Origin

The breed was used to hunt otters and so its name became Otterhound. This breed was created by mixing the blood hound with many terriers etc. Breeders went on trying and trying unless they got the proper b reed.

General Description

This breed is a medium sized breed. It has a round head and a long rectangle muzzle with a big black nose at the tip. The Otterhound has two large ears hanging by their head and two black eyes set apart. The breed has a muscular body and a wide chest that touches the shoulders. They have strong limbs and legs with big paws. Their tails is very long and almost reaches the ground. They have a bush like fur all over their body and are mainly found in red, black, red and black, fawn and almost all colour varieties.

Character

The Otterhound is very calm in nature. This breed is always good to strangers and at the same time they are never aggressive. The Otterhounds are difficult to train as they listen only to one. This breed is always keen to please its master. They do not bark much as other hounds. It is a very kind, loving, gentle and it has a balanced temper. They are very well mannered and very good to children. Otterhound is an excellent family dog. They love to get attention from elders as well as children. They are very energetic and loves a lot of exercise. Early training classes are required as they are independent in nature. This breed has a bad habit of not obeying order. They do what they think is right. They take their own decisions. If they are provided proper training they become manageable by the age of 2. They are dominant on other dogs and dogs belonging to the same sex..

Temperament

Otterhounds are very gentle, sweet and well behaved in nature. They are a bit independent. They do obey orders of all but they may listen to only one master. They do what they think is right. But it can be managed if early training classes are provided. They are very dominating over other dogs and the blood hounds should not be left alone with small species. This breed is very good to children but suspicious about strangers. it has a giant size and powerful appearance.

Training

This breed is extremely intelligent and very much eager to learn things. But it is also stubborn at the same time so harsh training methods are not recommended. Consistent training is required. The Otterhounds get trained slowly but if they are trained properly then they would prove to be great dogs.

Health

Otterhounds may be affected by bloat and hip dysplasia. They should be fed with care as they might have stomach problems. Their average life span is 10-12 and average litter rate is 8-10.