{"id":137976,"date":"2016-11-16T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2016-11-15T22:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/?p=137976"},"modified":"2026-01-09T00:15:58","modified_gmt":"2026-01-08T22:15:58","slug":"otterhound","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/us\/breed-otterhound","title":{"rendered":"Otterhound"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The Otterhound<\/strong> is a big, shaggy, good-natured giant from Great Britain. Once the terror of river predators, today this breed has become a rare companion for true enthusiasts. With less than a thousand of them left worldwide, meeting an Otterhound is an event more unique than spotting a white rhino. Learn more on Tvaryny<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

History: From Royal Kennels to the Endangered List<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The history of the Otterhound reaches deep into the Middle Ages. The first mentions of dogs specializing in otter hunting date back to the reign of King John (1199-1216). In those times, the otter was considered not just a pest destroying fish in monastery and estate ponds, but a serious threat to the fishing industry. To combat this agile aquatic predator, a dog of a specific design was needed: strong, enduring, capable of swimming in icy water for hours, and possessing a phenomenal sense of smell.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It is believed that ancient Bloodhounds (which gave the breed its incredible nose), various types of wire-haired Terriers, and Griffons played a role in forming the breed. This connects them to other hunting breeds like the Latvian Hound<\/a>, although their specializations differ. The breed’s heyday came in the 19th century when otter hunting became a popular sport among the British aristocracy. Packs of Otterhounds, announcing a scent trail with their deep, musical baying, were the pride of many estates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the situation changed radically in the 20th century. The otter population in Britain dropped sharply, and public opinion began to turn against blood sports. In 1978, otter hunting was officially banned. This was a blow to the breed – large, expensive-to-maintain, highly specialized dogs became unnecessary. Fortunately, a group of enthusiasts undertook the mission to save this unique gene pool, repurposing the Otterhound as a companion and show dog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Appearance and Unique Anatomical Features<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The Otterhound is a dog of large but not coarse constitution. The first thing that catches the eye is its coat and head. The head is majestic and deep, covered with hair that forms characteristic moustaches and a beard, giving the dog the look of a wise old sage. The ears are long, hanging, and “rolled into a tube” (a characteristic trait), which helps gather scents and direct them to the nose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Parameter<\/th>Males<\/th>Females<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
Height at withers<\/strong><\/td>~27 inches (69 cm)<\/td>~24 inches (61 cm)<\/td><\/tr>
Weight<\/strong><\/td>80 – 115 lbs<\/td>65 – 100 lbs<\/td><\/tr>
Lifespan<\/strong><\/td>10 – 13 years<\/td>10 – 13 years<\/td><\/tr>
Coat Type<\/strong><\/td>Double, wiry, oily<\/td>Double, wiry, oily<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Webbed Feet.<\/strong> This is perhaps the breed’s most famous feature. The paws of an Otterhound are huge, round, and have well-developed webbing between the toes. This makes them unsurpassed swimmers, capable of covering significant distances against the current.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Coat.<\/strong> The Otterhound’s coat is unique. It is double-layered: a soft, thick, oily undercoat that prevents water from reaching the skin, and a coarse outer coat about 2-3 inches long. To the touch, the coat might feel a bit greasy – this is normal and serves as natural protection against water. In terms of coat structure and grooming needs, they are somewhat reminiscent of the Griffon Nivernais<\/a>, another breed known for its “shagginess” and durability in thickets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Character and Temperament: A Clown in an Aristocrat’s Body<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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If you expect unquestioning obedience like a Shepherd, you’d better look at other breeds. This is a classic hound – independent, stubborn, but infinitely good-natured. Owners often describe them as “big clowns.” They love to play, can be clumsy in the house (watch out for vases on low tables!), and absolutely adore socializing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n