Beagles are happy-go-lucky, energetic dogs that love to play and be around people. They are also very curious, which can sometimes lead to trouble. Beagles are often described as being “nosey” because they will follow their nose wherever it leads them! This trait can be both good and bad – it’s good because Beagles are very good at tracking and finding things, but it can be bad because they may not come back when called or may wander off and get lost.
In this article we will discuss in detail about important things to know before adopting a Beagle Dog
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History
The Beagle breed originated in England and was developed to be a hunting dog. They were traditionally used to track rabbits and other small game. The Beagle’s sense of smell is so keen that they were even used by customs officials to sniff out contraband items such as drugs and explosives.
Beagles are still used for hunting in some parts of the world, but they are perhaps best known now as popular family pets.
Physical Appearance
Beagles are small dogs, typically have short, smooth coats that can be any color or combination of colors, including black, brown, tan, white, and red. Beagles have long ears that hang down close to their cheeks, and a tail that is usually carried high.
Size and Weight
Beagles typically weigh between 20 and 30 pounds. They stand about 13 inches tall at the shoulder.
Temperament
Beagles are bred as hunting dogs, which means they have lots of energy and love to be outdoors. If you’re looking for a low-key lapdog, a Beagle is probably not the right breed for you. Beagles require daily exercise, preferably in the form of a long walk or run.
Health Issues
Beagles are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they’re prone to certain health conditions, so its important to know before adopting a Beagle. Some of the common health issues that may affect Beagles include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, diabetes, and hypothyroidism.
Before adopting a Beagle, be sure to talk to the breeder or rescue organization about any health concerns that may be present in the bloodline. It’s also a good idea to have a vet checkup soon after adoption, just to be on the safe side.
9 Important Things to Know Before Adopting a Beagle
1. Beagle is an Inquisitive Sniffing Dog
While the Beagle’s main job was hunting hare, rabbits and other small game, their keen sense of smell and superior tracking skills have also made them popular as detection dogs in a number of settings. From airports to agriculture, Beagles have been enlisted to sniff out everything from contraband fruit to bedbugs.
When it comes to pet Beagles, this talent for sniffing can sometimes get them into trouble. Beagles are notorious escape artists, and their noses often lead them astray. If you’re thinking of adopting a Beagle, be prepared to keep a close eye on your furry friend, especially if you live near an open space where they could potentially run off and get lost.
2. Beagles Are a Popular Family Pet
While Beagles were originally bred as hunting dogs, However today they’re mostly known as loyal and loving family pets. Affectionate and good-natured, Beagles are great with kids and get along well with other pets in the home and their small size also makes them ideal for city living.
3. Avoid Dog Foods with Fillers
Many cheaper brands of dog food contain fillers like corn, wheat and soy, which can trigger allergies and upset their stomach. Stick to dog foods that contain quality ingredients like meat, vegetables and healthy fats.
4. Provide Plenty of Exercise
Beagles are active dogs, and they need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. A daily walk or run is a great way to get your Beagle’s heart pumping, and playing fetch or going for a swim are also great exercise options.
If you live in an apartment or small space, it’s especially important to make sure your Beagle gets enough exercise, as this can help to prevent behavior problems like excessive barking or chewing.
5. Give Them Mental Stimulation
In addition to physical exercise, Beagles also need mental stimulation to stay happy and avoid boredom. Beagle-proof your home by putting away anything that might be tempting for your dog to chew on, and give them plenty of toys and puzzles to keep their minds challenged.
6. Low-maintenance grooming
Beagles are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. A weekly brush will help to remove any dead hair and keep their coats looking healthy and shiny. Beagles don’t typically need to be bathed too often, but if they do get dirty, use a mild dog shampoo to avoid drying out their skin.
7. Beagles tend to be vocal dogs
Beagles are known for their distinctively loud, howling voices. This is one of the things that makes them such great hunting dogs, as their voices can carry for long distances.
While some people find this endearing, others may not appreciate being serenaded by their dog at all hours of the day. If you’re thinking of adopting a Beagle, be aware that their loud voices may not be music to your ears.
8. They can be stubborn
Beagles are intelligent dogs, but they can also be fiercely independent and strong-willed. This means that they require firm, consistent training from an early age. Beagles are quick learners, but they can also be quick to forget what they’ve learned if they become bored or distracted.
9. Beagles are food-motivated
One of the things that makes Beagles such great hunting dogs is their strong motivation for food. This same trait can make them difficult to train, as they may be more interested in the treat you’re offering them than in what you’re trying to teach them.
When training a Beagle, be patient and use high-value treats that your dog will be excited about. Remember that consistency is key, as Beagles can quickly forget their training if they become bored or distracted.
People Also Ask
Are beagles good for first-time owners?
Beagles are a popular choice for first-time dog owners, but they do require some special consideration. As escape artists, Beagles need to be kept on a leash or in a secure area when outside, and their strong noses can lead them into trouble if they’re not supervised.
Beagles are also known for being vocal dogs, so if you’re looking for a quiet dog, a Beagle is probably not the right choice for you. With that said, Beagles are loyal and loving dogs who make great family pets. If you’re willing to put in the time and effort to train and exercise them, a Beagle can make a wonderful addition to your home.
Do all beagles bark a lot?
Beagles are known for their distinctively loud, howling voices. This is one of the things that makes them such great hunting dogs, as their voices can carry for long distances.
Do Beagles shed?
Yes, Beagles do shed. But good news for you that Beagle shedding is not as bad as some other dog breeds. They are what we call a “light shedders”, which means they don’t have a thick coat that sheds constantly throughout the year.
Beagles only shed their outer coat once or twice a year, typically during the spring and fall. During these times, you may find more hair around your home than usual. To help manage shedding, we recommend brushing your Beagle 2-3 times per week.
While Choosing what should I look for in a Beagle puppy?
When choosing a Beagle puppy, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
- Visit in Person. First, make sure you visit the breeder or shelter in person to meet the puppies and their parents. This will give you a good idea of what to expect in terms of size, temperament, and energy level.
- Choose Right Puppy. It’s also important to choose a puppy who is healthy and has been well-socialized. Be sure to ask the breeder or shelter worker about the puppies’ health and socialization history.
- Trust your gut. When you meet the puppies, pay attention to which one seems most compatible with your lifestyle and personality. A good breeder or shelter worker will be able to help you choose the right puppy for your family.
