Otterhound
About Breed
The Otterhound is a large, rare hound with a rough, water-resistant coat, originally bred in England for otter hunting. It is friendly, outgoing, and highly social, forming strong bonds with family and other pets. Otterhounds are intelligent, curious, and energetic, requiring daily exercise and mental stimulation. Their dense, shaggy coat needs regular grooming to prevent matting. They are playful, affectionate, and excellent swimmers. This breed has a keen sense of smell and enjoys scent-based activities. Otterhounds combine unique appearance, versatility, and a gentle, friendly temperament, making them ideal for active, dog-loving households.
Origin
United Kingdom
Size
Large
Ideal Space
House / Yard
Top 5 Traits
- Friendly
- Intelligent
- Energetic
- Social
- Loyal
Height
62 cms (males)
58 cms (females)
Coat Length
Thick
Coat Type
Rough Coat
Life Expectancy
10 – 12 years
Ideal Weather
5°C to 22°C
Weight
30 kgs (Male)
28 kgs (Female)
Color
- Black, Tan, Wheaten
Job & Working Abilities
- Hunting
- Companion
Allergies & Hypoallergenic Status
- Not hypoallergenic
- Moderate to heavy shed
- Skin sensitivity possible
- Moderate to high dander
Common Behavior Issues
- Barking
- Stubbornness
Travel & Adaptability
- High Traveller
Characteristics
The Otterhound is a large, rare British scent hound originally bred for hunting otters. It has a rough, water resistant coat, webbed feet, and a strong, muscular body designed for swimming and tracking game. This breed is intelligent, friendly, and sociable, forming strong bonds with its family and generally getting along well with other dogs. Otterhounds are energetic and require regular exercise, particularly swimming or long walks, to maintain fitness and satisfy their working instincts. Grooming is moderate but includes routine brushing to prevent mats and maintain coat health. Known for their cheerful and playful nature, they are affectionate and loyal companions. Early socialization and consistent, patient training help develop balanced behavior. With proper care, engagement, and space to exercise, the Otterhound becomes a devoted, gentle, and versatile family companion, combining hunting heritage with a friendly temperament.
Monthly Expenses
The Otterhound is a large, rare British hound, originally bred for hunting otters in rivers and wetlands. Recognizable for its rough, dense, water-resistant coat, long ears, and expressive face, it is both athletic and distinctive. Otterhounds are intelligent, friendly, and highly social, forming strong bonds with family members while remaining playful and affectionate. They are energetic and thrive on daily exercise, swimming, scent-based games, and outdoor exploration. Mental stimulation and interactive activities are important to prevent boredom and encourage problem-solving skills. Their thick, shaggy coat requires regular grooming, including brushing and occasional trimming to prevent matting and maintain cleanliness. Otterhounds are gentle, cheerful, and patient, often demonstrating tolerance with children and other pets. Socialization from a young age ensures confidence around strangers and adaptability in various environments. Despite their hunting instincts, they are affectionate companions, blending athleticism, intelligence, and loyalty. Otterhounds require owners committed to their exercise, grooming, and mental engagement. They are remarkable for their unique appearance, hunting skill, and friendly temperament, making them excellent companions for active households, families, and enthusiasts who appreciate rare, intelligent, and playful dogs with a strong connection to water, scent work, and outdoor activity.
Pet Nutrition
Nutrition Information
The Otterhound is a large, athletic, and energetic scent hound requiring a nutrient-rich diet to support stamina, lean muscle, and overall health. Puppies should receive large-breed puppy food with balanced protein, fats, calcium, and phosphorus to promote healthy growth and prevent joint or skeletal issues. Adults thrive on high-quality animal protein sources such as fish, chicken, or lamb to maintain lean muscle mass, with moderate healthy fats to fuel energy and support skin and coat condition. Complex carbohydrates such as rice, oats, or root vegetables provide sustained energy and aid digestion. Feeding should be portion-controlled, ideally in two meals per day, with low-calorie treats for training. Fresh water must always be available. Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids promote coat health, while glucosamine and chondroitin support joint mobility, which is important for active breeds prone to hip dysplasia. Regular exercise and mental stimulation complement nutrition to maintain endurance, prevent obesity, and support cardiovascular health. Avoid toxic human foods like chocolate, grapes, and onions. Seasonal adjustments may be necessary depending on activity level or climate. A well-balanced, nutrient-dense diet ensures the Otterhound maintains energy, agility, lean muscle, and overall health, supporting longevity, vitality, and a robust, active lifestyle for this intelligent and loyal hunting breed.
