Otterhound
The Otterhound is a big, lively and slightly boisterous dog who can make a wonderful family companion for those who can dedicate time to training and exercise. This breed is generally friendly, warm and relaxed. As lovely as they are, they’re not the type of dog who will be glued to your side and they do value independence.
The Otterhound was originally bred to hunt otters, though this has since (and rightly so) been deemed illegal. However, largely due to this ban, it’s estimated that there’s now less than 1,000 Otterhounds in the world.
Key facts about the Otterhound
Origins and history
Otterhounds date back as far as the 13th century, when King John kept an entire pack for hunting. Edward II subsequently became the ‘Master of Otterhounds’ and Elizabeth I the ‘Lady Master of Otterhounds’.
Otterhounds were particularly popular in 19th century Britain, but quickly decreased in number once the otter hunting ban was implemented in 1978. Now, they’re few and far between - there’s thought to be less than 1,000 left in the world!
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 6 - Scent hounds and related breeds
Section
Section 1 : Scent hounds
Physical characteristics of the Otterhound
Adult size
Female : Between 26 and 30 in
Male : Between 24 and 26 in
Weight
Female : Between 66 and 88 lb
Male : Between 66 and 88 lb
Coat colour
All colours are possible. The Otterhound coat can be black, black and white, black and tan, black and blue, liver and tan, red, grizzle or grizzle and white. The most common, though, would be black and tan grizzle.
Type of coat
The Otterhound has a very thick, rough, double coat. It’s extremely weather-resistant, with the hardy undercoat able to absorb an impressive amount of water. The outer coat is dense and rough, though hair on the head is softer.
Eye colour
This breed’s eyes range from hazel to black, depending on, and complimenting, the coat colour.
Description
The Otterhound is definitely unique in terms of appearance, boasting webbed feet, thick, ‘scruffy’ coats and a charming, rustic appearance. This is a large, powerful dog with strong limbs, torso and back.
The head is big (huge, even) while the muzzle is long and wide. The face has long hair dropping off it, adding to the charm. Eyes are deep-set and the ears are long and flop down the sides of the face. The tail is reasonably thick and high-set.
Good to know
Thanks to its oily dress and webbed feet, the Otter Dog can swim for 5 hours in pursuit of prey in the water.