Otterhound

Overall description of the breed

The Otterhound has deep roots in the United Kingdom, more specifically in England. Otterhounds were bred primarily for their hunting skills, particularly for tracking otters, a practice that is now banned. Appreciated for their formidable sense of smell and remarkable physical abilities, they are the result of crosses between French hunting dogs and English hounds.

After otter hunting was banned, the British exploited its tracking skills for other terrestrial and semi-aquatic game. Thanks to its webbed feet and incredible stamina, the Otterhound is equally at home in water or on land. The Otterhound is still used for these purposes today. The breed was officially recognised by the FCI on 12 September 1974, and its current standard was published on 13 October 2010.

Otterhounds are large, high-legged dogs with a light, elongated body combined with strong, dense, powerful bones. The body is balanced, evenly structured and well muscled, slightly longer than it is tall, forming a rectangle.

The topline is broad and straight through to the loins, with well sprung ribs. The shoulders are strong, the chest deep and the thorax well developed, resting on exceptionally vigorous, swift legs. The head is relatively narrow, with a discreetly rounded skull. The jaws are strong and chiselled, combined with a medium-length muzzle and a clearly marked but not excessive stop.

The ears are long and hang down the cheeks, and the tail is thick at the base and tapers towards the tip, completing the athletic appearance. The coat is long, dense and rough-textured, with a thick undercoat that provides excellent protection against the UK's wet climate. Colours accepted by the breed standard include grey, wheaten, sable, red and blue. The coat may be plain or have white markings.

Otterhounds tend to be independent by nature, which makes them rather undemonstrative. However, they are strongly attached to their family. Selected as a working dog for decades, they have not lost their tracking skills or their remarkable physical qualities.

For the Otterhound's well-being, it's essential that it gets plenty of exercise every day. Running, walking and following trails are an integral part of its DNA. Without regular exercise, Otters can become unstable and destructive indoors. Intelligent and versatile, they enjoy playing with friends and family, especially if they use their sense of smell or tracking skills, which are essential for their balance.

Sociable with other dogs, they are welcoming to strangers, but lack the protective instinct to be an effective watchdog. Active, hard-working and particularly energetic, they make excellent hunting companions and pleasant everyday companions.

They weigh around 43 to 50 kg (95 to 110 lbs) for males and 30 to 36 kg (66 to 79 lbs) for females, with a height at the withers of 65 to 69 cm (25.5" to 27") for males and 60 to 63 cm (23.5 to 25") for females.