- Puppy - 500 – 800 kcal
- Adolescent - 1,000 – 1,500 kcal
- Adult - 1,500 – 2,500 kcal
- Senior - 900 – 2,000 kcal
Calories per day
List of Meat
- Chicken
- Beef
- Turkey
- Chicken Breast
- Duck Meat
List of Vegetables
- Spinach
- Carrot
- Green Beans
- Sweet Potato
- Peas
Diet Information
The Otterhound is a large, active scent hound requiring a nutrient-dense, high-protein diet to maintain stamina, lean muscle, and overall health. Puppies should receive large-breed puppy food with balanced protein, fats, calcium, and phosphorus to support healthy skeletal growth and prevent joint problems. Adults thrive on high-quality animal protein sources such as chicken, beef, or fish to maintain lean muscle mass, with moderate healthy fats providing energy and supporting skin and coat health. Complex carbohydrates like rice, oats, or root vegetables provide digestible energy and aid gastrointestinal function. Feeding should be portion-controlled, ideally in two or three meals per day, with low-calorie treats for training or enrichment. Fresh water must always be accessible. Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids enhance coat and skin health, while glucosamine and chondroitin support joint function for this active, large breed. Avoid toxic human foods including chocolate, grapes, onions, and processed snacks. Seasonal adjustments may be necessary depending on activity, climate, or workload. A carefully managed diet ensures the Otterhound maintains energy, endurance, lean muscle, and overall vitality. Combined with regular exercise and mental stimulation, proper feeding supports cardiovascular health, agility, and longevity, allowing this intelligent, friendly, and enthusiastic hunting breed to thrive as a working dog, companion, or family pet.
- Brown Rice
- Oatmeal
- Quinoa
- Barley
- Pumpkin
List of Carbs
- Hottentot Fig
- Desert Lime
- Finger Lime
- Desert Fig
- White Sapote
List of Fruits
- Olive Oil
- Coconut Oil
- Flaxseed Oil
- Fish Oil
- Hemp Oil
List of Fats
Safe Foods
Safe foods for the Otterhound should reflect its active nature while supporting coat health and digestive balance. Lean cooked proteins such as chicken, turkey, fish, and lamb provide high-quality nutrients for muscle maintenance and endurance. Cooked eggs can be included occasionally as a protein supplement. Complex carbohydrates like brown rice, oats, and sweet potatoes offer steady energy and promote gastrointestinal health. Vegetables including carrots, pumpkin, green beans, and zucchini contribute fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that support immune function. Fruits such as blueberries, apple slices without seeds, and seedless watermelon may be given sparingly as refreshing treats. Plain yogurt can provide probiotics that help maintain gut health. Healthy fats from fish oil enhance coat texture and skin condition. All foods should be served plain without salt, spices, onions, or oils. Offering safe foods in moderation alongside a balanced primary diet supports vitality, stamina, and overall wellbeing.
List of Unsafe Foods
- Chocolate
- Garlic
- Grapes
- Onions
Unsafe Foods
Otterhounds should avoid foods known to cause toxicity or digestive problems. Chocolate and caffeinated products contain methylxanthines that can cause tremors, rapid heart rate, and seizures. Grapes and raisins may lead to kidney failure even in small amounts. Onions, garlic, chives, and leeks can damage red blood cells and result in anemia. Xylitol in sugar-free gum, candies, and baked goods can cause hypoglycemia and liver damage. Cooked bones may splinter, creating choking hazards or intestinal injury. Fatty table scraps and fried foods increase pancreatitis risk. Alcohol and raw yeast dough may cause intoxication and gastrointestinal distress. Macadamia nuts can trigger weakness and vomiting. High-salt snacks may lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Moldy foods may contain harmful toxins. Avoid spicy or heavily seasoned dishes to support healthy digestion and maintain overall well-being.
Pet Health
Health Information
The Olde English Bulldogge is a medium to large, muscular, and loyal breed developed to combine the strength of the traditional English Bulldog with improved health, mobility, and temperament. Maintaining optimal health requires a comprehensive approach including proper nutrition, preventive veterinary care, regular exercise, grooming, and mental stimulation. Common health concerns include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, brachycephalic airway syndrome, heart conditions, skin allergies, and eye disorders such as cherry eye and entropion. Routine veterinary check-ups, ideally once or twice per year, are essential to monitor overall health, detect early signs of illness, and ensure vaccinations are up to date. Standard vaccinations, including rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and bordetella, should be administered on schedule, with annual boosters to maintain immunity. Parasite prevention through monthly flea, tick, and deworming treatments is crucial to prevent infestations and secondary health issues. Olde English Bulldogges are moderately active dogs requiring at least 30–45 minutes of daily exercise, including walking, supervised play, and low-impact activities, to maintain cardiovascular fitness, lean muscle, and joint mobility without overstraining their bodies. Mental stimulation is equally important; obedience training, puzzle toys, and interactive games help prevent boredom-related behaviors such as chewing, digging, or excessive barking. Grooming needs are low to moderate due to their short coat; weekly brushing removes loose hair, distributes natural oils, and maintains coat health, while regular bathing ensures cleanliness and skin hygiene. Ear care prevents infections, and dental hygiene, including brushing and dental chews, supports oral health and reduces tartar buildup. Nutrition should consist of high-quality protein, digestible carbohydrates, and moderate fats to support energy, muscle tone, and overall wellness, with attention to maintaining a healthy weight. Weight management is critical, as overfeeding can exacerbate joint, heart, and respiratory issues. Early socialization with children, other pets, and strangers fosters confidence, emotional stability, and proper behavior. Monitoring appetite, activity, and behavior allows timely intervention for potential health concerns. With proper care, Olde English Bulldogges can live 10–12 years, remaining intelligent, loyal, affectionate, and healthy companions. Combining preventive veterinary care, balanced nutrition, exercise, grooming, and mental enrichment ensures Olde English Bulldogges thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally throughout life.
