nature, Otterhound dogs need training so they learn not to jump up and accidentally knock people over—including small children.
Care Guide
Otterhounds have a kind temperament, which makes them a great family dog. However, due to their boisterous nature, Otterhound dogs need training so they learn not to jump up and accidentally knock people over—including small children. During training sessions, Otterhound puppies are eager to please and learn quickly when given high-reward dog treats. Brushing is needed twice weekly to prevent this longhaired dog’s fur from matting and to remove any debris in their hair.