Overview
Otterhounds hunted in packs along British rivers for centuries, until otter hunting was banned in the 1970s and the breed nearly vanished with it. There are now only a few hundred in the world. The dog that remains is large, rough-coated, webbed-footed and oily enough to swim in cold water for hours.
They are good-humoured, boisterous and friendly towards people and dogs alike, with a booming voice and a clumsy, affectionate manner. They are also hounds to the core: the nose rules, and a walker who forgets that will spend the afternoon looking for the dog.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour and a half a day of steady exercise suits a fit adult, and they are happiest on a long, rambling route with water in it. Pace is unhurried; this is a dog that worked all day at a trot, not a sprinter.
Puppies grow fast and heavy, so keep young dogs to short walks and off hard ground. Older hounds slow down but still want their river.
On the walk
- Recall: Poor. Once the nose is down, the ears are off. Off-lead only in fully enclosed areas, and a long line everywhere else.
- Water: They will swim in anything, including canals and fast rivers. Check the banks and exits first and keep the dog on the lead near dangerous water.
- Voice: Deep, musical and carrying. Otterhounds bay when excited and may do it for the whole walk if there is a scent. Choose routes where that will not cause complaints.
- Other dogs: Pack-bred and generally amiable, with a boisterous play style. Fine for group walks with dogs that do not mind being bounced.
Tips for professional walkers
- Carry two large towels and expect the coat to hold water for a long time.
- Check the beard and ears after a swim and let the owner know if either smells.
- Walk away from busy roads; a hound that has caught a scent will cross one without looking.
What to ask the owner
- Is swimming allowed, and are there any stretches of water the owner wants avoided?
- Any hip, elbow or bloat concerns, and how long should the dog rest after eating?
- How does the dog react if it picks up a scent on the lead, and what works to break it?