Beagles are loving and loyal companions. This hunt pack breed is full of energy but are also easy going so can fit well into family life.
All About Beagles
- Origin: UK
- Size: Small / Medium
- Height: 13 – 15 inches
- Weight: 10 – 20 kg
- Lifespan: 10 – 15 years
- Temperament: Loyal, Curious, Energetic
- Colours: Various Tri-Colour – white, black & brown
- Coat: Short, Double Coat
- Shedding: Shedding
- Energy level: Active
- Exercise Requirements: High
- AKC Breed Group: Hound
- Training: Moderate
History Of Beagle Dogs
Beagles are a dog breed that have been around for 100’s of years. They are descendants of pack hounds that were used for hunting small prey like rabbits and foxes. The history of Beagles is an interesting one starting with the “Pocket Beagles”. Pocket Beagles were smaller in size, standing less than 10 inches tall. It is said they got their name due to them being able to ride in the pockets of their huntsmen owners. Hunters eventually preferred larger dogs, which meant the rise of the Beagles we know and love today.
Jobs For Beagle Dogs
Although this breed is still widely used for hunting, they are also a popular family pet. Due to their great sense of smell, they are often used as bomb sniffers and as therapy dogs.
Choosing A Beagle Puppy
If you are thinking of choosing a Beagle puppy to join your family, there are some key things you should take note of when visiting them for the first time.
Overall Health
Does your pup look healthy? Your puppy should have bright and clean eyes. Beagles should have a natural friendly and curious nature so they should come bounding over to you with excitement. If any of the puppies are looking nervous or fearful their maybe some underlying issues so it would be best to choose another one of their littermates.
A Good Breeder
A puppies coat should be clean and free of any ticks or fleas. Healthy puppy skin should also be nice and loose with plenty of space to fill as it grows. If you notice any issues with their coat or skin it may indicate their breeder does not have their best interests at heart and have been keeping them in sub par conditions.
It is important with any dog to make sure you buy from a trusted breeder. Some dogs do have ‘accidents’ and their owners may not purposely breed their dog, but making sure they are bringing them up happy and healthy is key. One ways of doing this is to ask to see the litter with their mother and father so you can get a clear picture of their home environment. When owners have refused to show the moms and dads it has been found many of these dogs are from puppy farms which can cause all sorts of issues with physical and mental healthy in dogs.
Although Beagle’s are classed as a loyal and ideal family dog, puppyhood can be a challenging time. Their natural curiosity means they can get up to all sorts of mischief so plenty of patience and training is needed in the early years.
Beagles are also prone to separation anxiety due being bred as pack animals so naturally love the company of other dogs and humans. Plenty of early socialisation training will help them grow their confidence when alone.
Health Guide
Beagles are generally hardy, healthy dogs but as with all dogs as they grow older it is important to keep an eye on their health.
They are classed as a senior dog at approximately 9 years old. From this point it is important to get regular senior checks carried out by a vet to ensure they have no underlying problems.
Senior dog health checks can include:
- Physical Examination
- X Rays
- Kidney & Liver Function
- Urine Sample
- Stool Sample
- Blood Test
The easiest thing you can do is just keep an eye on your dog. If you see thier behaviour changes in things like their sleep, eating habits, weight, vision or hearing it may be time for a vet visit.
Beagle Coat & Colour Types
Beagle coats are double dense, water resistant and easily maintained. Perfect for a life outdoors. The popular tri colour version of their coat is the most recognised with a black saddle shape on their back. However Beagle’s can have a variety of colour combinations and markings.
Colour combinations can be a mixture of brown, white, red, blue, black, lemon and tan.
Grooming Tips
A beagle’s coat is one of the easier to groom. A quick brush everyday will be enough to keep it clean and remove any loose hair. As with all dogs their eyes, ears, teeth and nails should be regularly checked and cleaned when needed.
What To Feed A Beagle?
Beagles need a high quality, protein diet. Portion sizes should suit their size, age and how active they are. Lean meats such as turkey, chicken, fish are ideal or a high quality complete dry food from companies like Pooch & Mutt.
Adult Beagles require two meals per day whilst puppies will require more frequent feeding to ensure they are getting enough nutrients to help them grow.
Beagles can become overweight easily so it is important you work out the portion sizes specifically for your dog. A vet can always help with this if you are unsure.
Top Personality Traits
Beagles are known for their friendly and sociable personalities. Their strong sense of smell and natural curiosity they make ideal hunting dogs. However as family pet this can sometimes lead to problems with them running off to explore so good recall training is a must.
They are also classed as a high-energy breed so require plenty of exercise to keep them physically and mentally entertained. Due to their love of people they love playing interactive games with their owners. Games like tug of war and playing fetch are a great way to keep them happy.
Training and socialisation is a must for this breed but the more you give to them, the more they will give back.