Otterhound Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Otterhound is a large, shaggy British scent hound with a rough, oily coat, webbed feet and a deep, musical bay. It was bred to hunt otters in rivers, and it remains one of the rarest breeds in the hound group.

Origins and appearance

Otterhounds developed in England, probably from rough-coated hounds and Bloodhound-type dogs, and they hunted otters in packs until otter hunting ended in the twentieth century. They are large and sturdy, with a long head, a beard and moustache, long drop ears, a double coat that is rough and waterproof and a long, feathered tail.

Temperament

They are boisterous, friendly and affectionate. They are usually good with children and other dogs, though a large, clumsy puppy can knock people over. They are independent, stubborn and food-motivated. They can be noisy. They dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need one to two hours of daily exercise, with walks, scent work and, ideally, swimming. They have great stamina. Secure fencing is essential, since they follow scents.

Training

They are intelligent but independent. Use positive methods, patience and food rewards. Do not expect a reliable off-lead recall. Early socialization helps. See how to use treats in dog training.

Coat and grooming

The rough coat needs brushing several times a week and occasional trimming. See double coat dog grooming guide. Wash the beard after meals, clean ears, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Ear infections. See dog ear infections
• Hereditary blood conditions, including a clotting disorder, with tests
• Elbow dysplasia
• Cancer and a modest lifespan

Living with an Otterhound

They suit active families with a large, secure yard and a tolerance for mess. They do best with company. They are poorly suited to apartments, tidy homes or long hours alone.

A typical day

An Otterhound wants a long morning outing, perhaps with a swim, a nap, family time and an evening sniffing walk. Many are calm indoors once exercised.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are large, clumsy and curious. Begin socialization, handling and gentle training. Provide chew toys, and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food for a large dog, grooming and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They enjoy cold and wet weather but overheat easily in warm conditions. Provide shade, water and cool resting places. They travel well with a sturdy crate.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include trusting the dog off lead, neglecting the coat and ears, underexercising and leaving the dog alone.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip and elbow tests, screening for clotting disorders and the parents' temperaments. The breed is rare, so expect a long wait and possibly travel.

A rare and shaggy hound

Only a few hundred Otterhounds are registered in many countries, and some national clubs regularly describe the breed as vulnerable. Owners often become part of a small community that shares advice and cares about the breed's future.

Webbed feet and waterproof coat

The breed has webbed toes and an oily outer coat that sheds water, features that suit river work. After a swim, dry the ears and coat thoroughly, because damp fur can cause skin and ear problems.

Daily care checklist

• A long outing with time to sniff, and a swim where safe.
• Brushing and a check of the coat for burrs.
• Washing and drying the beard and ears.
• Measured meals, with quiet time afterward.
• Company and a comfortable bed.

Is it the right breed for you?

An Otterhound suits relaxed, active owners who want a shaggy, water-loving scent hound and accept mess and independence. It may not suit tidy households or those wanting an obedient dog. For another British hound, see the Bloodhound.

The takeaway

Otterhounds are shaggy, boisterous and water-loving, and they need exercise, grooming and patience.