The Breed

Is an Otterhound for you?

Dumfriesshire Otterhound Hunting (DOH) pack circa 1937. DOHs heavily influenced the modern breed in the US.

History & Purpose

Any number of hounds were used to hunt otter in ancient times. The Otterhound we know and love probably originated as a cross of other breeds in the 1700's and 1800's. The keen nose of the Otterhound, derives predominantly from the Bloodhound, which was bred into the Otterhound line now and again over many years. Otterhound breeders and pack Masters were always interested in improving the tracking ability of the Otterhound, its main purpose in hunting the otter.

J. C. Carrick's Stanley circa. 1872 shows the classic pose of the Otterhound resting on its haunches once it has hit on the scent of an otter.

Why an Otterhound?

The demeanor of the modern Otterhound is friendly, fun-loving, and often boisterous. These qualities hark back to the various breeds that went into the Otterhound over the centuries. One of the goals for breeding the modern Otterhound has been to promote this friendly disposition.

The Otterhound was originally bred for only pack otter hunting, however the modern-day Otterhound has adapted to the indoors and do make good family pets. In fact, some of the Otterhounds bred in the Cumbria area of Britain in the late 1800's and early 1900's were kept indoors as pets rather than being relegated to outside kennels as pure hunting pack hounds.

To this day, Otterhounds thrive on rigorous exercise, similar to that of an all day otter hunt. If nothing else a fenced yard (no less than 5 feet) with space to run is needed because as with any scent hound the saying goes, "When the nose turns on, the ears turn off". They often love to be wet and muddy, so owners must have a good sense of humor when living with an Otterhound! And owners must commit to weekly grooming to keep their coats clean and free of dead hair.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF WAYNE KLINE