Otterhound The Hound Dog Overview
The Otterhound the hound dog is a strong, energetic and sensitive hunting dog. This active but boisterous dog is quite challenging in training. Its hunting nature impels the dog to track the mammals, once the dog has found trail, it is almost impossible to distract from its quarry. It will however give chase to small animals though the Otterhounds are not developed to kill its target. The dog is eager to be applied for tasks and passionate to hunt, sniff and discover. The dog can accurately follow the trails of otters. Although stubborn, the dog is very friendly, loving and caring to family, remains playful and lively and gentle to children. The Otterhounds are not said to be the traditional pets, as these were not used as family companion in its early periods, however, the dog is quite restrained and could be trained for house companion.
Otterhound The Hound Dog Information | |
|---|---|
| Name | Otterhound |
| Other Names | Otterhound Dog |
| Origin | England, United Kingdom |
| Build Type | Large |
| Life Cycle | 10-14 years |
| Group | Hound |
| Character | Even-tempered, Amiable, Boisterous, Sharp |
| Height | Male:20-27 inches Female: 20-25 inches |
| Weight | Male: 60-90 pounds Female: 50-85 pounds |
| Color | Black, Blue, Grey, Wheaten, Cream, Liver, Tan and combination |
| Average price | 700 US$ |
Qualities | |
|---|---|
| Good with Kids | ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆ |
| Child Friendly | ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆ |
| Cat Friendly | ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆ |
| Dog Friendly | ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆ |
| Trainability | ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆ |
| Shedding | ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆ |
| Watchdog | ★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ |
| Intelligence | ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆ |
| Grooming | ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆ |
| Popularity | ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆ |
| Adaptability | ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆ |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
England is said to be the known origin of Otterhound . The old breed is said to be developed by mutual crossing of Bloodhounds, Rough-haired Terriers, Harriers and Griffons, possibly. The need of such dog arose in that time when fishermen realized that the otters are effecting adversely on fisheries. These dogs were used in the form of packs to hunt the otters, thereafter name of breed was established as Otterhounds. The demand of this breed reduced in 20th century meanwhile, the breed itself became quite rare. The international wild animal’s protective law listed the otters in protected species list, as a result the number of Otterhounds dropped to dangerously low in 1979. The breed is survived by some volunteer breeders who encourage the development of this dog. The Otterhound is still found very rare; however the breed is revived and no more danger of its non-existence. Current breed is being used for hunting of mammal animals including raccoon, mink and bear. The breed has extremely high sensitivity in sensing the mammal animal’s scent and suitable for drag-hunting, tracking and searching missions.
Without exaggeration, the Otterhound the hound dog is an energetic, strong and high will-powered dog which can run steadily for very long distances without being tired. The dog’s build is sturdy, solid, heavy-boned and strong muscled. This dog is of a little less height than length, projection is rectangular. Outer coat is moderately rough and inner is wooly and slightly oily, the whole combination is weather protective and suitable for any harsh environment. The muzzle along with nose is large enough making the dog most sensitive in scent sensing ability. This breed of athletic structure has large feet with strong legs to make effective grip on any type of terrain slippery, muddy or rough. Its temperament is amiable and steady which can clearly depicted by its expressions. The dog is equally well on ground and in waters.
The Otterhound the hound dog is capable of running on ground and swimming in water bodies. They are big and rough coated. They are playful, easygoing and hand-shaking with strangers, they welcome new peoples by wagging their tails. Greatly self-sufficient, these dogs need not dictation in their mission. Not ideal for watchdog duties, rather it will ignore most of your commands and will continue to pursue the chain of action, it has decided itself. The breed is not suited for new dog lovers or first time dog owners. This creature is very much aggressive towards non-canine animals, the pets in your house, even brought up together should not be trust with Otterhounds. Rodents would be in more trouble as your cat could run and escape at least.
The barking of the Otterhounds is simply a panic for owner, they bark extensively, loudly and sharply to make one’s patience at its end. Another challenge for all owners, the dog is messy and remains dirty, it assumed the water bucket as the pond. Jumping in water and rolling in mud looks its unfinished desire. After getting wet and muddy, the dog will not hesitate running right past you into the house and all interior decor will be in danger.
The Otterhounds are quite a challenge for their handlers and are very difficult to train. They are self made authorities and will decide their own. They may refuse to participate in training activities. Reward based and well motivated training with short sessions would be fruitful. Training activities should be regular and consistent. The dog would knock over your guard and will try to escape, remember do not allow the dog to move a meter; rather it will take a mile or more. The ideal time for socialization and house-train is its puppyhood.
- The Otterhound is very active and need a lot of exercise. An open area bounded by fence is good. The best exercise could be swimming.
- The Otterhounds are extensive barkers, they do not suspect and inquire strangers and will allow them to enter in the house, therefore, they are not watchdogs or guard dogs.
- Always keep in leash and hold tight when in open area otherwise it will start trailing some scent and would go miles away.
- The field of action of this dog lies outdoors; however, they can stay indoors with family.
- A six feet high fence is recommended, as they can jump over five feet fence easily.
- The Otterhounds are extensive eaters as well and can locate eatables easily with its ability of sending. Keep your cabinets locked and monitor its diet for any possible medical problem.
- The Otterhound is poor groomed, you need to invest more money, time and resources for big dogs.
