Otterhound

Breed Type: Hound
Common nicknames: Otterhound
Coat: Rough, double
Hypoallergenic: No, they will likely trigger allergies.
Temperament: Loving, friendly, playful, energetic
Life expectancy: 10-13 years
Color & patterns: Black and tan
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Otterhound - brown
Otterhound - brown
The Otterhound is an excellent choice for those seeking a friendly and adventurous pup. With their shaggy coats and expressive eyes, these dogs possess a distinctive charm that captures hearts. Otterhounds are known for their playful and outgoing nature, making them great family pets and social companions. Otterhounds are intelligent and trainable, although they can have an independent streak. Their love for the outdoors and their exceptional sense of smell make them excellent trackers and scent hounds. If you’re looking for a lovable and active pal who brings positive vibes, the Otterhound is sure to do just that.

Otterhound characteristics

Learn about about Otterhound basics like their fur colors, shedding levels, how much grooming they need, and other Otterhound facts.

Average height

24-27 inches (61.0-68.6cm)

Average weight

58-118 pounds (26.3-53.5 kg)

Average lifespan

10-13 years

Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
Grooming needs
OccasionallyFrequently
Full-grown size
Teeny tinySuper size
Good with cats
Likely to chaseHey, new pal!
Good with kids
Needs lots of supervisionEager to play
Training Aptitude
HeadstrongEager to please
How much do Otterhounds shed?

Otterhounds shed moderately. Their thick, rough, double coat is designed for water resistance and sheds regularly, but not excessively, compared to some other breeds. However, they do experience heavier shedding periods, especially during seasonal changes (spring and fall).  Regular brushing a couple of times per week helps manage shedding and prevents their coat from becoming matted. This also reduces the amount of loose hair around the house.

What is the average lifespan of an Otterhound?

The average lifespan of an Otterhound is typically around 10 to 13 years. Like many breeds, their lifespan can vary based on factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health care. Regular vet checkups and good care can help them live a longer, healthier life.

When do Otterhounds stop growing?

Otterhounds stop growing around 18 to 24 months of age. They are a large breed, and their growth can be gradual, with their full physical development continuing into their second year. During this time, they can still gain muscle and fill out, even if they’ve reached their full height.

How big do Otterhounds get?

Otterhounds are a large breed. Males are about 27 inches tall at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller, around 24 inches tall. Males usually weigh 115 pounds on average, and females typically weigh 80 pounds.

Do Otterhounds have webbed feet?

Yes, Otterhounds have webbed feet. This feature is one of the reasons they are excellent swimmers, as they were originally bred for hunting otters in the water. Their webbed feet, along with their strong, muscular build and thick, water-resistant coat, make them well-suited for navigating through water with ease.

What colors do Otterhounds come in?

Otterhounds can be a variety of colors, including black, black and tan, blue and cream, gray, liver and tan, tan, wheaten, blue, lemon, black, and white, black, and tan.

Otterhound history

Learn about where this Otterhound came from!

Why are Otterhounds so rare?

Otterhounds are rare today for a few reasons. They were originally bred for a very specific task, hunting otters, which is not common now due to changes in hunting regulations and practices. As the demand for their hunting skills decreased, so did their numbers. Additionally, their distinctive needs and characteristics, such as their large size and high exercise requirements, make them less popular compared to some other breeds.

Where are Otterhounds from?

Otterhounds are from England. They were developed in the 11th century to hunt otters. Their history is quite rich and closely tied to hunting and working alongside humans in England.

What were Otterhounds bred for?

Otterhounds were bred primarily for hunting otters. They have a keen sense of smell, strong swimming ability, and a rugged, water-resistant coat that makes them well-suited for tracking and pursuing otters in various types of terrain, including rivers.

Otterhound temperament

Learn about about the Otterhound temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Do Otterhounds make good pets?

Yes, Otterhounds make good pets, but they are not the best fit for every household. Otterhounds are loving and friendly. They tend to get along well with family members, including children, and are usually good with other dogs. They have a playful spirit and love outdoor activities, making them great companions for active families that enjoy hiking or swimming.

Otterhounds are large, active dogs that need plenty of physical exercise. Without enough activity, they can become bored and potentially destructive. Due to their size and energy levels, they are better suited for homes with a yard rather than apartments. Being scent hounds, they have a strong drive to follow their noses and might wander off, so a secure yard or leash is essential.

Do Otterhounds bark a lot?

Yes, Otterhounds bark a lot. Their loud, deep bark is used to communicate long distances during hunting. They might bark at unfamiliar sights, sounds, or visitors, though they are not typically aggressive or considered guard dogs. Otterhounds can also bark out of boredom if they don’t get enough exercise or mental stimulation. Proper training and adequate exercise can help minimize excessive barking. However, they may not be ideal for environments where excessive noise could be an issue.

Are Otterhounds good family dogs?

