Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect if you're interested in an Otterhound from us.

• How long have you been breeding dogs?

  • Our first litter of dogs was our first Otterhound litter in 2014. Since then, Four Pillars has reared and whelped 6 litters in our home. Barb has also whelped too many to count litters for other breeds and professionally while working as a veterinarian.​

• Are you a member of any breed clubs or registries?

  • We are members in good standing of the Otterhound Club of America and are members of the Central New Jersey Hound Association.​

• How often do you breed your dogs?

  • We breed our dogs 1-3 times throughout their breeding career. We wait at minimum of one season between breedings.​

• Where are your dogs raised (home, kennel, guardian homes)?

  • Our dogs are primarily raised in our home. We are always open and encouraging to help existing breeders and people interested in breeding establish themselves with our dogs.​

• Do you show, work, or title your dogs?

  • Our dogs all compete in AKC conformation.​

• How often do you have litters?

  • We have litters occasionally based on our girl's ages and fertility. We will have a few litters in the next few years due to our girls coming of age!​

• How many puppies are typically in a litter?

  • Litters typically range in size from 5-10 puppies. ​

• What colors do you produce?

  • Otterhounds cannot be bred for color. The dominant color in the breed is black and tan. Other colors typically seen are liver and tan and wheaten. Particolors are a rarer color in the breed. Color genetics are not well described in the breed - so we never know what we're gonna get!​

• When can puppies go home?

  • Puppies can go home from 8 weeks of age. If you are flying with your otterhound, we recommend picking up as close to 8 weeks as possible due to their rapid growth! At 8 weeks Otterhounds typically weigh 20lbs already!​

• How are puppies socialized?

  • Due to biosecurity concerns, visitors are limited when we have puppies. Puppies are reared in a busy home environment with as much stimulation as we can provide.​

• Are puppies exposed to children, other dogs, cats, etc.?

  • Puppies are continually exposed to other dogs and cats when with us. We hope to have exposure to children - however we don't have any of our own to guarantee this!​

• Are puppies temperament tested?

  • We evaluate puppies' temperaments throughout their time with us to help us determine the best homes for our dogs.​

• Do you match puppies to homes or allow buyers to choose?

  • It depends. Show homes are typically allowed to pick puppies with our input. We prefer to match pet puppies to homes to try our best to ensure an appropriate match.​

• Do you require an application?

  • We do not require official applications. Once you contact us, we will reach out and discuss your home situation, other pets and family members in the house. Based on this, we will see if we are a good fit for you and add you to our waitlist.​

• Is a deposit required?

  • No, we don't require deposits.​

• How much does a puppy cost?

  • All puppies cost $2500. This includes a one-year congenital health problem guarantee, one year membership Otterhound Club of America, a puppy pack, and lifetime breeder support.​

• Can buyers visit the puppies?

  • Local buyers can visit the puppies so long as any other dogs at home are healthy. ​

• Do you ship puppies?

  • ​No, we do not ship puppies. We want to meet all buyers in person at least at pick-up time.​​