Otterhound
Quick Facts:
- AKC recognized in 1907
- Lifespan: 10-13 years
- Size: Large
- Energy: Medium
- Recommended Crate Size: 48" dog crate*
Return to the main Dog Crate Sizes Breed Chart.
Table of contents
Introduction
Otterhounds originate from England as a scent hound.
It is recognized by some kennel clubs as rare because only 600 Otterhounds still exist worldwide. So, expect to be put on a waiting list if you want to get one.
Otterhounds are often stated as the dream dog. It has a Bulldog’s courage, a Pointer’s nose, the stamina of a Foxhound, a Newfoundland's strength in water, a Retriever’s sagacity, and the intelligence of Collie.
Breed
The American Kennel Club formally recognized the Otterhound in 1907.
These medium energy dogs are known as even-tempered, cheerful, affectionate, amiable, and boisterous.
Otterhounds are now ranked by AKC as the 166th most popular dog breed.
Although they tolerate being alone, unfortunately, they have minimum adaptation to the apartment living.
Otterhounds are really friendly both with kids and other dogs but some recommend that it is better to leave them with older kids. Supervision and proper training are recommended.
Appearance
Otterhounds weigh between 80 to 115 pounds and 24 to 27 inches in height, with females being smaller than males.
They have a large, strong, and sturdy body because they were bred for hunting.
They do well both in land and water, with their extremely sensitive pointed nose and webbed feet.
Otterhounds have a rough coat that comes in 11 colors and 10 markings recognized by AKC but not all of them are standard. The standard colors are black, black tan, blue cream, gray, and liver tan with badger, black tan, black, grizzle, liver, and white markings.
Nutrition
It is recommended to provide feed formulated to 80 to 115 pounds sized breeds. It is highly recommended to discuss your dog’s feed with your veterinarian and/or breeder in order to determine the size and frequency of meals in order to ensure a healthy, long life. It is also important to ensure that clean, fresh water is always available.
Grooming
They have a shaggy coat and typically shed everywhere. Brush their coat once or twice a week to remove tangles and avoid matting. Their coat is not naturally clipped so if you decide to clip it, it will take years for the coat to grow back to its original length.
Their mouths and beards need to be washed regularly after messier meals to keep them clean and avoid bad odors.
Trim their nails once or twice a month and brush their teeth two to three times a week.
Exercise
With their medium energy, daily exercise of between 30-60 minutes is recommended.
Although they enjoy being outdoors, just playing and catching a ball, again and again, is not exciting for them and may even cause stress.
They love to hunt, driven by their instinct. Taking them to a watery place is good too. At least twice or three times a week, take them for a walk or run to the park.
Pet Crate Size
Pet Crates Direct recommends a 48" dog crates* for most adult Otterhounds.
Return to the main Dog Crate Sizes Breed Chart.
* Links for crate sizes will bring you to the most appropriate Amazon page.