Yes, Otterhounds are good family dogs, especially for families that are active and can meet their needs. Otterhounds enjoy being around people and are known to bond closely with their families. They are typically patient and playful, making them good companions for children. Otterhounds love to be involved in family fun. Their size and energy match well with active families who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, running, or swimming.

Are Otterhounds easy to train?

No, Otterhounds are not easy to train. They are generally challenging to train due to their independent and sometimes stubborn nature. While they are intelligent and capable of learning, their strong prey drive and hunting instincts can make them less responsive to training compared to some other breeds. Consistent, firm, and positive reinforcement training methods work best. Repetition and clear communication are key. However, keep in mind that training any dog takes substantial time and effort, regardless of breed.

Are Otterhounds smart?

Yes, Otterhounds are smart dogs, but their intelligence can manifest differently compared to more conventional breeds. They are clever and have strong problem-solving skills, especially when it comes to using their noses for tracking and scent work. However, their intelligence is coupled with an independent streak and strong prey drive, which can sometimes make training a bit more challenging.

Are Otterhounds friendly?

Yes, Otterhounds are friendly and affectionate. They tend to be warm and social with people and enjoy spending time with their family members, forming strong bonds with them. They have a playful spirit and are often enthusiastic about activities, making them fun and engaging pets.

Can Otterhounds be left alone?

Yes, Otterhounds can be left alone for short periods, but they are generally not suited for long hours of solitude. Otterhounds are social dogs that thrive on interaction and companionship. Long periods of isolation can lead to boredom and anxiety, potentially resulting in destructive behavior. They need regular exercise to stay physically and mentally stimulated. If left alone for too long without adequate activity, they might become restless or engage in problematic behaviors.

If you need to leave your Otterhound alone, start with short periods and gradually increase the time while ensuring they have engaging toys or food puzzles. If possible, having another dog or a pet sitter can help alleviate loneliness and provide some company while you’re away.

Are Otterhounds good with kids?

Yes, Otterhounds are good with kids, particularly in active households. They are affectionate, gentle, and usually patient with children. Their playful demeanor and energy level match well with kids who love to run, play, and engage in outdoor activities.

Otterhounds are large dogs, which means they might unintentionally knock over smaller children, especially when excited or playful. As with any large breed, it’s important to supervise interactions between an Otterhound and young children to ensure safe and respectful play. Teaching children how to properly approach and handle dogs is crucial to ensure positive experiences for both the dog and the child, as is teaching dogs how to interact gently with children.

Are Otterhounds good with other dogs?

Yes, Otterhounds are good with other dogs in general. As a breed that historically hunted in packs, Otterhounds have a natural inclination to get along well with other dogs. They are typically friendly and enjoy interacting with other dogs. Their social nature often makes them good companions in a multi-dog household. 

Due to their strong prey drive, Otterhounds may sometimes exhibit chase behavior, especially with smaller or fast-moving dogs. This is something to monitor and manage. Proper socialization from a young age is important. Exposing them to various dogs in different settings will help them develop good social skills and reduce any potential issues.

Are Otterhounds good with cats?

Yes, Otterhounds can potentially be good with cats, but it largely depends on the individual dog and how the pets are introduced. Being scent hounds with a strong prey drive, Otterhounds might instinctively chase smaller animals like cats. However, with proper training and socialization, many Otterhounds can coexist peacefully with cats. Otterhounds who are raised with cats from a young age are more likely to see them as part of the family rather than something to chase.

Otterhound health

Learn about about the Otterhound health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

What are the health issues with Otterhounds?

Otterhounds are generally a robust and healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Here are some common health concerns to be aware of with Otterhounds:

  • Hip dysplasia: This genetic condition involves abnormal development of the hip joint, which can lead to arthritis and pain. 

  • Ear infections: Their floppy, long ears can trap moisture and debris, making them prone to ear infections. Regular ear cleaning and inspections are important to prevent infections.

  • Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus): This is a serious condition in which the stomach fills with gas and twists, which is life-threatening. 

  • Eye conditions: Otterhounds are prone to certain eye conditions, such as cataracts. 

  • Hypothyroidism: This is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, leading to symptoms like weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems. It can be managed with medication.

  • Obesity: Due to their large size and love of food, Otterhounds are prone to obesity. Maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise is crucial to avoid this issue.

Are Otterhounds hypoallergenic?

Otterhounds are not hypoallergenic. Their dense, double-coat sheds and can also trap dander, which can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.

Do you need to groom an Otterhound?

Yes, you need to groom an Otterhound. They are not high-maintenance compared to some other breeds, but consistent grooming is essential. They should be brushed at least two to three times per week to prevent mats and tangles. During shedding seasons, more frequent brushing might be needed to remove loose hair.

Otterhounds have an oily coat, which helps waterproof them for swimming, but it can cause a distinct “hound” odor. Occasional bathing will keep their coat clean and help cut down on the smell. Their long, floppy ears are prone to infections, so clean and inspect them regularly.

