Otterhound Weight & Growth Chart
Complete weight guide with growth charts for male and female Otterhounds from puppy to adult.
Otterhound Weight Overview
Males weigh 80 to 115 pounds and females 65 to 100 pounds; they are a big, substantial breed that should appear powerful without being fat.. Males tend to be larger at 80–115 lbs versus 68–101 lbs for females.
Genetics, diet, and exercise all play a role in determining your dog's ideal weight. The growth chart below provides a general timeline for weight gain from puppyhood through adulthood.
Otterhound Growth Chart
When Does a Otterhound Stop Growing?
The Otterhound stops growing in height (target: 24–27 inches) around 15–24 months of age, but may continue adding weight toward 115 lbs for several more months. Males weigh 80 to 115 pounds and females 65 to 100 pounds; they are a big, substantial breed that should appear powerful without being fat..
Their rough double coat coat may also undergo changes during this period, reaching its adult texture by maturity.
Otterhound Male vs Female Size Differences
Male and female Otterhounds differ noticeably in size, a pattern common in large breeds. Males typically weigh 80–115 lbs, while females weigh 68–101 lbs. Both sexes stand 24–27 inches tall at the shoulder, though males tend to fall at the upper end of this range.
These size differences can influence practical ownership decisions. Larger males require more food, larger crate sizes, and stronger leash handling. Female Otterhounds at the lower weight range may be easier to manage physically for smaller handlers or families with children. Both sexes share the same temperament and health profile, so size preference should be a practical decision rather than a temperament-based one.
Is My Otterhound Overweight?
Assessing your Otterhound's body condition (healthy range: 80–115 lbs):
- Rib check: Run your hands along the ribcage—you should feel individual ribs under a slight fat layer
- Overhead view: A defined waist should be visible between ribs and hips
- Side profile: The abdomen should tuck upward behind the last rib
Overweight Otterhounds face higher risks of Hip Dysplasia, joint problems, and shortened lifespan. As a large-sized hound breed, maintaining lean body condition is especially important for longevity. Work with your vet to adjust feeding and exercise if needed.
Otterhound Weight Management Tips
Maintaining your Otterhound at a healthy weight between 80 and 115 lbs is one of the most impactful things you can do for their long-term health. Studies consistently show that lean dogs live an average of 1.8–2.5 years longer than overweight dogs of the same breed.
Portion control: Use a measuring cup for every meal rather than estimating. Feed the amount recommended for your Otterhound's ideal weight, not their current weight if they are overweight. Divide daily food into two meals for adults and three meals for puppies under six months.
Treat management: Treats should not exceed 10% of daily caloric intake. Use small, low-calorie training treats and consider using pieces of your dog's regular kibble as rewards during training sessions. Avoid table scraps entirely, as they add unpredictable calories and can introduce foods that are toxic to dogs.
Exercise alignment: With an exercise needs rating of 4/5, the Otterhound requires vigorous daily activity. Insufficient exercise paired with full feeding portions guarantees weight gain. Ensure at least 60 minutes of activity daily, combining walks with active play sessions.
Regular weigh-ins: Weigh your Otterhound monthly and track the trend. Gradual weight gain of even one to two pounds per month can lead to significant obesity over time. Your veterinarian can establish your dog's ideal weight during wellness visits and recommend caloric adjustments as needed.
Feeding Recommendation
Feed an adult Otterhound approximately 1.2–2.3 cups of quality kibble daily, split into two meals. Males (80–115 lbs) may need slightly more than females (68–101 lbs). Males weigh 80 to 115 pounds and females 65 to 100 pounds; they are a big, substantial breed that should appear powerful without being fat.. Active individuals with energy rated 4/5 may need portions at the higher end of guidelines.
Otterhound Weight by Age Table
The following table shows expected weight ranges for male and female Otterhounds at key developmental milestones. Individual dogs may fall slightly outside these ranges depending on genetics, nutrition, and activity level. Consult your veterinarian if your Otterhound's weight deviates significantly from these benchmarks.
| Age | Male (lbs) | Female (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 months | 20.9–25.1 | 17.7–21.4 |
| 6 months | 47.0–56.5 | 39.8–48.2 |
| 9 months | 67.8–81.7 | 57.5–69.6 |
| 12 months | 83.5–100.5 | 70.8–85.6 |
| 18 months | 99.1–119.4 | 84.1–101.7 |
| 24 months | 104.3–125.6 | 88.5–107.0 |
Health Risks of Incorrect Weight in Otterhounds
Both underweight and overweight conditions pose serious health risks for the Otterhound. Understanding these risks reinforces the importance of maintaining your dog within the 80–115 lb target range.
Overweight risks: Excess weight places additional strain on joints, increasing the risk and severity of conditions like Hip Dysplasia. Overweight Otterhounds also face higher rates of diabetes, heart disease, respiratory compromise, heat intolerance, and reduced lifespan. Even moderate excess weight, just 10–15% above ideal, shortens life expectancy and reduces quality of life.
Underweight risks: A Otterhound consistently below 80 lbs may be experiencing inadequate nutrition, parasitic infection, dental problems that prevent eating, or underlying illness. Underweight dogs have weakened immune systems, poor coat quality, reduced energy, and slower healing. If your Otterhound appears thin despite normal feeding, veterinary examination is essential to rule out medical causes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Breeds You May Also Like
If you are interested in the Otterhound, you may also want to explore these breeds with similar size, temperament, or group classification.