Otterhound

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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Otterhound is a large, shaggy hound originally bred for hunting otters, known for their friendly and boisterous temperament and distinctive baying. They require significant exercise and are adaptable companions if their needs are met, though they are prone to some health issues.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in Great Britain to hunt otters.
  • Now primarily a companion animal due to the ban on otter hunting.

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female24 inches (61 cm)80 pounds (36 kg)
Male27 inches (69 cm)115 pounds (52 kg)

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Any color or combination of colors; common colors include grizzle, sandy, red, and black and tan.
Type
  • Double coat
  • Outer coat is coarse and dense
  • Water-resistant undercoat.
Length
  • Medium to long.

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Moderate
Grooming
  • Weekly brushing recommended.
Drooling
  • Moderate

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Large and impressive.
Skull
  • Broad, with a slight peak.
Ears
  • Long, pendant, and folded
Eyes
  • Dark, set moderately deep with a kind expression.
Nose
  • Large, well-developed nostrils.
Muzzle
  • Deep, powerful, and square.
Teeth
  • Scissor bite
Neck
  • Strong, muscular and arched.
Forequarters
  • Powerful and well-muscled.
Fore Legs
  • Straight, strong boned.
Hindquarters
  • Broad and muscular.
Hind Legs
  • Well-angulated.
Feet
  • Large, webbed, with thick pads.
Tail
  • Long, set high, carried gaily.
Gait
  • Loose and loping.

Temperament

  • Friendly, even-tempered, and boisterous.
  • Can be stubborn at times.
  • Known for their melodic baying.

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Very affectionate.
Good with Children
  • Good.
Good with Dogs
  • Good.
Good with Cats
  • Variable.
Openness to Strangers
  • Friendly.
Playfulness Level
  • Playful.
Protective Nature
  • Not very protective.
Adaptability Level
  • Adaptable to different living situations if exercise needs are met.

Working Roles

  • Originally bred for otter hunting.
  • Now primarily a companion animal.

Exercise Needs

  • High; requires a good amount of daily exercise.

Health

  • Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and epilepsy.

Additional Notes

  • The Otterhound is a rare breed.
  • Their unique baying is a distinctive breed characteristic.
  • They are excellent swimmers.

References