Fetch Finder
At a glance
| Energy level | |
|---|---|
| Shedding | |
| Grooming needs | |
| Apartment-friendly | |
| Handles cold | |
| Affectionate / cuddly | |
| Good with kids | |
| Good for first-time owners | |
| Easy to train | |
| Good with other dogs | |
| Good with cats | |
| OK being left alone | |
| Reliable off-leash | |
| Protective / watchdog | |
| Barking | |
| Drooling |
Great for
- Families with space
- Swimmers
- Cold climates
Watch out for
- Loud bay
- Messy drinker and drooler
- Stubborn
Daily care
Exercise: About an hour a day.
Grooming: Brush weekly.
Cold weather: Rough, oily double coat handles cold water well.
*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.
Gear for a Otterhound
Some links are affiliate links: if you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
- FoodLarge breed dog food
Formulas made for large breeds match their energy needs and kibble size. Look for "complete and balanced" (AAFCO) on the bag, and ask your vet what's right for your dog.
See options on Amazon - Crate54-inch dog crate
A 54" crate fits most adult Otterhounds (up to about 115 lb). Choose one with a divider so it grows with a puppy.
See options on Amazon - Leash and harnessNo-pull harness and 6-foot leash
A front-clip harness helps with pulling while your dog learns leash manners.
See options on Amazon - ToysPuzzle and snuffle toys
Food puzzles keep a calmer dog's mind busy without a lot of running.
See options on Amazon - GroomingBristle or rubber grooming brush
A quick weekly brush keeps the coat clean and shiny.
See options on Amazon - WinterPaw balm
Protects paws from road salt and ice, even on cold-tolerant breeds.
See options on Amazon - BedOrthopedic dog bed
Big dogs are prone to joint problems; a supportive foam bed helps.
See options on Amazon
Find a Otterhound near you
We're building a list of trusted Otterhound rescues, breeders and trainers. Rescues are listed first.
Listings coming soon. In the meantime:
- Search adoptable dogs near you on Petfinder
- AKC's Otterhound page, which links to breed club rescue networks
Run a Otterhound rescue, training or grooming business? Get listed free.
Not sure a Otterhound is right for you? Take the 3-minute quiz to see which breeds fit your home and lifestyle.
Take the breed quizSimilar breeds
Large · 55–80 lb👪 Great family dogLabrador RetrieverFriendly, eager to please and easy to train. Labs are one of the best all-around family dogs, as long as they get daily exercise.
Large · 55–75 lb👪 Great family dogGolden RetrieverGentle, patient and famously friendly. Goldens are great with kids and other pets, but bring a lot of hair and energy.
Large · 50–90 lb👪 Good family dogGerman ShepherdSmart, loyal and protective. German Shepherds thrive with an experienced owner who gives them a job, training and lots of exercise.