Imagine a shaggy, web-footed hound with a deep baying voice and an adventurous spirit—that’s the Otterhound. This rare breed is a mix of goofy charm and historic grit, bred for water work but adored today as a gentle, playful family companion. Curious about what makes them so unique? Let’s dive in.
Fast Facts About the Otterhound
| Breed Group | Hound (Scenthound) |
| Height | 24–28 inches |
| Weight | 80–115 lbs |
| Coat | Double, rough, water-resistant |
| Colors | Black & tan, wheaten, grizzle, blue, and more |
| Life Expectancy | 10–13 years |
| Special Features | Webbed feet, booming bark, rare breed status (<1,000 worldwide) |
History & Origins
The Otterhound’s roots trace back to medieval England, where they were bred to hunt otters that threatened fish stocks. Their strong swimming ability, dense coat, and powerful nose made them perfectly suited for the job. They were so effective, in fact, that the sport was banned in 1978 to protect otters. Today, Otterhounds are considered one of Britain’s rarest native breeds, with fewer than 1,000 left worldwide.
Personality & Temperament
Affectionate, fun-loving, and clownish, Otterhounds make wonderful companions for active families. They adore social interaction and thrive on being part of the action—whether that’s a hike, swim, or just lounging in the yard. Their hound instincts mean they’ll follow their nose wherever it leads, so secure fencing or long leads are must-haves.
Exercise & Enrichment
Otterhounds have high energy levels and need at least 1–2 hours of daily activity. Swimming is their natural playground, but they also love long walks, scent games, and tracking work. Without exercise and mental engagement, they can become mischievous (translation: counter-surfing, digging, or baying for fun).
- LickMat – Perfect for winding down after play.
- The Pupsicle – A cooling enrichment tool after swims.
- Pupsicle Treat Mix Pack – Great frozen snacks for hot days.
Training Tips
Otterhounds are intelligent but independent thinkers. They can be stubborn, so consistent, positive reinforcement works best. Early socialization and recall training are crucial—especially since their nose can distract them easily. Fun, scent-based games make training feel natural and rewarding.
High-value motivators like Love Nuggets or Bacon & Cheese Treat Mix are perfect training rewards to keep their attention focused.
Grooming & Coat Care
The Otterhound’s double coat is dense, rough, and water-resistant—great for swimming, but prone to tangles. Weekly brushing is essential (2–3x if their coat is long), and beard cleaning is a must to avoid odor. Bathing every few months—or after muddy swims—is plenty. Regular ear checks and dental care help prevent infections.
Pro tip: Grooming can be paired with a LickMat Alpha Pack topped with Calming LickMix for a stress-free experience.
Health & Lifespan
While hardy overall, Otterhounds face some large-breed health risks:
- Hip & elbow dysplasia – Joint support is crucial.
- Epilepsy – Seen occasionally in the breed.
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus) – A life-threatening condition requiring awareness and prevention.
Supplements like Salmon Oil for coat and joint health or Hip & Joint Pops for mobility make excellent wellness add-ons.
Is the Otterhound Right for You?
If you’re active, outdoorsy, and ready for a rare companion with a booming voice and a goofy grin, the Otterhound could be your perfect match. They’re best for homes with space to roam, time for daily activity, and patience for a strong-willed hound. Apartment dwellers or low-energy households may find this breed a challenge.
Final Woof
The Otterhound is history, heart, and hilarity rolled into one shaggy, web-footed package. They’re rare, lovable, and always ready for the next adventure. With proper exercise, grooming, health support, and enrichment from Woof’s Best Sellers, your Otterhound will thrive as both a loyal companion and the life of the party.
