Otterhound

 The Otterhound is a large rough-coated dog with a shaggy face and bushy eyebrows. The head underneath the hair is large and deep, but wide, somewhat like a Bloodhound's. The neck is muscular, with an abundant dewlap. The eyes are dark with rosy conjunctiva. The ears are long and dangling and the tail curves up like a saber. The nose is large and dark, either black or liver depending on the color of the dog. The lips are thick and pendant. Under the 3-6 inch (8-16 cm.) long, oily outer coat is a dense wooly undercoat for protection in frigid water. All hound colorations are acceptable, but the coat usually comes in grizzle or wheaten with black markings. Like many other pack hounds, the feet are webbed for swimming.

The Otterhound is a bold and exuberant dog. Friendly, cheerful, loving and devoted, he makes a good companion. This breed is quite good with children, but may be clumsy with small children and therefore is not recommended for infants. They are a friend to all other dogs, family pets, children and people in general, however it will chase non-canine animals (it can get along with cats in the family). They are affectionate, intelligent, and independent with a mind of their own. Because the Otterhound was never traditionally kept as a pet, it is not among the most responsive of breeds. Training the Otterhound takes patience, because it tends to be quite willful. The best results are achieved with a soft but consistent hand. Use the classic "Iron fist in a velvet glove" approach when training this dog. The Otterhound is a low-key dog that can function as a quiet companion. They like to roam and sniff and have a tendency to snore. Otterhound have a harmonious, boisterous and powerful voice that carries for long distances. It likes to bay; though he doesn't bark excessively.