Do you want to know how much are Otterhound puppies? The Otterhound is a rare and endangered breed, with only 600 alive across the globe, as the American Kennel Club reported in 2012. As a result, Otterhound puppies typically cost a little more than puppies from other breeds.
Otterhound puppies can cost $1500, depending on various factors. However, high-quality puppies from reputable breeders may cost around $2000 or even more. So if you consider adopting this otterhound breed, read on as we look into the price of Otterhound puppies, what affects it, and where you can find one.
Overview of Otterhound Puppies
Before discussing the cost factors, let’s look at what makes the Otterhound dog so unique.
🐾Origin
Otterhounds were originally bred in England for hunting otters in the 12th century. However, their popularity rose during the reign of King Edward I (1239-1307) when the king requested that his courtiers bring him trained Otterhounds to hunt alongside him. Since then, Otterhounds have become popular thanks to their loyalty, intelligence, and natural love for the water.
For centuries, it was believed to have crossed several different breeds to create this unique hound breed; however, recent genetic testing has revealed this is not true. Instead, researchers believe that Otterhounds descended from an ancient breed called “the dog of the Britons.” This old breed likely originated in Europe and is believed to be one of the earliest domesticated canine breeds on record.
🐾Appearance
Otterhounds are also renowned for their signature coat pattern, which consists of a rough outer layer with an undercoat underneath it. This double-layered coat helps keep them warm when swimming in cold lakes or ponds while protecting brambles and thorns when hunting on land. In addition, the unique coat pattern, a strong sense of smell, and friendly nature make them ideal companions for those who love spending time outdoors.
🐾Temperament
Otterhound puppies have the most unique and lovable temperaments! They are incredibly loyal, making them great family companions. A combination of intelligence and enthusiasm means these pups love learning new tricks. In addition, their sociable nature makes them super friendly towards other dogs and humans alike. Curiously inquisitive, your Otterhound puppy will keep you entertained for hours.
These qualities make the Otterhound so valuable, which explains why this breed can be a bit pricier than other breeds.
How Much Are Otterhound Puppies?
As mentioned above, the Otterhound cost can range from $1500 to $2000 or more. So let’s explore a few variables that affect the price.
✔️Breeder Reputation
The reputation of the breeder you buy from dramatically influences the cost of your puppy. A reputable otterhound breeder will ensure their puppies are healthy, socialized, and come from good lines.
It means they’re more likely to produce well-adjusted, high-quality puppies. Generally speaking, these puppies will cost more than those from less reputable sources, although this isn’t always true. Therefore, it’s essential to research and ensures you purchase from a trustworthy breeder with experience raising healthy puppies.
✔️Pedigree
The pedigree of your puppy will also determine its price tag. The higher the quality of the parent dogs regarding health and temperament, the more expensive their offspring will likely be. If you want an Otterhound pup with show-dog potential or breeding rights, expect to pay significantly more than if you only want a pet-quality pup with no breeding rights attached.
✔️Geography
Where you live can also impact how much your puppy costs. For example, highly sought-after breeds like Otterhounds may sell for different prices in different parts of the country (or even between countries!). In addition, shipping fees may need to be considered if you purchase from a distant breeder or even out of state or country – so factor that into your budget as well.
✔️Breeding Lines
A puppy from champion breeding lines will likely cost more than one from non-champion lines because these puppies are thought to have better health and temperament than other puppies in the same breed. Of course, it doesn’t necessarily mean that champion lines are always better, but if you’re looking for a show-quality dog, it might be worth paying extra for one from champion parents.
✔️Size & Color
The size and color of your new pup can also affect its price tag. Generally speaking, puppies with rarer colors (such as blue merle or sable) will cost more than those with common colors (such as black or brown). Similarly, larger dogs cost more than smaller ones because they require additional care and expenses throughout their lifespan.
✔️Supply & Demand
Supply and demand also play a role in determining the price of an Otterhound puppy. If there is a significant demand but a limited supply, breeders might charge more for the puppies. Conversely, when there is low demand and high supply, breeders may offer discounts or even give away pups for free! Therefore, in finding the appropriate deal you must have before making a puppy purchase, it’s crucial to investigate the current state of the market.
Ultimately, the cost of your puppy will depend on various factors, and it’s essential to consider them before committing to buying.
The Otterhound Average Cost (Annually)
Aside from the upfront cost of buying a puppy, there are other expenses to consider when you own an Otterhound.
