A hunting dog through and through – that’s him otterhound.
Originally bred to hunt otters, the breed has now become very rare.
We took a closer look at this child-loving, non-aggressive, but also stubborn four-legged friend and put together some interesting facts about him.
Otterhound Wanted Poster
Size Male: approx. 69 cm, female: approx. 61 cm Weight 30 – 40 kg Color Greyish, sandy, red, wheat colored, blue, all recognized scent hound colors are acceptable Life expectancy 10 – 12 years Origin Great Britain Character/temperament Stubborn, non-aggressive, fond of children, social, cheerfulFCI GroupGroup 6: Hounds, Scenthounds and Related Breeds Section 1: Hounds 1.1. Large hounds, without a working test
Look
The Otterhound (English name) is characterized by a majestic head. In addition, he has a strong physique.
Measuring up to 69 cm in males and 61 cm in females and weighing between 30 and 40 kg, the Otterhound is a large but athletic dog.
The otterhound has a relaxed, space-consuming movement. He moves elegantly but quickly.
His paws must be big. This is an important one breed trait.
The lips hang down. The tail is straight and set high.
ears
The otterhound’s ears are long and hanging down. They are set at the level of the corner of the eye.
The ears are also unique breed trait. They are very hairy.
The curtain reaches up to the nose when you pull it forward. The characteristic fold that is created is also intentional.
Also, the front edge of the fur curls inward. This looks like it is deliberately draped.
This is also wanted and must be maintained in breeding.
Eyes
The Otterhound owns intelligent Eyes. He has everything in view when hunting.
The color of the eyes depends on the color of the fur. Likewise the coloring of the eye rim.
For blue/tan – blue with tan markings, the eye color may be hazel. Yellow eyes are not desirable.
fur
The Otterhound’s coat is rough, dense, hard, and shaggy. The length is 4 – 8 cm.
The undercoat has one oily structure. This makes the Otterhound’s fur waterproof.
Colors
Allowed coat colors are:
- Gray
- Brown
- Yellow
- Blue
- Red
- White
color combinations are possible and allowed.
White markings, if not too large, may appear on the head, chest, paws and tip of the tail.
History & Origin of the Otterhound
The Otterhound was specially designed for that otter hunt bred in England. The reason was an overpopulation of otters, which attacked the fish stocks.
Various French hounds are considered ancestors. These included Griffons and Southern Hounds crossbred with English Hounds such as Bloodhounds.
The current form of the otterhound originated in the 19th century.
In 1978 the otter was placed under nature protection. So the demand for otterhounds also decreased.
Nature & Character of the Otterhound
The original Otterhound was used to hunting in packs. This leads to great social behavior and a calm temperament in this breed.
The Otterhound loves to live in a family. He also tolerates it when children treat him a little rudely.
All animals that live in households belong to the pack for the otterhound.
Faithfulness and loyalty to its people is irrefutable. That’s why he doesn’t like to be left alone.
However, the otterhound is also quite independent as a hunting dog, which gives it a reputation stubbornness is designed. This can sometimes become a problem.
Danger!
With Otterhund it is very clear: you will not get an independent hunting dog and a submissive command recipient combined in one dog here!
attitude & upbringing
With such an exceptionally independent and active dog, there are a number of things to consider when it comes to keeping and training them.
Space, consistency and patience are important factors here.
attitude
The otterhound needs a lot of space. In a small city apartment he would be heartbroken.
Keeping a kennel would not be an option for him under any circumstances.
A garden would be ideal. This breed also needs a lot of exercise.
The otterhound can run well on the bike to work out. He would also be the ideal companion dog for the rider.
The otterhound especially loves the water. He’s a great one swimmer.
Otterhounds love working with their noses. They are ideal for mantrailing or as members of a rescue dog squadron.
Upbringing
Since the otterhound has the independence desired for a hunting dog, you should start with the consistent training of a puppy.
It is important to have a lot of patience and not to take your stubborn behavior too seriously.
The otterhound will certainly never become a willless recipient of orders, but it has to learn a certain basic obedience.
You should definitely have one dog school visit with your young dog. In the best case one who has experience with hunting dogs.
Health & Care
In general, the Otterhound is a robust and healthy breed. However, like all large and powerful dog breeds, he tends to become overweight hip– and elbow dysplasia.
However, you can prevent these diseases by looking for a responsible breeder.
Proper diet and exercise also reduce the risk.
Although the Otterhound has a long coat, it is completely unproblematic when it comes to grooming. Regular brushing is sufficient.
But remember to also care for the ears and the dense hair around the eyes.
After walks in the warm season, you should check the thick fur of your furry friend for ticks.
Life expectancy
The life expectancy of your four-legged friend is 10-13 years. So you can expect a long time together.
Is the Otterhound right for me?
If you are looking for a relaxed family dog that is completely non-aggressive and loves its «pack» more than anything, the Otterhound is the right choice.
If you are also patient yourself and bring a dose of humor and consistency to the training of your dog, you will be a perfect match.
You must always keep in mind that with the Otterhound you are dealing with a hunting dog that will not hide its hunting instinct.
If you are also looking for a dog as a rescue or search dog and love being on and in the water just as much as he does, you are the perfect duo.
Otterhound fun facts
The first mention of the Otterhound in history was by King Henry II of England. He ruled from 1002 to 1024.
The English king also created the title «Master of Otters hounds«. He then gave it to himself.
Otterhounds have large feet and webbed feet. That is why they are excellent swimmers.
It should only be appreciated 1,000 specimens of this friendly and jovial dog worldwide.
Have we made you curious about this adorable dog breed? Or are you already a fan and your four-legged companion is even an otterhound?
Let us share your experiences and adventures about this great dog breed and leave a comment.