Otterhound

The Otterhound is a large British scenthound developed for hunting otters along rivers, streams, and marshy country. That work required a rough oily coat, strong swimming ability, large feet, stamina, and a deep voice that could carry through a pack. Otterhounds may be grizzled, wheaten, black and tan, or other hound colors, with a shaggy head and a loose, powerful stride. Since otter hunting ended in Britain, the breed has become rare and survives through companion, show, and preservation breeding.

Life with an Otterhound can be muddy, loud, sociable, and funny in a very hound-like way. Secure fencing and leash work matter because a scent trail may outrank a casual recall. The coat needs regular checks for mats, debris, and skin trouble, while ears need attention after wet work or bathing. Exercise should protect joints in puppies and keep adults fit without expecting instant obedience from a dog bred for persistence. Breeders track hips, elbows, bloat risk, and genetic diversity. Prospective owners should value the breed's nature, not only its rarity.

Colors: Apricot, Bicolor, Black, Black and Cream, Black and Tan, Black and White, Black Mask, Blue, Blue and Tan, Blue Merle, Blue Roan, Blue Tick, Brindle, Brown, Brown and Tan, Brown and White, Chocolate, Cream, Dapple, Domino, Fawn, Fawn and White, Gold, Gray, Grizzle, Harlequin, Irish Marked, Liver, Liver and Tan, Liver Mask, Mantle, Mask, Merle, Mottled, Parti-Color, Piebald, Red, Red and White, Red Merle, Red Roan, Red Tick, Reverse Brindle, Roan, Sable, Saddle, Silver, Speckled, Spotted, Tan, Ticked, Tricolor, Tuxedo, Wheaten, White, Yellow