Meet the Beagle

The Beagle is a happy little scent hound that is part of the AKC Hound Group. Beagles originated in the 1300s and their main function was trailing rabbits. Today, their function still entails trailing rabbits, competing in field trials and, most recently, detecting contraband and valued family members. Let’s sniff a little deeper into this fun dog breed!

Beagle General Characteristics and Temperament

Beagles come in different varieties separated by wither (shoulder) height, ranging between 13-15 inches tall and weighing between 18-30 lbs. Beagles are considered medium size dogs, which enables them to be easily spotted while maneuvering through low foliage or carried to the hunt if needed. You will find the Beagle has a true hound color with the mixture of black, brown and white, and a thick hard coat that protects them from underbrush.

Our friendly Beagle was bred as a pack hunter and requires companionship whether it’s with a human, animal or both. These dogs are fun-loving, curious and tolerant dogs that make excellent family pets. Families with children can expect these dogs to be incredibly funny and easy-going, yet ready to join in on family outdoor games. If you’re looking for a fierce-looking dog, Beagles may not be your best bet. However, they are great watch dogs that are happy to alert you of anything suspicious.

Beagle Health and Nutrition

Beagles have a 12- to 15-year lifespan, depending on nutrition and general care. As with all dogs, there are some health concerns, such as intervertebral disk disease (bulging or herniated discs), glaucoma, epilepsy, CPRA (degenerative eye disease), hypothyroidism, patellar luxation (loose kneecap), chondrodysplasia (canine dwarfism) and cherry eye. Always seek a responsible dog breeder who performs health testing on dogs to ensure a healthy puppy. If you’re choosing to adopt through a rescue organization or shelter, you can still test your newly adopted dog for these health concerns.

Nutrition is a big part of your dog’s health, as this is what fuels them to be the best they can be. Feeding your dog a premium diet that meets his specific needs promotes good health! If you’re unsure of which nutrition plan would be best for your dog, you can always talk with your veterinarian for different options.

RELATED: Understanding Dog Nutrition

Grooming Your Beagle

Grooming requirements are minimal due to a close hard coat that protects Beagles from the harsh environment. A biweekly bath with regular brushing will be more than enough in the grooming department.

Ears

Beagles have pendulous (hanging) ears that can trap moisture, which creates a perfect environment for bacteria and fungus to grow. Make sure to flip each ear flap back, look inside each ear canal and take a whiff. If you notice any discharge or foul odor (musty or putrid), schedule a vet appointment immediately. Regular ear cleanings and inspections are very important.

Nails

Beagles have small, round paws with medium nails. It’s important to keep your dog’s nails trimmed to prevent cracking and overgrowth.

Teeth

Dental care is very important whether you have a large or small dog. Providing regular brushing with a dog-safe toothbrush and toothpaste can help prevent gum disease and heart disease.

RELATED: Small Dog Dental Care Tips

Dog Training and Exercise

Since Beagles were bred to trail small animals at high speed and for long periods of time, they need regular exercise, such as long walks and scent games. I’ve said it before and I will say it again: a tired dog is a good dog!

Beagles are super easy to teach polite manners as long as any excess energy has been released. Find something your Beagle loves. Scent hounds usually love stinky food so provide that to keep them engaged during dog training sessions.

Dog training doesn’t have to be a job. Make it a game by having your dog sit patiently for his food, or try teaching your Beagle to wait at the back door and reward for good behavior with a stuffed rabbit toy.

Keep That Nose Busy

Sometimes complete focus is challenging since most Beagles’ noses tend to be stuck to the ground. You really can’t blame them for this, as this is what they were bred to do! Teaching a focus cue can help. Just be sure to give a very high value reward to make it worth their while.

Barking and Howling

As trailing dogs, Beagles have a loud and far-reaching howl and bark–it’s how hunters locate their dogs when chasing game. If howling or barking is an issue, teach the “quiet” cue by rewarding quiet and ignoring barking.

Conclusion

In my experience, Beagles are fun-loving, social dogs that can be a great addition to your family. If you’re interested in gathering more information about this awesome breed, please check out the links I have provided below.

Sources:
www.AKC.org
www.nationalbeaglerescue.com

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