Otterhound vs Redbone Coonhound
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
Redbone Coonhound
Hound 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.
Redbone Coonhound Overview
Redbone Coonhounds possess a striking solid red coat and muscular build, with long ears and soulful brown eyes. Their athletic frame supports their renowned hunting abilities, while their expressive face reveals their gentle, even-tempered nature. Standing proudly with a deep chest and strong legs, these hounds combine power with agility, displaying the classic traits of a skilled trailing dog.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Otterhounds are less energetic than Redbone Coonhounds, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Otterhounds require less grooming attention compared to Redbone Coonhounds.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Otterhounds tend to be more outgoing with strangers than Redbone Coonhounds.
- Trainability: Otterhounds may be slightly easier to train due to their Otterhound's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Redbone Coonhounds 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 Redbone Coonhound, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Otterhound | Redbone Coonhound |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 10-13 years | 12-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Hound Group | Hound Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Otterhound | Redbone Coonhound |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 24-27 inches 61-69 cm | 21-27 inches 53-69 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 | Redbone Coonhound |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Even-Tempered, Amiable, Boisterous | Even-Tempered, Amiable, Eager to Please |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Otterhound | Redbone Coonhound |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Redbone Coonhound Temperament
The Redbone Coonhound is characterized by being even-tempered, amiable, eager to please, which makes them great companions for families. 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 Redbone Coonhound, 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
Redbone Coonhound
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Otterhound
Rating: 3/5
Redbone Coonhound
Rating: 5/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Otterhound
Rating: 3/5
Redbone Coonhound
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Otterhound
Rating: 3/5
Redbone Coonhound
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Otterhound
Rating: 3/5
Redbone Coonhound
Rating: 3/5
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.
Redbone Coonhound Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Redbone Coonhounds 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, Redbone Coonhounds require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Otterhound Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Bloat
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Glaucoma
Redbone Coonhound Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Ear Infections
- Bloat
- Obesity
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
Redbone Coonhound
Pros
- Excellent tracking abilities
- Friendly temperament
- Good with families
- Low grooming needs
Cons
- High exercise requirements
- Strong prey drive
- Can be vocal
- Needs space to roam
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Otterhound and Redbone Coonhound, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.