Otterhound Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Otterhound
The Otterhound is a large, rough-coated British scenthound originally bred to hunt otters along rivers, working in packs both on land and in water. Big-boned and powerful with a shaggy, oily double coat, webbed feet and an exceptional nose, it is built for endurance in cold water and rugged terrain. Otterhounds are amiable, boisterous and even-tempered, with a deep, resonant bay and an independent, good-humored streak typical of pack hounds. Affectionate and easygoing with family, they can be single-minded when following a scent. One of the rarest breeds in the world, the Otterhound needs space, exercise and coat care.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
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Where this breed shines
- Friendly, good-natured and sociable
- Exceptional swimmer with a superb nose
- Gets along well with other dogs
- Even-tempered and affectionate with family
Things to consider
- Very rare, with limited breeder availability
- Loud, resonant bay and strong scent drive
- Shaggy coat needs regular grooming
- Large, boisterous dog requiring space and exercise
History
The Otterhound is an ancient English scenthound refined over centuries to hunt otters that competed with fishermen, with references dating to medieval times. When otter hunting was banned in the United Kingdom in the 1970s to protect declining otter populations, the breed lost its purpose and numbers collapsed. It remains critically rare and is recognized by the AKC's Hound Group.
Temperament
Otterhounds are friendly, boisterous and affectionate, with the easygoing, sociable nature of a pack hound. They are independent and driven by scent, which can make recall unreliable and training a patient endeavor. Their loud, musical voice and love of water reflect their working heritage.
Questions to ask a Otterhound breeder
- Are the parents hip- and elbow-evaluated?
- Have the lines been screened for bleeding disorders?
- What is the coefficient of inbreeding given the rarity?
- How are puppies socialized to family life?
Health considerations to discuss
Hip and elbow dysplasia. Large-breed orthopedic screening is important.
Gastric torsion (bloat). The deep chest raises bloat risk; discuss feeding management.
Glanzmann thrombasthenia (bleeding disorder). A hereditary clotting disorder occurs in the breed; DNA testing is available.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: American Kennel Club - Otterhound · The Kennel Club — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Otterhound litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Otterhound puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Otterhound listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How can I tell if a Otterhound breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.