Breed comparison
Bloodhound vs Otterhound
How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.
Otterhound4Affection with family5
3Good with young children3
3Good with other dogs3
3Openness to strangers4
3Playfulness3
3Energy level3
4Trainability4
3Mental stimulation needs3
3Adaptability4
2Watchdog / protective3
5Barking5
3Shedding2
2Coat grooming2
5Drooling3
The biggest differences
- Drooling: the Bloodhound scores 5 out of 5, the Otterhound 3.
They score the same on good with young children, good with other dogs, playfulness, energy level, trainability, mental stimulation needs.
Which one should you choose?
Pick the Bloodhound if its looks and size suit you better, since the ratings are close. Pick the Otterhound if you want less dog hair, you live in a smaller home or move often, you want a more protective watchdog.
Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.
Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.