Otterhound

Breed Overview

The Otterhound is a large scent hound typical of the British Isles, with a shaggy coat, long legs, and a deep-throated bay. It was bred to hunt otters, but it is now very rare, there being only an estimated 600 worldwide. The breed has short ears that slightly drop to the side of its head and a long muzzle that ends in a black nose. It has a strong instinctive desire to follow a scent and possesses the stamina to track a scent for long periods of time. The Otterhound is a friendly, happy, and confident breed, and makes an excellent companion for active households.

Care and Grooming

The Otterhound is an excellent breed for an active household, with a coat that requires a minimum of brushing to keep it neat and tidy. Because of the long shaggy coat, you will need to brush it, as well as trimming the long feathers to keep it neat and tidy. Its long, slightly pendulous ears need to be cleaned regularly to prevent large clumps of wax and other potential problems. The paws also require trimming as they are prone to picking up mud and debris. Regular exercise will help to keep the Otterhound healthy, and keep its coat in good condition.

Training and Socialization

Training and socializing your Otterhound is crucial to ensure it grows into a friendly, confident, and well-mannered companion. As with any breed, puppy socialization should start from an early age, with the Otterhound having a natural curiosity and boldness that must be encouraged. The Otterhound is a particularly intelligent breed and loves a challenge, so reward-based training methods are recommended to ensure behavior is consistent and positive.

Health and Wellness

As a relatively rare breed, the Otterhound has a naturally long and healthy lifespan. Although relatively healthy, some health issues can affect the breed, including hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin issues. It is recommended that you have your Otterhound annually checked by a veterinarian and feed it a high-quality diet specifically designed for large breed dogs.

Living Environment

The Otterhound is an active breed and needs an environment that can meet its requirements. A securely fenced, large yard or open area will provide plenty of space for the Otterhound to explore. If kept indoors, the Otterhound should be provided with sufficient exercise throughout the day. A long daily walk or run with plenty of opportunities to run off the leash is essential.

Temperament and Personality

The Otterhound is a confident, cheerful, and friendly breed. It is loyal to its family and has an entertaining, mischievous, and comical personality. While generally an obedient breed, the Otterhound has a tracking instinct and may wander off if given the opportunity. This is why proper obedience training and socialization are essential for the Otterhound.

Common Challenges

The Otterhound is a rare breed, and, as such, can be difficult to find. Additionally, the Otterhound requires a considerable amount of exercise and mental stimulation, so if owners are not willing to dedicate the time, the Otterhound may become destructive or disobedient. The Otterhound’s strong urge to follow a scent can make it difficult to keep track of in an unfenced area, so training and socialization are essential to prevent it from becoming a runaway.