Otterhound
Description
The Otterhound is a rare breed with roots tracing back to 12th-century England, originally bred for otter hunting. Its dense, rough double coat protects against cold water, combining a coarse, oily outer layer with a soft, thick undercoat. This breed’s webbed feet enhance swimming ability, making it uniquely suited for aquatic pursuits. Otterhounds weigh between 80 and 115 pounds and display a variety of coat colors and markings, including black, lemon, and wheaten with distinctive white or tan patterns. Their population has dwindled sharply due to the ban on otter hunting, placing them among the world’s most endangered breeds. Friendly and affectionate, Otterhounds bond well with children and other dogs but may not suit homes with small pets due to their strong hunting drive. They’re bright but can be stubborn, requiring steady, patient training. While they don’t demand constant activity, they do need regular exercise to stay balanced and content. Their vocal nature means they bark frequently, which owners should prepare for.
Grooming
Otterhounds have a medium-length, rough double coat that demands regular attention to maintain its texture and health. Weekly carding removes dead hair trapped in the coat, preventing mats and keeping the coat breathable. Use a light slicker brush gently to avoid damaging the coarse outer layer. Every 8 to 12 weeks, handstripping is recommended to preserve the coat’s natural roughness and vibrant color, especially for show dogs or those kept outdoors frequently. Their coat colors—ranging from black and tan to lemon and wheaten—may show dirt easily, so spot cleaning is useful after outdoor activities. White markings can develop stains that benefit from targeted cleaning. - Weekly carding to remove dead hair - Gentle slicker brushing for surface dirt - Handstrip every 2–3 months - Spot clean stained white or light areas - Check ears regularly for debris and moisture Pro tip: Handstripping not only maintains coat texture but also helps reduce odor by removing oily buildup trapped in the outer coat.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
Otterhounds need about 60 minutes of walking daily, ideally in a single session to satisfy their scent-driven curiosity and stamina. Their strong noses mean they’ll want to explore smells thoroughly, so allow time for sniffing during walks. Because they’re large and can be vocal, a secure leash and calm environment help manage their enthusiasm. Walks in varied terrain, including water access if possible, engage their natural instincts and keep them mentally stimulated. A consistent routine helps with training and reduces stubborn behavior. Example routine: A 60-minute walk in the morning along a wooded trail with water access for swimming, followed by a calm cooldown period at home. This single daily session meets their exercise needs without overwhelming their joints or energy reserves. Bottom line: One focused, hour-long walk daily satisfies the Otterhound’s physical and mental needs best.
Boarding
When boarding an Otterhound, provide a crate at least 48 inches long to accommodate their large frame comfortably. They enjoy interactive play sessions, so plan for two active play blocks daily, incorporating scent and brain games to keep them engaged. Staff should be aware of their vocal tendencies and provide consistent reassurance to reduce barking. Otterhounds thrive with enrichment that taps into their tracking instincts, such as scent trails or puzzle feeders. Their social nature means they benefit from supervised interaction with other dogs but require monitoring due to their hunting background. A calm, structured environment helps them adjust smoothly to boarding. Bottom line: Large crate, twice-daily play with scent games, and attentive staff support keep Otterhounds happy and settled away from home.