-
Step 1
Look at the general appearance of the Otterhound. This is a large, roughly coated dog with a lot of strength and dignity. The males are about 27 inches at the shoulders and weigh about 115 pounds. The females are about 24 inches at the shoulders and weigh about 80 pounds. It has a rectangular build; when measured from the point of the withers to the rear, it is a bit longer than high. The tail is of medium length and curves upward, but not over the back.
-
Step 2
Make sure the large head is rather narrow and measures 11 to 12 inches from the occiput to the tip of the nose. If the Otterhound is a bit shorter or taller at the withers than 26 inches, the head measurements will be slightly different based on the height of the dog. The deeply set eyes help give this breed an open and sweet-tempered expression. The eyes vary in color, depending on coat color. If the dog has a black nose and eye rim, the eyes will be darker. The ears are long and folded, and set below eye level. They hang near the head, and when the leather is extended forward, it reaches the tip of the nose. The large nose is dark with wide nostrils and should be completely pigmented.
-
Step 3
Check to be sure that the powerful neck meets with the angulated shoulders in one smooth motion. It needs to be long enough to allow the Otterhound to follow a trail. The powerful shoulders lead to strong-boned legs and large front feet. The webbed feet are compact with arched toes. The first and second thighs are well-muscled and lead to low hocks. The rear feet are the same as the front feet.
-
Step 4
Feel the dense, double coat. The outer coat is 2 to 4 inches long. The undercoat is water resistant, short and wooly. The coat may be any color or combination of colors. The nose color matches the coat color and is always fully pigmented, no matter what color it is.
