The Beagle is one of the most popular breeds in America today. According to the American Kennel Club, the Beagle remains in the top five of registered breeds. The breed itself was developed in Great Britain around a century ago, but Beagle-type breeds have been in existence for centuries.
The Bad News Many families are attracted to Beagles because of the long-standing reputation for being friendly and good-natured with children. This is absolutely true; however, the Beagle’s popularity in recent years has led to indiscriminate breeding by individuals who are motivated by profit rather than raising good-tempered, healthy dogs. Obedience instructors and behavioral consultants see many Beagles with neurotic behaviors, including biting, moodiness, and mindless noise. Over breeding has also led to chronic health problems in many Beagles. Joint problems, ear infections, and skin disorders are commonly seen in the breed.
The Good News Despite the problems caused by poor breeding, there are many, many suitable, healthy Beagles looking for homes. A Beagle of good breeding is a happy, good-natured, playful dog. He is adaptable to city life and loves playing with his family. Experts are providing their information with my response at the websites. The breed of the dog should stay happy with good eating habits. The nature of the person with the dogs should be enjoyable and interesting for the person. The adaptation of the lifestyle will be interesting and easy for the person.
Beagles are fast and athletic and need regular running. A daily walk is essential, and a run is even better. A Beagle should not be allowed off-leash, as he is an obsessive explorer who will follow his nose right across the freeway if that’s where that fascinating smell went. This drive to follow a yummy scent can also send a Beagle to dig right under or even over a fence, so any enclosures need to be very secure.
Their genetic disposition for hunting by nose equips the modern Beagle with an unusually sensitive sense of smell, not to mention a very strong drive to sniff out and hunt down prey. They are also dogs that are bred to live with other dogs in a large group. Both of these traits remain strong in pet Beagles and awareness of how to handle them is essential to having a harmonious, happy relationship with your dog.
The Beagle instinct to hunt and run in a pack does not lead itself well to training. They are independent thinkers who aren’t as motivated by pleasing you as other breeds. They can be stubborn and even manipulative. Consistent training is essential. Obedience classes throughout his life with reinforcement at home will go a long way toward a building and maintaining trust and can head off some of the most common behavior problems Beagles exhibit, such as housebreaking issues, howling, and digging.
Though Beagles present some challenges, they are well-loved dogs that can make a spunky, joyful addition to the right family. They are generally friendly with people and other pets, and do very well in a home with another dog, especially when their human family is gone long hours.
As when adopting any dog, it is very important to be well informed on the breed before you bring that little pup home. Keep an open mind and consider that an older Beagle may be a perfect option for you. Adult dogs will have grown out of their high-energy, sometimes destructive puppy behaviors, and may be more receptive to training. Take the time to meet many Beagles and find one with a good temperament to balance that natural spunk. Search breed rescues and shelters as well as reputable breeders for your ideal pet. And be prepared for a unique, stimulating, bundle of dog joy.