👉Supplies & Initial Setup Costs
On average, an Otterhound’s annual costs include supplies, such as food and toys, and any initial setup, like crates and beds. It could total around $600 a year. Remember that these costs may vary depending on your dog’s age, the size of its diet, the necessity for medical needs, and how often you opt for other extras such as pet sitters or groomers. Make sure to factor all this in when owning an Otterhound.
👉Vet Care/Health
Annual check-ups and vaccinations are essential for keeping your pup healthy and happy. These costs can range from $100-$200 per year, depending on where you live. Additionally, those costs could increase significantly if your pup needs specialized treatments or medications due to health problems or accidents. Vet Care/Health expenses should run around $720 annually for an Otterhound.
👉Food
Another major factor in owning a pet is feeding them well so they can stay healthy and active throughout their life. Depending on what type of food you choose for your pup (dry kibble vs. wet canned food), an Otterhound-sized dog’s average annual cost is about $500 per year.
👉Training
Training is another essential component when it comes to owning a pet like an Otterhound; while they’re not necessarily known as “difficult” dogs, they still require some training to become well-mannered family members! Professional training ranges from $400-$600 per year; however, if you decide to train them yourself with books or online courses, that could significantly bring down the training costs!
👉Insurance Costs
Insurance policies are also available for pets if something happens and they require medical attention or surgery—which can be very expensive! It’s always best to have insurance so that unexpected costs don’t put too much financial strain on you as a pet owner. The usual range for insurance policies is about $600 per year, but this could vary depending on where you live and what type of policy you choose!
👉Toys & Grooming
Toys are great because they keep your pup entertained while promoting healthy mental stimulation—plus, they make great gifts if someone else wants to treat them! On average, these items should run around $120 per year. This includes things like chew toys, squeaky toys & interactive puzzles.
Regarding grooming, it depends on how often your pup needs professional grooming sessions, which could increase the yearly costs by quite a bit if they require more frequent visits! Additionally, dog-sitting services should also be considered when budgeting for a new furry friend—these services typically range from $20-$50 per day, depending upon who is watching them & how long the stay will be.
How to Find Reputable Breeders of Otterhounds
If you understand all the costs of owning an Otterhound, the next step would be to find a reputable breeder. So how do you ensure the breeder you choose is trustworthy and not a puppy mill or backyard breeder? Here are some tips:
1: Research Breeders
Please do some research online on breeders before agreeing to deal with them. Check out its website and online profiles. You may also read customer feedback to learn more about their opinions. It will give you an idea of their breeding practices and whether they provide healthy puppies that meet breed standards.
2: Ask Questions
Once you’ve narrowed your list of potential breeders, contact them directly and ask about their experience with the breed and genetic health testing practices for their puppies. Responsible breeders will be open and honest about their policies regarding health screenings for hereditary diseases in Otterhounds and the conditions under which their puppies are bred and raised.
3: Visit in Person
It would be best to visit each potential breeder before deciding where to purchase your puppy. Visiting the facility will allow you to observe how the puppies are being cared for and interact with them directly to better understand their personalities before deciding which one is right for your family. Plus, seeing everything firsthand will help put your mind at ease when confirming that this breeder is trustworthy and reputable.
4: Ask For References
Any reputable breeder should be able to provide references from previous customers who purchased puppies from them—this is another way to confirm that they are running a legitimate business with high ethical standards regarding breeding quality Otterhounds responsibly.
5: Review Contracts Carefully
Before signing any contracts or agreements with the breeder, take some time to read through all of the paperwork carefully so there aren’t any surprises afterward. The contract should outline all of the terms of the sale, including payment information, vaccination requirements, guarantees on health testing results or genetic defects found later on, etc., as well as contact information in case there are any issues down the road after bringing home your new puppy.
What to Avoid When Adopting an Otterhound Puppy
When adding a new puppy to your family, you should take the adoption process seriously and heed any potential warning signs. Here are some warning signs to look out for to make sure you are purchasing an Otterhound from a trustworthy breeder:
👎Avoid Puppy Mills or Backyard Breeders
The two main red flags are puppy mills and backyard breeders. Puppy mills are places where mass breeding is done without adequate animal care. Backyard breeders, while more often than not well-meaning, only sometimes have their pup’s best interests in mind. Meaning they often need to prepare for health screening and vaccinations. If you find yourself researching either one type of breeder over another, be sure to ask lots of questions. Especially regarding medical background – before fully committing.
