Beagle FAQs 101

McGehee's Happy Acres Kennel

    The beagle is a small scent hound, bred to track rabbit and hare while the hunter follows on foot. They are short coated and usually a sturdy little hound. They come in two varieties: 13" and 15". There is a great distinction in their hair color, although the most common is black, tan and white (tricolor).

    Because beagles are scent hounds, they can be roamers, an escape-proof fenced yard is a must have with a beagle. Fences should be high enough (4 feet or higher) to prevent climbing and secured at the base to prevent digging out. Gates should have good latches and be child-proof, preferably locked. However, not all beagles are climbers or diggers. This usually happens if they are just left outside without any kind of attention from the family or other dogs. Beagles need companionship and daily exercise. Prone to barking and howling when bored and with there active nature, Beagles do not make good apartment dogs.

     Beagle puppies (up to 2 years old) are very inquisitive and active. Because of their scenting ability, they tend to be into everything, especially waste baskets, food left anywhere, or cat litter boxes.

    Beagle puppies need a great deal of time for training, so they are better placed where some adult in the family is home all or at least 3/4 of the day. They also require a family that has the patience to work with them and not become angry or abuse them because they don't learn something fast enough for the owners! Beagles are very intelligent, and they don't take long to learn if they're taught the correct way (motivational training consisting of food, fun, praise, and a good time.)

    Even though they have a mind of their own, they can make very good obedience dogs if the motivational training method is used. They do not respond to rough methods of training since they do have a sensitive nature. They really want to work and please you and if they don't do well in obedience, it is usually because the owner is the one not paying attention or not doing the home training in the proper manner.

    The beagle is an ideal pet for a family with children ranging in age from six on up. They are very good with children which is why they are called a very good family pet.

    Like any other dog, they like their family around and usually get along well with other dogs (sometimes cats also) since they were bred to hunt in packs. A beagle does best in a home where the people are patient and loving, willing to work with the dog, and have the time to work with the dog

MORE BEAGLE FAQs

The beagle is a scenthound that dates back to 200 A.D., originally bred in England to track rabbit and hare. Beagles range in weight from 13 to 30 pounds, and come in two varieties: under 13” and between 13” and 15” at the shoulder.

There are various color combinations, with the tricolor (black, tan, and white) being the most common; however, tan and white and lemon white are seen, as well as blues and chocolates. Always present are the white feet and tail tip.

The beagle is an intelligent, sturdy, high-energy dog that requires minimal grooming. Their highly developed sense of smell and inquisitive nature can make them wanderers. A properly fenced yard is a necessity. He is friendly, loving, sweet in disposition and not a fighter by nature.

The beagle is a versatile dog. They can be shown in conformation (how well the dog conforms to the AKC Standard), obedience (how well the dog responds to the handler’s commands), junior showmanship (where the young handler is judged on performance instead of the dog), and, of course, used for hunting and tracking.

As with any pet, health care is important. Hearty eaters, beagles will be quick to put on weight if the amount of food is not carefully monitored. Weekly grooming of a beagle should include brushing, toenail trimming, and careful ear cleaning. Ear care is especially important. Because of their pendulous ears, beagles have a tendency for ear mites and infection.

The beagle is a comparatively healthy breed with a normal life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. However, as with all purebred dogs, there are a few genetic problems associated with this breed. Cherry eye, epilepsy, and disc disease can occur. Beagles also have a tendency to develop tartar on their teeth, however, daily brushing will help retard its development.

The beagle is an ideal pet for a family with children ranging in age from six on up, and for the family with one member home during the day. The family must be willing to make the commitment to spend time, love, and money on this fun-loving little hound. Obedience training is very helpful when the beagle reaches the proper age - usually around twelve weeks old.

The beagle puppy is irresistible. However, puppies grow up, and the beagle adolescence (six months to two years) is an exuberant one. The pretty little puppy begins to grow, gets stronger and requires more exercise, and will chew almost anything, especially during the teething period.

When considering a beagle, or any dog as a pet, consultation with a reputable breeder is recommended. Reputable breeders know the breed best and can advise as to whether a beagle is the right dog for you. A reputable breeder will stand behind the beagle he or she breeds.

If you are not able to devote the time necessary to train a puppy, then you might want to consider obtaining an adult through a beagle rescue program. Either way - whether you choose a puppy from a breeder, or a rescue dog who needs your love - you will find a beagle an enjoyable and loving pet!