Otterhound
Size
Giant
Life Expectancy
10-13 years
Trainability
★★★★☆
Energy
★★★☆☆
About the Otterhound
The Otterhound is a large, rugged breed known for its distinctive rough coat and webbed feet, which make it an excellent swimmer. They typically weigh between 65 to 115 pounds and stand about 24 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder. Otterhounds possess a strong, athletic build with a broad head, long ears, and a hearty neck. Their coat is dense and water-resistant, featuring a mix of wiry and soft textures. This breed is generally friendly, affectionate, and sociable, making them good family pets. They are also known for their strong hunting instincts, particularly when it comes to tracking and retrieving otters. Otterhounds are intelligent and independent, requiring consistent training and socialization from an early age to thrive in a home environment. They have a playful nature and enjoy being active, making them well-suited for families who can provide ample exercise and stimulation.
History
The Otterhound is an ancient breed that originated in England, dating back to the 13th century. It was developed primarily for hunting otters in the rivers and waterways of the British Isles. The breed is believed to be a mix of various hound types, including Bloodhounds and rough-coated hounds, which contributed to their keen sense of smell and excellent swimming capabilities. Otterhounds were highly valued by fishermen and landowners as they helped control the otter population, which was known to prey on fish stocks. The breed's popularity peaked in the 19th century, with organized hunting events and the establishment of breed clubs. However, the decline of otter hunting in the 20th century led to a decrease in the breed's numbers. Despite being classified as a rare breed, Otterhounds have retained their loyal following among enthusiasts and continue to be cherished for their unique traits and history as a versatile hunting dog.
Temperament
- friendly
- affectionate
- independent
- intelligent
- playful
Breed Characteristics
Detailed Traits
Otterhounds are good with children
Generally friendly with other dogs
Highly trainable
Moderately energetic breed
Frequent barking tendency
Light shedding
Low grooming requirements
Otterhound Care Guide
Daily Care
- Brush the coat at least once a week to prevent matting and remove loose hair.
- Regularly check and clean the ears to prevent ear infections.
- Ensure dental hygiene by brushing teeth several times a week.
- Provide a balanced diet appropriate for their age and health status.
- Monitor their weight to avoid obesity.
Exercise Needs
- Require at least 1 hour of exercise each day.
- Enjoy activities like swimming, running, and playing fetch.
- Daily walks are essential to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
- Engage in scent work or tracking activities to stimulate their natural instincts.
Health Considerations
- Prone to certain genetic conditions like hip dysplasia and ear infections.
- Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor for health issues.
- May experience skin allergies; watch for signs of itching or irritation.
- Be aware of their potential for obesity; maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the temperament of the Otterhound?
The Otterhound is known for being friendly, affectionate, and social. They are generally good-natured and enjoy the company of people and other dogs.
Are Otterhounds good with children?
Yes, Otterhounds are typically good with children. Their playful and gentle nature makes them suitable companions for kids.
What are the care requirements for an Otterhound?
Otterhounds require regular exercise due to their energetic nature. They also need grooming several times a week to manage their dense, water-resistant coat.
Do Otterhounds have any specific health concerns?
Otterhounds can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, ear infections, and certain skin conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups are important.
What training challenges might I face with an Otterhound?
Otterhounds can be independent and may exhibit stubbornness, making training a challenge. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work best.
Are Otterhounds suitable as family pets?
Yes, Otterhounds can make excellent family pets due to their friendly demeanor and love for companionship. However, they do require plenty of space and regular activity.
Fun Facts About Otterhounds
The Otterhound is one of the oldest British dog breeds, with origins dating back to the 13th century, primarily bred for hunting otters in rivers and streams.
Otterhounds have a distinctive rough, water-resistant coat that consists of a dense undercoat and a longer outer coat, which helps them thrive in wet environments.
This breed is recognized for having the largest number of scent receptors among dog breeds, making them exceptional trackers with a keen sense of smell.
Otterhounds were once a part of the English nobility's hunting packs, and in 1978, they were featured in the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, showcasing their unique hunting skills and appearance.
Despite their hunting background, Otterhounds are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them great family pets who are good with children.
They have a unique 'talking' behavior, often vocalizing with a deep, melodious bark that is quite different from the typical dog bark, reflecting their expressive personality.
Otterhounds are known to have a playful and goofy demeanor, often engaging in antics that can entertain their families, showcasing their jovial spirit.
Due to their strong desire to chase and retrieve, Otterhounds require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and well-adjusted.
Diet and Nutrition
Otterhounds require a balanced diet rich in protein and healthy fats to support their energetic lifestyle. High-quality dog food formulated for large breeds is advisable. Always ensure fresh water is available.
Recommended Foods
- high-quality dry kibble
- canned wet food
- raw meat diets
- fish-based diets
- vegetable-based supplements
Foods to Avoid
- chocolate
- grapes
- onions
- garlic
- avocado
- alcohol
- caffeine
Special Considerations
Otterhounds may be prone to obesity, so portion control is essential. They may also have sensitivities to certain grains, so grain-free options could be beneficial.
Training Guide
Otterhounds are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement methods. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel. Consistency and patience are key, along with short, engaging training sessions to keep their attention.
Advanced Techniques
- Scent work training to utilize their strong olfactory capabilities
- Agility training to enhance physical and mental stimulation
- Advanced recall training in distracting environments
Common Challenges
- Stubbornness or independence which may lead to selective listening
- High energy levels requiring ample exercise to prevent boredom
- Distractibility due to their strong prey drive and curiosity
Grooming Guide
The Otterhound has a dense, wiry coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and to maintain its water-resistant properties. Regular grooming helps to keep the coat clean and healthy, while also managing shedding.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Step 1: Brush the coat thoroughly using a slicker brush to remove loose hair and prevent tangles.
- Step 2: Use a comb to detangle any knots, focusing on areas behind the ears and under the legs.
- Step 3: Trim any excess hair around the paws and face to maintain a neat appearance.
- Step 4: Bathe the dog with a mild dog shampoo as needed, usually every few months or if they get particularly dirty.
- Step 5: Dry the coat with a towel and, if necessary, use a blow dryer on a low setting to avoid discomfort.
- Step 6: Clean the ears regularly to prevent infections, checking for wax buildup or debris.
- Step 7: Brush the teeth regularly to maintain dental hygiene.
Required Tools
- Slicker brush
- Comb
- Scissors or clippers
- Dog shampoo
- Towels
- Blow dryer (optional)
- Ear cleaner