Otterhound Feeding Guide
How much to feed your Otterhound — daily calories, portion sizes, and feeding schedule
Originating in England, the Otterhound is a large-sized hound breed that currently holds the #138 spot in AKC registrations. One of the few breeds with webbed feet and an oily, waterproof double coat, making them exceptional swimmers who can trail scent even underwater. The Otterhound is a member of the Hound Group — dogs originally developed to track game using their exceptional sense of smell. Their feeding plan should account for their high energy output on tracking days. An adult Otterhound needs between 1708 and 2242 calories per day, though this varies with age, weight, activity level, and individual metabolism.
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.
Daily Calorie Needs for Otterhound
Adult
1708-2242
kcal/day
Puppy (peak)
1837
kcal/day (6-9 mo)
Senior
1242-1630
kcal/day
Note: Feeding guidelines are estimates based on standard veterinary formulas. Every dog is different — consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Feeding Strategy for Otterhounds
With an above-average energy level, the Otterhound benefits from a feeding plan that balances calorie intake with their active lifestyle. Two measured meals per day totaling 4.5-5.9 cups of kibble provides steady energy without the blood sugar spikes of a single large meal. Choose a formula with at least 25% protein and moderate fat to support their daily activity.
Bloat Prevention for Otterhounds
Otterhounds are predisposed to Bloat (commonly known as bloat), one of the most serious emergencies in veterinary medicine. The stomach fills with gas and can twist on itself, cutting off blood supply. How you feed your Otterhound directly impacts this risk. Deep-chested breeds like the Otterhound are anatomically more susceptible, but proper feeding practices significantly reduce the odds.
Essential Feeding Practices
- Divide daily food into 2-3 smaller meals instead of one large feeding
- Use a slow-feeder bowl to prevent gulping air while eating
- Avoid vigorous exercise for at least 30-60 minutes before and after meals
- Keep your dog calm during and after mealtimes — excitement increases air swallowing
- Consider moistening kibble with warm water to reduce expansion in the stomach
- Avoid elevated bowls if your vet hasn't specifically recommended them
Otterhound Feeding Schedule
Morning (7-8 AM)
2.3-3 cups kibble
Evening (5-6 PM)
2.3-3 cups kibble
Split Meals
Portion Sizes by Food Type
Daily Portions for Otterhound
Based on average adult weight and activity level
| Food Type | Daily Amount | Calories | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Kibble | 4.5-5.9 cups | 1708-2242 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~380 kcal per cup |
| Wet Food | 6.8-9 cans | 1708-2242 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~250 kcal per 13oz can |
| Raw Diet | 26-55 oz | 1708-2242 kcal | 2 meals/day | 2-3% of body weight |
- Amount
- 4.5-5.9 cups
- Calories
- 1708-2242 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~380 kcal per cup
- Amount
- 6.8-9 cans
- Calories
- 1708-2242 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~250 kcal per 13oz can
- Amount
- 26-55 oz
- Calories
- 1708-2242 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
2-3% of body weight
Exercise & Feeding for Otterhounds
The Otterhound requires significant daily exercise — typically 60-90 minutes of vigorous activity. On high-activity days (hiking, running, dog sports), increase their food by 10-20% to compensate for the extra calorie burn. On rest days, stick to the baseline portion. Never feed a large meal within 30 minutes of intense exercise; instead, offer a small snack 2 hours before activity and the main meal 1 hour after.
Joint Health & Nutrition
Joint health is a primary nutritional concern for Otterhounds, which are predisposed to Hip Dysplasia and Elbow Dysplasia. Diet plays a preventive and management role at every life stage. For puppies, controlled growth rate and proper calcium-phosphorus ratios protect developing joints. For adults, maintaining ideal body weight reduces mechanical stress on joints. Specific nutrients can slow cartilage degradation and reduce inflammation.
Recommended Joint Supplements
Coat & Skin Nutrition
The Otterhound's Rough Double Coat requires nutritional support from the inside out. Double-coated breeds undergo significant seasonal shedding (known as "blowing coat") in spring and fall, during which nutritional demands for skin and hair production increase. A diet deficient in essential fatty acids, biotin, or zinc will show in the coat quality within weeks — look for dullness, excessive shedding, or dry, flaky skin as early warning signs.
Key Nutrients for Coat Health
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Using a puppy formula designed for small breeds
Large and giant breed puppies need controlled calcium and phosphorus levels to prevent developmental orthopedic diseases. Always choose a large-breed puppy formula that supports slow, steady growth rather than rapid weight gain.
Feeding one large meal per day
Otterhounds are at risk for bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), a life-threatening emergency. Always split daily food into 2-3 smaller meals and avoid exercise immediately after eating. Consider an elevated bowl and a slow-feeder.
Not adjusting portions for activity level
An active Otterhound that runs for 2 hours burns significantly more than one that had a lazy day. Track activity and adjust portions accordingly — up to 20% more on high-activity days, 10% less on rest days.
Skipping joint supplements until problems appear
For breeds predisposed to joint issues, preventive supplementation with glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids can help protect cartilage before damage occurs. Starting these supplements early — even at 1-2 years old — is more effective than waiting for symptoms.
Not providing enough water alongside increased food
Active large breeds process significant amounts of food and need plenty of fresh water. Ensure your Otterhound always has access to clean water, and consider adding water to kibble if hydration is a concern, especially after exercise.
Otterhound-Specific Feeding Tips
Tip 1
Tip 2
Tip 3
Tip 4
Tip 5
Tip 6
Breed-Specific Nutritional Needs
Based on health conditions common in Otterhounds, consider these nutritional adjustments:
Glucosamine & Chondroitin
Add a joint supplement with glucosamine (500-1000mg) and chondroitin. Consider foods with added omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) to reduce inflammation.
Meal Frequency
Feed 2-3 smaller meals per day instead of one large meal. Use a slow-feeder bowl. Avoid exercise 30 minutes before and after meals.
Otterhound Ideal Weight
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.
Male Otterhound
80-115 lbs
36-52 kg
Female Otterhound
68-101 lbs
31-46 kg
Related Guides
Feeding Guides for Similar Breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
Feeding Guidelines Disclaimer
The feeding recommendations on DosageGuide.com are estimates based on standard veterinary nutrition formulas (RER = 70 × weight^0.75) and general guidelines from AAFCO and veterinary nutrition resources.
Every dog is unique. Actual calorie needs vary based on breed, metabolism, activity level, health conditions, spay/neuter status, and the specific food brand you use. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice.
These guides are for general reference and do not replace professional veterinary guidance. Adjust portions based on your dog's body condition score and weight trends.