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Otterhound
Hound breed from England
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Otterhound
The Otterhound is a giant, shaggy-coated scent hound from England, originally bred for hunting otters. It has a double, waterproof coat and webbed feet, reflecting its historical work in water. Temperament is described as friendly, gentle, independent, energetic, and amiable. Individual behavior varies, but these traits are commonly noted. The breed is recognized by some registries but not universally; status varies by registry. Estimated adult weight ranges from 43 to 54 kg for both sexes, height from 66 to 74 cm, and lifespan from 10 to 13 years. Energy level is high (4/5), trainability moderate (3/5), grooming needs high (4/5), and shedding moderate (3/5). Suitability with children is rated 4/5, with other dogs 4/5, but apartment living is low (2/5) due to size and energy.
Quick facts
Otterhound at a glance
Sizegiant
Breed groupHound
OriginEngland
Lifespan10–13 years
Male weight43–54 kilogram
Female weight43–54 kilogram
Male height66–74 centimetre
Female height66–74 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Otterhound was developed in medieval England for the purpose of hunting otters. Its history is tied to water work, with physical traits such as webbed feet and an oily double coat that made it well-suited for swimming and tracking in wet environments. The breed was perfected over centuries for its powerful scenting ability and endurance. Otter hunting was banned in 1978, after which the Otterhound became nearly extinct and is now considered among the rarest British breeds. The exact timeline of its development and recognition is not fully documented, and its current recognition status varies by registry.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
43–54 kilogramAdult weight66–74 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesDouble, ShaggyCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Friendlygentleindependentenergeticamiable
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Higher coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Otterhound-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Otterhound puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight43–54 kilogramAdult female weight43–54 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of an Otterhound?
The Otterhound is a giant breed. Estimated adult weight ranges from 43 to 54 kg for both males and females, and height from 66 to 74 cm. Estimated lifespan is 10 to 13 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the Otterhound's temperament like?
Commonly described temperaments include friendly, gentle, independent, energetic, and amiable. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every Otterhound will display all these traits consistently.
How much exercise does an Otterhound need?
The Otterhound has a high energy level (rated 4 out of 5). It likely requires substantial daily exercise, but specific needs are not detailed in the supplied facts. Its history as a hunting dog suggests it benefits from activities that engage its scenting and swimming abilities.
What are the grooming requirements for an Otterhound?
Grooming needs are high (rated 4 out of 5). The breed has a double, shaggy coat that is waterproof. Regular brushing and maintenance are likely necessary to prevent matting and manage shedding, which is moderate (rated 3 out of 5).
Is an Otterhound suitable for apartment living?
Apartment suitability is low (rated 2 out of 5). Given its giant size and high energy level, it is likely better suited to a home with space and access to outdoor areas.
How does the Otterhound get along with children and other dogs?
Child suitability is rated 4 out of 5, and dog compatibility is also 4 out of 5, suggesting generally good interactions. However, individual temperament varies, and supervision with young children is always recommended.
Where does the Otterhound originate from?
The Otterhound originates from England. It was developed in medieval times for otter hunting, but specific dates or historical events beyond that are not provided in the supplied facts.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.