Otterhound - MAIN HUB
BREED GROUP
Hound Dogs
Country of origin
United Kingdom
BREED SIZE
Giant
BREED HEIGHT
24 -
28 IN
61 -
71 cm
BREED WEIGHT
80 -
115 LB
36 -
52 KG
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
american kennel club (AKC) recognition
Yes
Breed was recognized in 1909.
International Canine Federation (FCI) recognition
Yes
Breed was recognized in 1954.
WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?
Are Otterhounds good family dogs?
Good
7 out of 10
Otterhounds make affectionate family companions known for their amiable and boisterous personalities. While they are loyal, they are also independent thinkers with a stubborn streak that requires patient, reward-based training to thrive in a household.
Are Otterhounds good with kids?
Good
7 out of 10
While affectionate, their size and boisterous nature can be overwhelming for toddlers, often categorized as Better with Older Children.
Are Otterhounds good dogs for first time owners?
Not Recommended
1 out of 10
Otterhounds are generally not recommended for first-time owners due to their independent and stubborn nature. While they are amiable and affectionate, they are independent thinkers who require patient, consistent, and reward-based training. Their strong scent drive can make them easily distracted and difficult to manage for those without experience in handling large, boisterous scenthounds.
Are Otterhounds good apartment dogs?
Not Recommended
1 out of 10
Otterhounds are generally not well-suited for apartment living due to their large size, boisterous nature, and high exercise needs. They thrive best in spacious environments, ideally in rural areas or homes with large, securely fenced yards where they can roam and explore. Without adequate space and mental stimulation, they may become bored and prone to loud baying or destructive behavior.
Do Otterhounds need a yard?
Highly Recommended
2 out of 10
A large, securely fenced yard is highly recommended for Otterhounds to accommodate their boisterous nature and strong scent-tracking instincts. Their size and need for expansive space make them poorly suited for apartment living, as they thrive best in environments where they can safely roam and explore outdoors.
Can Otterhounds be left at home alone?
Not Recommended
1 out of 10
Otterhounds are highly social pack animals that typically do not do well when left alone for long periods and may develop separation anxiety. They are known to express their distress through loud, soulful baying or destructive behaviors, so they thrive best in households where they have constant human companionship or the company of another dog.
Do Otterhounds tolerate cats well?
Average
5 out of 10
Otterhounds can generally coexist well with cats, especially when raised together from a young age. Their amiable and boisterous personalities allow for harmonious relationships, but their strong scent drive and hunting instincts mean that supervision is necessary, and they may be prone to chasing unfamiliar cats.
Are Otterhounds known to be aggressive?
Gentle
9 out of 10
Otterhounds are not inherently aggressive and are typically known as gentle giants with an amiable, even-tempered nature. While they are friendly toward family and generally kind to strangers, they possess a strong-willed independence and can be protective if they sense a threat. Early socialization and consistent training are essential to manage their boisterous energy and ensure their natural friendliness is directed appropriately.
Do Otterhounds have a lot of energy?
Energetic
7 out of 10
Otterhounds are exceptionally high-energy dogs that require significant daily exercise and mental stimulation to thrive. Originally bred for long days of hunting in water and on land, they need outlets like swimming, long walks, or running in a large, secure yard. Without at least two hours of vigorous activity, these boisterous hounds can become bored, leading to destructive behaviors like chewing or excessive baying.
How much exercise do Otterhounds need?
~90 min a day
10 out of 10
Otterhounds are high-energy scenthounds that require approximately 1.5 to 2 hours of daily exercise to stay healthy and satisfied. As natural water lovers with webbed feet, they particularly enjoy swimming, but they also thrive on long walks, hikes, and scent-based games. Because of their strong tracking instincts, they should always be kept on a leash or in a securely fenced area during outdoor activities to prevent them from wandering off after a scent.
Do Otterhounds tolerate hot weather well?
Fair
4 out of 10
Otterhounds can struggle in extreme heat due to their thick, shaggy double coats, which are better suited for cooler climates and water. They may become lethargic during warm weather and are at risk of overheating if overexerted. Owners should ensure they have access to shade, plenty of fresh water, and a cool indoor space while avoiding strenuous exercise during peak sun hours.
Are Otterhounds good with cold weather?
Fair
4 out of 10
Otterhounds can struggle in extreme heat due to their thick, shaggy double coats, which are better suited for cooler climates and water. They may become lethargic during warm weather and are at risk of overheating if overexerted. Owners should ensure they have access to shade, plenty of fresh water, and a cool indoor space while avoiding strenuous exercise during peak sun hours.
Are Otterhounds sometimes banned from rentals?
Highly Likely
2 out of 10
Otterhounds are rarely included on specific breed-restricted lists, but their giant size and high energy levels make them challenging for most apartment settings. Many rentals have weight limits that this breed significantly exceeds, often capping at 50 pounds. Additionally, their loud, soulful baying can lead to noise complaints in close-quarters living, so it is essential to check individual landlord policies regarding giant breeds and noise.
WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?