Find Otterhound puppies near you

Adopting an Otterhound

We don't see any Otterhounds available for adoption in your exact location or cities near you, but here are some adorable similar breeds in Columbus, OH.

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Diamond

Pug Beagle
Male, 8 yrs 7 mos
Westerville, OH
Color
White - with Brown or Chocolate
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Diamond is a 6 years old male pug mix. We think he may be part of a beagle. He weighs 21 lbs. Diamond is fully vaccinated, microchipped, and neutered. He is mostly house trained. Diamond is a quiet boy. He is very shy. He is friendly to most of the dogs. He is not friendly to male dogs which are not nice to him. His reaction to these dogs are nonstop barking. Diamond is also friendly to kids. We are not sure about cats. Diamond's adoption fee is $250. Please submit the adoption application at https://charlieswishanimalrescue.org. We need to have the application to schedule a meet and greet.
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Barry

Shih Tzu Bichon Frise
Male, 5 yrs 7 mos
Westerville, OH
Color
White
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Story
Meet Barry. He is a 5 years old Shih Tzu/Bichon mix. He doesn't shed. Barry is sweet and loves to kiss and cuddle. He stands up with his rear legs when wanting a treat. He is good with dogs. Barry is protective and doesn't like kids. Teenagers are ok. He is fully vaccinated, microchipped, and neutered. Barry is not house trained. Barry weighs 23 lbs. Barry's adoption fee is $250. Please submit an adoption application at https://charlieswishanimalrescue.org. We have to have your application to schedule a meet and greed.
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Nala

German Shepherd Dog
Female, adult
Westerville, OH
Color
Black - with Tan, Yellow or Fawn
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with dogs
Needs experienced adopter
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
We adopted Nala as a puppy from the Dane County Humane Society 7 years ago. She is an energetic, playful dog who loves people and has done well with other dogs in the past. She is looking for a home that can provide her with plenty of exercise and activities. She's a well-behaved dog, with limited skills and training included. She is also crate trained, knows how to "heel", sit, lay down, shake, settle and also can catch a frisbee which she loves playing with. Her other favorite is tug of war. Her high energy levels and requirements for exercise and attention has become a challenge with our newborn baby and we want to find a home that is a perfect fit for her. It is better for Nala that she finds a home that is well-suited for her.
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Ember

Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium)
Female, young
Westerville, OH
Color
Tan/Yellow/Fawn
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Good with cats
Needs experienced adopter
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Ember is a wonderful dog. She can be dominant on food, toys, and affection. She is very friendly with other dogs outside of the household. She can be timid at first when meeting new people due to her shelter background, but once she warms up, she is very affectionate. Up to date on all shots. Free XL crate if needed. She is potty trained, but sometimes has accidents when she is nervous. She knows how to sit and her recall is amazing. She is an energized dog, but also knows how to cuddle and hang out. She does well with our 4 year old daughter. She is also leash trained. Ember loves hiking, running on the leash, and playing with other dogs at the dog park. (Doesn't like dominate dogs) We would love to find a loving home that has time to dedicate to her. She does well with other dogs, however can be dominate at times. If you have another pet, we would want them to meet first. Please reach out with any questions you may have about her. We look forward to finding her a lovable home.
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Rocky

Boxer American Pit Bull Terrier
Male, adult
Westerville, OH
Color
Brown/Chocolate - with White
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Not good with kids
Good with dogs
Needs experienced adopter
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Meet Rocky he is a 3 year old boxer pit bull mix. He is a very sweet boy that I found running loose in Westerville Ohio. Ive had him now for 5 months. The only reason I’m not keeping him is space my financials and I already have 2 dogs. But back to Rocky I believe he was raised with an iron fist. He can be startled by things but is easily assured. He loves bones and toys!! Overall a great dog loves to lay on the couch and prefers sleeping in the bed while touching you, lol. He has learned that talking to him sternly doesn’t mean that he’s gonna get hit or he’s in trouble. It just means he needs to listen and focus and he listens really well. I think he would be great for a young person.That’s just looking to have a companion. I don’t have kids so I say no kids just b/c he doesn’t like to be pulled on,moved/pushed. The truth is he just wants to be loved petted some treats toys and you will make him so happy. I just want the best for him he deserves to know the best life a dog can have.
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Harvey

Shepherd (Unknown Type)
Male, young
Westerville, OH
Color
Brown/Chocolate - with White
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
We adopted Harvey 11/23 after the loss of a pet he’s a wonderful pup. He does jump when really excited and is high energy but he also loves naps and hanging out around the house. We had more space for him but when we moved he just doesn’t seem as happy he would be best with a LOT of space I feel like he would be a good farm pup he is crate trained though I am not sure he needs it our other dog does so we crate them both so there is no jealousy. I really hope someone can love this good boy as much as we do he just deserves more. He’s around 4-5 when I adopted him they said. No health issues