The Otterhound Dog
The Otterhound dog originates from Great Britain dating back to ancient times. There is documentation that King John had a pack
of Otterhounds in the early thirteenth century. It was originally bred to enter cold, sometimes
icy rivers and follow otters to their den. At this point it would bay to alert the hunter. Small terriers would then be sent in
to kill the otter. Otter hunting was done in order to preserve fish stocks, a staple of the otter's diet. Otter hunting, though
never a popular sport, died out by 1950. Because of its easy going temperament, the otterhound dog has adapted quite well to
being a companion animal. It has never been a highly popular dog and at times has been near extinction. Even as a companion,
it loves the water and may become very independent when swimming or when near water.
It is well suited for swimming in that it has large webbed feet.
| Origin |
Great Britain - Antiquity |
| Original Use |
As the name suggests, the Otterhound dog was originally bred to hunt otters. |
| Use Today |
With the end of otter hunting, the Otterhound has become mainly a companion animal. |
| Temperament |
The Otterhound dog is loveable, cheerful, and even tempered dog. It makes a quiet easy going companion when at home. It loves to hunt, sniff, trail, and swim. Once it is hunting or on a scent, it may not respond to commands to return until it has succeeded in finding its prey. |
| Acceptance of: |
Other Dogs - Good |
| Other Pets - Good |
| Strangers - Very Accepting |
| Children - Good
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| Watchdog Ability |
Good |
| Guard dog Ability |
Not very good |
| Ease of Training |
Below Average |
| Living Conditions |
The Otterhound can live outdoors in moderate to cool climates but does need adequate shelter. |
| Exercise |
It requires a lot of daily exercise such as a long walk or jog. It loves to swim and its exercise requirements may also be met by spending time in a safe body of water. |
| Coat |
It has a two layered coat. The outer coat consists of coarse thick hair. The dense undercoat is wooly and insulates in cold, even icy water. |
| Grooming |
Brushing is required about once a week. |
| Colors |
The Otterhound comes in white with lemon or orange, or in tricolor, or grizzle. |
| Height and Weight |
Weight range is 70 to 120 pounds (32 to 57 kg) while the height range is 23 to 27 inches (58.4 to 68.6 cm). Variations may occur in individual animals. |
| Life Expectancy |
11 to 13 years. |
| Group |
The AKC places the Otterhound dog in the hound group. |
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