Trainability

It’s not that the Beagle is hard to train – well to be brutally honest they can be a huge challenge for some owners – it’s mainly due to the fact the breed can be a little stubborn. Creativity and variety is the key. You’ll need patience and some expert help in ensuring your bundle of fur is kept well trained and happy. But it’s also a good idea to ensure your trainer is familiar with the training of this breed. First and foremost, the Beagle is a hound. So, if you do not have a solid recall (AKA “COME”) you may discover that running after your pup while he chases a scent is rather irritating and incredibly scary (think traffic). It’s important that regardless of how difficult some Beagles can be to train, keep at it. They are a bree that will ask (with their loving eyes) “What’s in it for me?”. They are also very food driven so always arm yourself with a barrage of tasty morsels and keep it entertaining. Some owners do note that toilet training can be challenging, crate training can help immensely with this problem.

Grooming

A rubber mitt is a must with this breed. They do not require much grooming however, they will benefit from a weekly rub down that will help with the minimal shedding, mainly during seasonal changes. Plus; your Beagle will love the attention and it’s a good way to check on coat and skin health. You will notice that your Beagle’s coat will slightly thicken during the cooler months, and when it warms this thicker coat will then shed. They are a very clean and non-smelling breed, but being a scent hound if they find something incredibly smelly chances are they will not be able to resist having a good roll and proudly parading their pungent aroma around the home.

Exercise Requirements

Beagles need to be regularly exercised. The breed is very energetic and simply loves to run and explore. They excel in dog sports and any training that requires thinking and variety. Beagles that are not adequately exercised and trained can become very naughty. A bored Beagle will dig, howl and escape. Good fences are also a must with this breed, and they need to be Beagle proof…it is not uncommon to hear of Beagles climbing fences to find entertainment. Older Beagles will become lazy and will prefer a good sleep and a slow walk over a running escapade across the park.

Intelligence

The Beagles is a very intelligent breed, that can lead to stubbornness when training. Their sheer sniffing talents see many becoming proud (and rather adorable) sniffer dogs at airports and security check-points around the world. They are a loyal and loving breed. Being a scent hound this can get them into trouble as once they catch a good whiff of something interesting, the rest of the world vanishes. For this reason; training is paramount for safety and control.

Family Friendly

Beagles make wonderful family pets and are a welcome addition to many dog loving homes across the world. However, care must be taken around food as the breed is very food focused. Training your dog is also important as too early socialisation. Ensuring children are taught how to behave when your dog is eating is a must. Beagles are very friendly dogs and will make friends with anyone who they encounter. They do not like spending long hours alone and will thrive in busy playful households.

Indoor/ Outdoor

The Beagles is an adaptable dog and will happily spend time outdoors. However, this breed loves to be around people so expect your precious shadow to be alongside you during your time at home. They are very food driven so ensure your cupboards are correctly closed and dog food kept out of reach. You’ll be surprised what a Beagle can and will do to get some tasty food.

Breeding

It is very important to only source your new family member from a reputable breeding establishment, to ensure your puppy is healthy. Ask all the important questions about hereditary problems and ask to see mum and dad. Contact your local breed club and research your chosen breeder. Your breeder should have proof that they regularly test their dogs for genetic diseases and to ensure that the dogs they are breeding from have sound
temperaments. It may take a little more time than a quick purchase, but it can save you and your family from unimaginable heartache and pain dealing with a sick puppy.