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- Otterhounds require a great deal of exercise, and not just chasing a ball in the backyard. A vigorous daily workout of jogging or swimming for several miles is needed to keep him physically and mentally healthy. However, because of the adverse effect of strenuous exercise on growing joints and bones, you should limit exercise among puppies and adolescent Otterhounds (and among those with hip dysplasia). Swimming is the best exercise for younger dogs, because the risk of joint injury is minimal.
- Otterhounds are enthusiastic and loud barkers. But don't expect yours to be a guard dog--he's far too friendly for that.
- Don't allow your Otterhound off-leash in unfenced areas; you never know when he might catch an enticing scent and run off.
- Otterhounds enjoy being outdoors, but they're best suited to living daily life inside the house with their families.
- A fenced yard is mandatory. Otterhounds have been known to jump fences as high as five feet, so be sure the fencing is at least six feet tall.
- The Otterhound is affectionate, but he's also independent. He won't follow you around, begging for attention. He'll probably greet you when you get home, and then--if he doesn't need exercise--he'll return to his favorite snoozing spot.
- The Otterhound loves food and can become obese if you don't monitor his diet. Also, his incredible sense of smell enables him to locate those special goodies you've hidden in the cabinets, and his size and cleverness enable him to find a way to get at them.
- Big dog, bigger expense. Everything for a big dog costs more, from food to grooming to veterinary care.
- To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill, or pet store. Look for a reputable breeder who tests her breeding dogs to make sure they're free of genetic diseases that they might pass onto the puppies, and that they have sound temperaments.
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