Additional information (Wiki): There are only an estimated 1,000 or so Otterhounds in the world and somewhere between 350 and 400 in the US. Even in the early 20th century, when otter hunting was most popular as a sport, Otterhounds were not numerous. They are now considered the most endangered dog breed in Britain since only 51 were born there in 2006. They are on the list of Vulnerable Native Breeds as identified by the UK Kennel Club, and as much as possible is being done to save the breed.  Indeed, experts now view otterhounds as more endangered than the Giant Panda. However, while the domestic dog has many breeds which vary greatly in morphology it is important to remember these are all classified as the same sub-species Canis lupus familiaris. This sub-species is in no way endangered (unlike the Giant Panda Ailuropoda melanoleuca whose entire species has an estimated population of just 1600 in the wild).

The Otterhound hunts its quarry both on land and in water and it has a combination of characteristics unique among hounds; most notably an oily, rough, double coat and substantial webbed feet.

The use of otterhounds to hunt otters by scent ceased in the Britain in 1978 when it became illegal to kill otters, at which point otter hunts switched to hunting mink or coypu.