What Were Otterhounds Breed For

Othounds are a breed of dog that were developed to hunt otters, which were once a common prey animal in England.

With their keen sense of smell, webbed feet, and water-resistant coat, Otterhounds were uniquely suited to the task of tracking down these elusive creatures in their aquatic habitats.

Today, although otter hunting is no longer practiced, Otterhounds remains a fascinating breed with a rich history and many unique characteristics that make them beloved pets and loyal companions.

History of Otterhounds

The history of Otterhounds can be traced back to medieval England, where they were developed as a hunting breed.

During this time, otters were a common prey animal and were hunted extensively for their fur, meat, and oil.

Otterhounds were bred specifically for the task of tracking down these elusive creatures in the wetlands and waterways where they lived.

The first mention of Otterhounds in written records dates back to the reign of Henry II in the 12th century.

However, it wasn’t until the 1700s and 1800s that the breed really began to take shape.

Breeders crossed various hound breeds to create a dog with the perfect combination of scenting ability, endurance, and swimming prowess that was required to hunt otters successfully.

By the early 1800s, Otterhounds had become an established breed with a loyal following among hunters and nobility.

They were prized for their exceptional tracking abilities and enjoyed wide popularity until otter hunting was banned in Britain in the 1970s.

Today, Otterhounds are a rare breed, with only a few hundred dogs registered worldwide.

They remain popular with hunters in some parts of the world but are most commonly kept as beloved pets and companions by dog lovers who appreciate their unique characteristics and fascinating history.

What Were Otterhounds Breed For

Otterhounds were bred for the specific purpose of hunting otters, which were once a popular prey animal in England.

Otters were hunted for their fur, meat, and oil, which were used for medicinal and culinary purposes. Otterhounds were uniquely suited to the task of tracking down these elusive creatures in their aquatic habitats.

These large, robust dogs were developed with a keen sense of smell, webbed feet, and a water-resistant coat that made them ideal for working in wetlands and waterways.

They were trained to follow the scent of otters, both on land and in water, and to use their powerful jaws to hold the prey until the hunter arrived.

How Long Have Otterhounds Been Used For Hunting?

Otterhounds have been used for hunting from the 12th century till 1970 when otter hunting was banned.

However, the breed as we know it today didn’t really take shape until the 1700s and 1800s, when breeders began crossing various hound breeds to create the perfect dog for otter hunting.

By the early 1800s, Otterhounds had become an established breed with a loyal following among hunters and nobility.

While otter hunting is no longer practiced, Otterhounds remain a beloved breed with many unique characteristics that make them ideal companions for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

What Makes Otterhounds Good at Hunting Otters?

Otterhounds are good at hunting otters due to their keen sense of smell, which allows them to track their quarry through water, land, and air.

They also have webbed feet, which make them excellent swimmers and allow them to navigate through the wetlands and waterways where otters live.

In addition, Otterhounds have a water-resistant coat that helps to keep them warm and dry while working in the water.

Their long, shaggy hair provides insulation against the cold, while their double coat helps shed water and protect them from the elements.

Finally, their strong jaws and tenacious nature make them capable of holding prey until the hunter arrives.

Overall, the unique combination of scenting ability, endurance, swimming prowess, and tenacity makes Otterhounds ideal for the task of hunting otters.

While otter hunting is no longer practiced, these traits continue to make them valued companions for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

What Are Otterhounds Used For Today

Today, Otterhounds are primarily kept as beloved pets and companions due to their friendly and loyal nature, their unique physical characteristics, and their love of outdoor activities.

Otterhounds are highly valued for their energy, endurance, and swimming abilities, which make them ideal for a variety of outdoor sports and activities, such as hiking, camping, and water sports.

They are also great family dogs due to their affectionate and gentle nature, although they do require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, Otterhounds were originally bred for their exceptional hunting abilities, which made them highly valued by hunters in England.

Although otter hunting is no longer a popular pastime, Otterhounds remain a unique breed with many amazing traits that make them ideal pets for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors.

Whether you are interested in the breed’s history, its physical characteristics, or its many talents, Otterhounds are sure to captivate and delight dog lovers everywhere.