The Otterhound is a large dog breed known for its distinctive shaggy coat, webbed feet, and keen sense of smell. Originally bred for hunting otters, they are strong swimmers. They have a friendly, boisterous nature and require plenty of exercise. They are a rare breed, with a small population worldwide.

United Kingdom

The Otterhound was originally bred in England and is adapted to temperate climates typical of the British Isles. This region experiences moderate temperatures with a fair amount of annual rainfall, which supports a variety of woodland, grassland, and freshwater ecosystems.

Otterhounds were specifically bred for hunting otters, which requires them to be excellent swimmers. They are adapted to environments near rivers, streams, and other freshwater bodies where they can scent and pursue their quarry. Their physical characteristics are well-suited for aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats, comprising dense coat for insulation in water and webbed feet for effective swimming.