Otterhound vs Chow Chow
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Otterhound
Hound Group
Chow Chow
Non-Sporting Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Otterhound Overview
Majestic and powerful, the Otterhound stands out with its rough double coat and impressive webbed feet. Their large, athletic build features a broad head, substantial bone structure, and loose-hanging skin that creates distinctive facial expressions. Possessing keen swimming abilities and an exceptional nose, these hounds combine strength with agility, while their waterproof coat protects them in various weather conditions.
Chow Chow Overview
Majestic and powerful, the Chow Chow boasts a distinctive lion-like mane and unique blue-black tongue. Their sturdy build, deep-set eyes, and thick double coat create an impressive presence. Standing proudly with a characteristic scowling expression, these ancient dogs combine strength with remarkable agility. Their aloof demeanor and dignified bearing reflect their noble heritage as guardians and companions.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Otterhounds are less energetic than Chow Chows, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Otterhounds require less grooming attention compared to Chow Chows.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Otterhounds tend to be more outgoing with strangers than Chow Chows.
- Trainability: Otterhounds may be slightly easier to train due to their Otterhound's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Chow Chows adapt better to apartment living, while Otterhounds typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Otterhound and Chow Chow, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Otterhound | Chow Chow |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 10-13 years | 8-12 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Hound Group | Non-Sporting Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Otterhound | Chow Chow |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 24-27 inches 61-69 cm | 17-20 inches 43-51 cm |
| Weight | 80-115 lbs 36-52 kg | 45-70 lbs 20-32 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Seasonal | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Otterhound | Chow Chow |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Even-Tempered, Amiable, Boisterous | Dignified, Bright, Serious-Minded |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Otterhound | Chow Chow |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Otterhound Temperament
The Otterhound is known for being even-tempered, amiable, boisterous, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They're typically friendly with strangers, making them poor guard dogs but excellent social companions. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different lifestyles, though they still need regular exercise.
Chow Chow Temperament
The Chow Chow is characterized by being dignified, bright, serious-minded, which makes them better for households without small children. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They're naturally cautious around strangers, which enhances their ability to serve as watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Otterhound and Chow Chow, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Otterhound
Rating: 3/5
Chow Chow
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Otterhound
Rating: 3/5
Chow Chow
Rating: 2/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Otterhound
Rating: 3/5
Chow Chow
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Otterhound
Rating: 3/5
Chow Chow
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Otterhound
Rating: 3/5
Chow Chow
Rating: 4/5
Care & Maintenance
Otterhound Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Otterhounds require moderate daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Otterhounds require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
Chow Chow Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Chow Chows need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Chow Chows require significant grooming attention. This includes brushing several times per week to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is typically necessary.
Health & Lifespan
Otterhound Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Bloat
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Glaucoma
Chow Chow Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Entropion
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Thyroid Disease
- Patellar Luxation
Pros & Cons
Otterhound
Pros
- Excellent swimming ability
- Friendly temperament
- Good with families
- Strong tracking abilities
Cons
- High grooming needs
- Requires lots of exercise
- Can be stubborn
- Rare and expensive
Chow Chow
Pros
- Loyal to family
- Clean and cat-like
- Excellent guard dog
- Minimal barking
- Independent nature
Cons
- Stubborn personality
- Challenging to train
- Heavy shedding
- Aloof with strangers
- Requires regular grooming
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Otterhound and Chow Chow, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.