Characteristics of the Otterhound

A cross between the Bloodhound with rough haired Terriers, Griffons and Harriers, the Otterhound is a rather old breed. References of the Otterhounds in England date as far back as the 12th century. King John, who reigned between 1199 to 1216, was titled, "Master of Otterhounds," along with Richard III, Charles III and Elizabeth I was the first "Lady Master of Otterhounds."

The Otterhound will dive into the water and seek its prey and its den, for hours without stopping. Packs of Otterhounds were used to hunt otters, as a way of keeping them from destroying needed food sources, and later hunted as a sport.

There were more than 500 hounds in 24 packs that hunted otters in the late 1800's. However, the Otterhound population began to diminish in the 20th century, as well as its popularity. In 1978 otter hunting became banned, due to water pollution and became a protected species. The Otterhounds existence was threatened.

Otterhounds first appeared in the United States in the 1900's. In Claremont, Oklahoma in 1907, at an AKC show, six Otterhounds were exhibited and there registrations were recorded. The first serious Otterhound dog breeding program in the US started in 1937 by veterinarian Dr. Hugh Mouat. In 1960, the Otterhound Club of America was founded, and in 1981 the breeds first National Specialty was held.

In 2006 in Britain only 51 Otterhounds were born, they are now considered the most endangered dog breed. Experts view the Otterhound as more endangered then the Giant Panda. There are fewer than 1000 hounds world wide, with between 350 and 400 in the US.

The Otterhound is a strong, large rough-coated dog. The outer coat varies from 3 to 6 inches with a thick woolly undercoat, to protect the dog from cold weather. The most common variation of color comes in black or tan grizzly, although Otterhounds come in many color combinations.

Most hounds do not shed a great deal, so a weekly brushing would do just fine. The toenails should be trimmed at least once a month, and regular teeth cleaning. Unless the dog is being used for showing, frequent baths are not necessary, however there ears need to be checked and cleaned on a regular basis.

Males range from 95 to 115 pounds and 26 to 28 inches at the shoulders. Females weigh between 65 to 90 pounds and between 24 to 26 inches at the shoulders. The ears are long and low hanging, and there feet are webbed for swimming, like many other pack hounds.

Otterhounds can be very bright dogs. They are bold, friendly, cheerful, affectionate, devoted and independent. They like to roam about and sniff around. They also have a tendency to snore.

Otterhounds can also be very stubborn, and training can take some practice and patience. Training make take longer with this breed than others, but is successful. Socialization is just as important as is obedience training. Reliable reports claim that there are Otterhounds who have learned to open their crate doors, house doors, refrigerators, kitchen cabinets and drawers.

Some of the Otterhound lines are prone to hip dysplasia, thrombocytopenia, hemophilia and bloat. They can gain weight easy, it is important to not over feed them.

The Otterhound life span is between 10 to 13 years, although a few have been reported to have lived 15 or more years.

Sources:

www.dogbreedinfo.com

www.akc.org

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

http://clubs.akc.org/ohca