Common Health Issues
- Allergies
- Hip Dysplasia
Energy Level
- High
Allergies & Hypoallergenic
- Not hypoallergenic
- Moderate to heavy shed
- Skin sensitivity possible
- Moderate to high dander
Well Being
- Active
- Loyal
Recognizing Stress
- Barking
- Stubbornness
Exercise Routine
- 60 to 120 minutes
The Olde English Bulldogge is a medium to large, muscular, and loyal breed developed to combine the strength of the traditional English Bulldog with improved health, mobility, and temperament. Maintaining optimal health requires a comprehensive approach including proper nutrition, preventive veterinary care, regular exercise, grooming, and mental stimulation. Common health concerns include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, brachycephalic airway syndrome, heart conditions, skin allergies, and eye disorders such as cherry eye and entropion. Routine veterinary check-ups, ideally once or twice per year, are essential to monitor overall health, detect early signs of illness, and ensure vaccinations are up to date. Standard vaccinations, including rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and bordetella, should be administered on schedule, with annual boosters to maintain immunity. Parasite prevention through monthly flea, tick, and deworming treatments is crucial to prevent infestations and secondary health issues. Olde English Bulldogges are moderately active dogs requiring at least 30–45 minutes of daily exercise, including walking, supervised play, and low-impact activities, to maintain cardiovascular fitness, lean muscle, and joint mobility without overstraining their bodies. Mental stimulation is equally important; obedience training, puzzle toys, and interactive games help prevent boredom-related behaviors such as chewing, digging, or excessive barking. Grooming needs are low to moderate due to their short coat; weekly brushing removes loose hair, distributes natural oils, and maintains coat health, while regular bathing ensures cleanliness and skin hygiene. Ear care prevents infections, and dental hygiene, including brushing and dental chews, supports oral health and reduces tartar buildup. Nutrition should consist of high-quality protein, digestible carbohydrates, and moderate fats to support energy, muscle tone, and overall wellness, with attention to maintaining a healthy weight. Weight management is critical, as overfeeding can exacerbate joint, heart, and respiratory issues. Early socialization with children, other pets, and strangers fosters confidence, emotional stability, and proper behavior. Monitoring appetite, activity, and behavior allows timely intervention for potential health concerns. With proper care, Olde English Bulldogges can live 10–12 years, remaining intelligent, loyal, affectionate, and healthy companions. Combining preventive veterinary care, balanced nutrition, exercise, grooming, and mental enrichment ensures Olde English Bulldogges thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally throughout life.
Pet Activities:
Engaging your pet in daily walks, fetch, or toys keeps your pet fit, mentally sharp, and well-behaved while strengthening your bond.
Swimming & Scent Tracking (40–50 mins)
Otterhounds enjoy swimming sessions, scent tracking games, and long outdoor walks that match their hunting instincts.
Scent Tracking & Endurance Walks (35 – 45 mins)
Otterhounds enjoy long walks, scent-based tracking, and interactive outdoor exploration.
Obedience Training (20 – 30 mins)
Structured training sessions using commands like sit, stay, recall, and heel help improve discipline and mental stimulation. Akitas are intelligent and independent; consistent obedience training enhances discipline and mental engagement.
Otterhounds possess a distinctive rough, oily double coat developed for water work, requiring routine yet specialized grooming care. Brushing two to three times weekly with a slicker brush and metal comb helps remove loose hair, prevent tangles, and maintain coat texture without excessive softening. Attention should be given to feathered areas on the legs, chest, and tail where debris can accumulate after outdoor adventures. Because the coat contains natural oils providing water resistance, bathing should be infrequent, typically every two to three months or when heavily soiled. Using a gentle shampoo preserves protective oils while preventing dryness. Thorough rinsing and air or low-heat drying maintain coat condition. Otterhounds have long, pendulous ears that require weekly inspection and cleaning to minimize infection risk caused by trapped moisture. Nail trimming every few weeks supports sound movement and prevents overgrowth. Regular dental care through brushing or chews contributes to overall health. Owners should also check paws after walks for mud, seeds, or irritation, especially given the breed’s love of water and rough terrain. Hand stripping is occasionally recommended to remove dead coat and preserve texture. Consistent grooming sessions keep Otterhounds comfortable, clean, odor free, and ready for active outdoor lifestyles with confidence daily.
Shedding Level
High
Hygienic Checklist
- Brushing
- Nail Trimming
- Ear Cleaning
Benefits of Grooming
- Coat & Skin Health
Compare Otterhound with other Breeds
Otterhound
Friendly, Intelligent, Energetic
Characteristics
Basic Information
Monthly Expenses
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