A family pet can bring so much joy and happiness to every home. According to the American Pet Products Association, about 70 percent of households own a pet. Among these, 69 million own a dog.
The Beagle is one of the most popular breeds many families consider when getting a pet dog. It ranks 6th in the American Kennel Club’s most popular dog breeds list. And while there’s no doubt that Beagles can bring a lot of love and cheer to your home, there are a few things you need to know before bringing one in.
What type of breed is a Beagle?
The word Beagle is derived from the French bégueule, meaning “open throat” or “loudmouth.” This certainly fits their personality: Beagles are known for their friendly, happy, and playful demeanor. They’re also clever, curious, and independent.
There are many variations of Beagles, depending on which kennel club-recognized standards they follow. Some of the more popular ones include the following:
Blue Tick
The blue tick beagle is known for its beautiful blue and white patches. This variation is very active and loves to explore, making it a great companion for outdoor activities such as running, walking, and hiking.
English
The English Beagle is the oldest recognized variation of the breed and has been bred for hundreds of years. They’re known for their calm and easy-going personalities, making them perfect for families with small children.
American
The American Beagle is a larger variation of the breed, usually weighing in at around 30 pounds. They’re very active and energetic dogs, making them great companions for anything from jogging to obedience training.
The pocket Beagle is a miniature variety, weighing in at an average of 15 pounds. They’re very active and require a lot of exercises. Still, they’re also known for their loyalty and affectionate natures.
Is a Beagle a good house dog?
Beagles are great companion animals and can be an excellent addition to your home. They love being around people and are known for their protective nature. With a Beagle, you’ll never feel alone. They’re remarkably tender and love to be the center of attention.
Beagles are also an excellent breed for children since they’re gentle and comforting. Puppy care and maintenance might seem overwhelming. But with Beagles, it’s a bit easier because they’re good with children. They have a natural affinity for kids, and if appropriately trained, they can become the best playmates.
Is a Beagle a difficult dog?
Beagles rank 131st in terms of intelligence. But while they might not be the smartest dogs, they are certainly smart enough to learn. So, if you put in the effort to train them and provide a positive reinforcement-based environment, they’ll be well-mannered and obedient.
Does Beagle bark a lot?
Beagles are known for their active and energetic nature. They love to explore, so they’ll bark at anything new and unusual. This is why you must train them to know their boundaries and to respond properly when called. This will help prevent excessive barking.
Additionally, Beagles are known for their howling and baying. So if you have neighbors close by, it’s best to think of ways to keep them quiet. You might consider getting some toys that help alleviate their boredom and keep the noise under control.
Is Beagle a lazy dog?
No, Beagles are not a lazy breed. On the contrary, they’re full of energy and must be kept active. If you don’t provide enough exercise and mental stimulation, they can become bored, leading to destructive behavior.
So, if you’re planning to get a Beagle, you must ensure that it gets plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation. If you can do that, you’ll have an active and healthy companion for years to come.
How do you raise a Beagle puppy?
Expose them early on.
Early socialization is a crucial part of raising a Beagle puppy. Expose them to different people, animals, and even places, so they can get used to new friends and situations. This will help them become more confident and comfortable around strangers.
Create a routine.
Beagles do best when they have structure and consistency in their lives. Set up a regular routine for feeding, potty breaks, playtime, and bedtime. This will help your puppy become accustomed to the routine and build up trust.
Provide mental stimulation.
Beagles are curious and like to explore, so they need plenty of mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Teach them basic commands, play interactive games, and give them toys that provide enrichment. This will keep them mentally stimulated and help prevent boredom.
Schedule outdoor activities with them.
Healthy dogs require daily exercise, and Beagles are no exception. Take your pup for walks, set up a playdate with other dogs in the neighborhood, and even join a running club. Outdoor activities for dogs are a great way to keep them healthy and happy.
What do Beagle puppies need?
Like other dogs, Beagle puppies need several things to stay happy and healthy. This includes the following:
Health screening
A Beagle breeder should provide a health screening certificate detailing the puppy’s current medical condition. If they don’t, consider getting one yourself. Beagles need to be screened for genetic diseases and other health conditions, such as luxating patella or dislocated kneecap, cherry eye, epilepsy, and more. This way, you can be sure that your puppy is healthy.
Nutrition
A good-quality diet tailored to the specific needs of a Beagle puppy is essential. Look for food specifically formulated for puppies and have your veterinarian provide more information about what food is best for your pup.
Food and water bowls
You’ll need to get your Beagle puppy its food and water bowls. Stainless steel is the preferred material as it’s easy to clean and won’t harbor bacteria. You can also get a slow-feed bowl or an automatic feeder to help your puppy eat at the right pace.
Collar, leash, and ID tags
Beagles need a sturdy collar and leash for walks. Make sure to get one designed for puppies, as regular-sized collars can be too bulky and uncomfortable. You should also get your puppy an ID tag with their name and your contact information in case they ever get lost.
Bedding
Your Beagle puppy will need a comfortable place to sleep. Choose a bed or crate that’s designed for dogs, and make sure it’s the right size for your pup. Without proper bedding, your puppy won’t be able to sleep as well and can become irritable.
Toys
Beagles love to play, so you’ll need to get toys that stimulate mental and physical activity. You can also use toys to help teach your puppy obedience. Some great options for Beagle puppies include chew toys, puzzle toys, and interactive toys.
Grooming supplies
Beagles have a dense double coat that needs to be brushed regularly. Get a good brush and some grooming supplies specifically designed for Beagles. You should also keep an eye out for any skin issues or parasites so that you can get them treated right away. The loose hair should be trimmed from your pup’s ears, and nails should be kept short.
Can Beagle puppies be left alone?
Your Beagle puppy should not be left alone for more than 4-6 hours during the day. They’re social animals and crave companionship, so make sure to give them lots of attention and quality time. If you have to leave your pup alone for more extended periods, consider getting a dog walker or pet sitter.
Are Beagle puppies easy to house-train?
Training Beagle puppies can take time and patience, but it’s worth the effort. Beagles are intelligent and can learn basic commands quickly with positive reinforcement-based training. They’re also very food-motivated, so treats can be a great way to reward good behavior.
House-training your Beagle puppy takes time and commitment. Be consistent with your training techniques and be patient. With the proper guidance, your Beagle will easily learn the rules and be house-trained in no time.
With the proper care, Beagle puppies can be an excellent addition to your family. Before bringing one home, do your research and ensure you have the time and patience to raise one. With enough love, attention, and training, your Beagle puppy will become a loyal and devoted friend.