The Otterhound originated in medieval England in response to otters becoming an ever-increasing threat to the fish populations. They were also kept by noblemen for the sport of otter hunting, which was less popular than fox hunting during the time. In the late 1900's, river otters were placed on the protected species list and otter hunting was brought to a halt. Today, the Otterhound is an extremely rare breed, with less than 600 existing in the entire world.