👎Not Socializing Otterhound Puppies Early On
It would be best if you socialized your puppy early in life. Taking them out regularly and exposing them to other people and animals is vital in helping them become well-rounded dogs. In addition, this will help your pup get used to other humans and animals and learn how to respond in different situations.
👎Not Keeping Up With Grooming Needs
An Otterhound has long hair that needs regular grooming to look its best. They need daily brushing, occasional baths, regular nail trimming, and ear cleaning. If grooming isn’t kept up with, their fur can become matted or tangled, which can cause discomfort for the dog. However, you should avoid intense grooming sessions (like clipping nails) until your pup’s first birthday.
Their bones are still forming during this time, and some procedures could cause harm if done too soon or improperly. Instead, try brushing their fur every couple of days (or more often if needed) and regular baths every few weeks using a mild dog shampoo designed for puppies.
👎Skimping on Exercise Needs
An Otterhound is a high-energy breed that needs daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. However, you should limit their physical activity for the first few months until their bones and muscles have had time to develop correctly. Stick with short walks and plenty of indoor playtimes until your pup is six months old before introducing high-energy activities like fetch or Frisbee.
👎Overfeeding Your Puppy
Otterhounds tend to gain weight quickly, so it’s important not to overfeed your puppy. Instead, stick with high-quality kibble explicitly made for puppies and feed them only what they need—no more than three meals daily. If your puppy starts accumulating too much weight, change their diet appropriately. It’s also essential to cut back on treats; while it’s nice to reward good behavior, too many treats can lead to obesity in your pup.
👎Not Teaching Basic Obedience Commands
Teaching basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come when called, etc., will help your pup stay safe while on walks or around strangers/other animals they may encounter while exploring. It also helps build trust between pet parents and puppies by showing them that you are in charge of their environment and care about what happens to them when they are away from home.
👎Don’t Let Them Off Leash Until They’re Trained
Otterhounds are intelligent dogs who love exploring their surroundings, but it’s important not to let them off leash until they’ve been adequately trained—otherwise, you may never get them back! Instead, start using positive reinforcement techniques to train your pup as soon as possible; teaching basic commands like “sit” or “stay” will help keep them safe when out in public or playing with other animals. Once you feel confident that your pup has mastered these commands, you can start introducing them to walking off-leash (in designated areas).
👎Ignoring Potential Health Issues
Like any breed, otterhounds are susceptible to specific health concerns, including hip dysplasia or eye disorders, so you must schedule routine examinations and vaccinations with your veterinarian! Be sure to ask your vet about any concerns or questions you may have about the breed’s specific health risks before adopting one into your family so that both parties can be aware of any potential issues ahead of time.
If you wish to own an Otterhound, ensure you understand what it takes to care for them properly—otherwise, they may become unhappy and unhealthy.
Essential Supplies for New Otterhound Owners
To ensure that your Otterhound is healthy and happy, there are some essential supplies that every new owner should have.
1: Collar and Leash
Every pup needs a collar and leash, so get one that fits properly before walking your dog. Look for collars made with durable materials like leather or nylon, as these will last longer than fabric or plastic collars. A standard six-foot leash is recommended, but if you plan on hiking with your pup, consider getting a retractable leash to provide them with more freedom while keeping them safe.
2: Food and Water Bowls
Dedicated food and water bowls will help keep your pup hydrated throughout the day. Unlike plastic bowls, stainless steel bowls are the best option because they are hygienic and won’t attract bacteria. For picky eaters, try getting an elevated bowl stand to make reaching their food easier without straining their neck or back muscles.
3: Grooming Supplies
Otterhounds have long coats that require frequent brushing, so having the right grooming supplies is essential to keeping their fur looking its best. Make sure to invest in a good quality brush specifically designed for long-haired breeds such as the Otterhound and shampoo formulated just for dogs (never use human shampoo). Consider also getting some detangling spray or conditioner to make brushing sessions easier for you and your pup.
4: Toys
Toys are essential for keeping your pup entertained when you can’t be around – plus, they make great rewards during training sessions! Look for durable toys to withstand rough play yet soft enough not to cause injury – rope tug toys are especially popular among Otterhounds who love to chew! Remember to rotate out old toys occasionally to keep things fresh and exciting – plus, it keeps destructive chewing habits from forming due to boredom!
