Otterhound
Otterhound is a scent-hound, that originated in England. It is one of the rarest breeds in the world with a population of only several hundred.
Breed Profile
Height
24 - 27
Inches
Weight
90 - 120
Pounds
Life Span
10 – 13
Years
Health
health
Epilepsy
What is it?
It is the recurrent, unprovoked seizures resulting from an abnormality of the brain. It is the most common neurological disorder found in dogs which affects about 1% of the entire population
Clinical signs
The clinical symptoms of this condition may include -
Collapsing
Jerking
Muscle twitching
Loss of consciousness
Excessive drooling
Tongue chewing
Foaming at the mouth
Treatment
There are some anti-epileptic drugs available that can make most of the dogs, seizure-free. And it is very much possible that the dog will be on medication for the rest of its life.
Eligible vet bill
$500
*Hypothetical reimbursement examples illustrate reimbursement of an eligible vet bill at the noted reimbursement rate, assuming the annual deductible had already been satisfied and the annual coverage limit has not yet been met. Annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit and coverage limits, and exclusions may apply. Eligibility may vary. Visit https://www.spotpetinsurance.ca/sample-policy for full terms. For Canada enrollments only, reimbursement rate is based on the pet's age.
health
Hip or Elbow Dysplasia
What is it?
This genetic health issue is the one where the hip or elbow joints loosen up which causes dysfunction and pain. Over time, this may result in arthritis, muscle atrophy, and limitations in mobility.
Clinical signs
Staying in bed instead of going out
Decreased range of motion
Difficulty or reluctance in climbing stairs, rising, jumping, or running
Loss of muscle mass in the thighs
Noticeable enlargement of the shoulder muscles as they compensate for the hind end
Flinches when the lower back muscles are touched
Treatment
All cases of hip dysplasia may not be preventable but proper care can reduce the probability or if noticed can try and contain the impact. The measures include
Chiropractic therapy
Supplements for joints
Anti-inflammatory medications
surgery
Affected hounds should not be bred from and most Otterhounds have a very poor hip score.
Eligible vet bill
$2,000
*Hypothetical reimbursement examples illustrate reimbursement of an eligible vet bill at the noted reimbursement rate, assuming the annual deductible had already been satisfied and the annual coverage limit has not yet been met. Annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit and coverage limits, and exclusions may apply. Eligibility may vary. Visit https://www.spotpetinsurance.ca/sample-policy for full terms. For Canada enrollments only, reimbursement rate is based on the pet's age.
Personality
Rare
With only over 600 of them present around the world, Otterhounds are quite rare
Big
With over 100 pounds in weight and a height of almost 28-30 inches, these dogs are huge and heavy
Affectionate
Although bred for hunting, these dogs can be quite affectionate and loving making them great house pets
Lifetime Care
Coat
It has a medium-length, curly or wavy coat
Colors
A variety of colors are available in this breed including black, white, ash, fawn, black merle, and brown.
Hypoallergenic
No
Grooming
The grooming requirements are very minimal for Otterhounds, which include an occasional bath, combing and brushing and regular nail and teeth care.
Training
The highly active and intelligent breed with an eager-to-please nature, Otterhounds are very much trainable
The breed was originally bred for hunting in medieval England. Otter-hunting was a thing back then. But both World Wars took a massive toll on the breed, where many packs were put down. The otter-hunting sport, although getting resumed after the wars, never gained as much popularity, leading to a decrease in the rate of breeding for these dogs. Thanks to the dedicated breeders, the breed has survived.
The Griffon Vendeen, the Griffon Nivernais, the Chien Fauve de Bretagne, the Bloodhound, and the Grand Bleu de Gascogne were the breeds involved in the development of this hound. Sadly, most of them are extinct today.
Otterhounds are one of the best swimming dogs. They are also one of the best scent dogs around, with a keen sense of smell which is used even for underwater pursuits for great distances.
Otterhound: Introduction to the Breed
Despite having several breeds as a source of development, the Otterhounds or the OHs do have a distinguished look. Some of the unique physical traits include -
Big webbed feet
Broad chest with powerful shoulders
Large black nose
Oily-rough double coat
Long striding steps
Otterhound is best suited for:
Experienced pet owners
People with active lifestyles who can spend enough time with the dog
Houses with fenced yards
Things to watch out for before deciding to own an Otterhound:
These dogs can be described in one word as joyful. They would love to play with your kids around the yard. But because of the huge size and high energy, keeping an eye on them while they are playing with your young kids is advised.
OHs would love to play, eat, and chill with you all the time. But there will be times when they would want to do their own thing as they are independent in nature. But not to worry, as they will probably join you on the couch a while later for your Netflix party.
These dogs can’t be left alone for a long time as they need humans around and do develop separation anxiety when left alone for a long time.
The strong scent skill is good until it is used for sniffing out treats and eating the entire box when you’re not around. Make sure that the treats and other possibly toxic human foods are kept away from reach.
Another con of a strong nose is its tendency to wander off in search of a strong smell. It is hence advised to always keep them on a leash and keep watching.
They might do well in an apartment with daily walks in the park but they’re louder than life barking that will leave you in discomfort at times. They are very vocal and this can be a bad thing at times as you don’t want your neighbors complaining.
What should an Otterhound eat?
For any dog owner, it is very important to keep a close look at what the dog eats and not as it is directly linked to its energy levels, contact with diseases, etc. In the case of Otterhounds, a high-nutrient vet recommended dry puppy food would do when given in 3-4 small meals rather than 1 big meal. There is no special diet that an OH should be given, just to ensure that enough nutrients are fed to support its high energy levels and playfulness.
Conclusion
Otterhound is a very rare, playful, lively, active, sporty, and very vocal breed. You would feel the presence all the time of these dogs in your house. Just make sure you take care of the food and hydration departments to supplement their high energy levels and you’ll have a very loving and affectionate dog in your house.
Happy Mood and Health to your Doggo and lots of Love and Licks to you!
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