5: Bed
Your otterhound needs somewhere comfortable and cozy to rest after all those long walks – so investing in a good bed is crucial! Look for beds made with orthopedic foam, which helps relieve joint pressure in older dogs prone to arthritis or other age-related aches and pains; alternatively, opt for an elevated bed if they tend towards overheating after exercise sessions outdoors in warm weather climates.
6: Crate/Kennel
Crates/kennels provide safe spaces where puppies can sleep undisturbed while owners are away from home at work or running errands; they also offer a sense of security when traveling by car or plane (remember not to leave them alone unsupervised!). When shopping around, make sure to choose one large enough to accommodate your dog’s full-grown size – if possible, bring him along so you can see how he fits inside before purchasing!
7: Health Supplies
Like any pet owner, you want the best health care possible for your furry friend – which means always having some basic health supplies. So stock up on flea & tick treatments & preventatives; ear cleaner; eye drops; nail clippers; toothbrush & toothpaste; a first aid kit with bandages & antiseptic cream; plus any other medications prescribed by his vet (e.g., heartworm prevention).
8: Treats & Chews
Positive reinforcement goes a long way when training puppies (especially those eager but naughty ones!), so readily available treats are always beneficial during training sessions & behavioral corrections alike! In addition, look into chews specifically designed chewers like the Otterhound, such as rawhide bones & bully sticks – but avoid cooked bones as they may splinter easily, causing internal damage if ingested by accident!
9: Poop bags/Litter Boxes
Cleaning up after our pets is one of those less glamorous parts of owning them. But it doesn’t have to be an unpleasant experience either, thanks poop bags specifically designed to pick up solid waste & urine messes quickly without much fuss– look into biodegradable options if possible to reduce the environmental impact even further. Alternatively, litter boxes can be used indoors (especially helpful in apartment living situations) though this requires a more frequent cleaning schedule than the outdoor pickup option.
10: Harness/Vest
Harnesses provide better control for overactive pups who frequently pull during walks – plus, they put less strain on the neck area than traditional collars do. Vests are an excellent choice for colder months since many come equipped with insulation material to keep our furry friends warm without sacrificing comfort. Make sure whichever style you choose fits snugly against your body, ensuring no excessive rubbing occurs, resulting in skin irritation over time.
Invest in quality products designed specifically for your canine companion’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Rare Is an Otterhound?
According to the Kennel Club UK, there are only around 600 registered Otterhounds in Britain. Furthermore, it is estimated that there are roughly 2,000 of them in the world. They are a very distinctive and unique breed of dog as a result.
Which Dog Breed Demands the Highest Price?
Big Splash, a Tibetan Mastiff, has been recorded as being the most-priced purebred dog. He sold for an astonishing $1.5 million in 2014! The second most expensive breed is another Tibetan Mastiff that sold for $1 million at a Chinese auction in 2011. By comparison, prices for an Otterhound pup can range anywhere from £800-£1000+ depending on breeder and location.
Does the Otterhound Shed A Lot?
Otterhounds have a double coat which means they shed quite a bit – but not as much as some other dog breeds with double coats, such as Golden Retrievers or Labradors. If properly maintained with regular brushing and grooming sessions, their shedding should be manageable and easy to control.
How Much Do Otterhound Puppies Cost in the UK?
Prices for an Otterhound puppy can range anywhere from £700-£1000+ depending on the breeder and location within Britain. It is important to remember that reputable breeders will always prioritize health testing over financial gain, so be sure to ask potential breeders what kind of health testing they have done on their animals before making any purchasing decisions!
Why Are Otterhounds Rare?
The main reason why these dogs are so rare today is that they were once used extensively for hunting otters in England during Medieval times (hence their name). But, unfortunately, it made them particularly unpopular with farmers who wanted to protect their crops from being damaged by hungry otters! As such, their numbers dwindled over time until they were almost extinct by the 1960s when Queen Elizabeth II stepped in and saved them from extinction by supporting breeding programs throughout Britain – thus ensuring their survival well into the modern day.
Final Words
When it comes to how much are otterhound puppies, the answer largely depends on the factors mentioned above. Therefore, if you want to add an otterhound puppy to your family, research thoroughly and create a budget beforehand. Most importantly, remember that responsible pet ownership requires commitment and responsibility, so be sure to provide your pup with a warm home, plenty of exercise opportunities, and lots of love!