Pros and Cons of Beagle Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

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Posted Oct 26, 2024

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Beagle Dog by the Street
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Beagles are a popular breed for many reasons. They are relatively small in size, typically weighing between 18 and 30 pounds.

One of the main advantages of owning a beagle is their friendly and outgoing personality. They are social dogs that thrive on interaction with their human family and other animals.

Beagles are relatively easy to care for, requiring only moderate exercise and a balanced diet. They are also relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming.

Expand your knowledge: Beagles Good Guard Dogs

Pros and Cons of Beagle Dogs

Beagles are friendly, curious, and sociable dogs that are great with children and other pets. They are intelligent dogs with a keen sense of smell, making them excellent scent hounds.

A major con of Beagles is their strong-willed and independent nature, which can sometimes make them stubborn. They require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated, and lack of exercise can lead to boredom and potentially destructive behavior.

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Beagles are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, requiring only weekly brushing. However, they do have certain health issues, such as eye infections, ear infections, hip dysplasia, and epilepsy, which can be costly and time-consuming to manage.

Here are some key pros and cons of Beagles:

Loud

If you live in a city or have neighbors close by, you might want to consider the Beagle's loud barking. They bark more than some other breeds.

Beagles are known for baying, a high-pitched howl they make when excited or following a scent. This can be a challenge for city dwellers.

If you're looking for a quieter breed of dog, you might want to explore other options. But if you're willing to work with the Beagle's loud nature, you'll be rewarded with a loving and loyal companion.

Here are some potential noise levels to consider:

Highlights

Beagles are a popular breed for many reasons, and here are some highlights that make them a great choice for some families.

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Beagles originated in England and have a rich history dating back to Roman times. They were bred for hunting small game, particularly rabbits.

Beagles are a medium-sized breed, typically weighing 20 to 30 pounds and standing about 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder.

Their short, dense coat comes in various colors, including tri-color (black, white, and tan), lemon, and red and white.

Beagles are known for being friendly, curious, and sociable. They are often good with children and other pets.

Here are some key characteristics that make Beagles a great breed:

  • Friendly
  • Curious
  • Sociable
  • Good with children and other pets
  • Intelligent
  • Energetic

Beagles are intelligent dogs with a keen sense of smell, making them excellent scent hounds. This can, at times, lead to their strong-willed and independent nature.

Beagles are energetic breeds that require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Lack of exercise can lead to boredom and potentially destructive behavior.

Their lifespan is typically around 10 to 15 years, and they are known to be relatively healthy compared to other breeds. However, they can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies.

Physical Characteristics

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Beagles are a small to medium-sized breed, with two sizes to choose from: 15-inch and 13-inch in height to the shoulder. Those under 13 inches weigh under 20 pounds, while those 13 to 15 inches tall can weigh between 20 and 30 pounds.

Beagles have a sturdy build, with thick, muscular bodies and deep chests. Their straight backs and strong jaws make them well-suited for their original purpose as hunting dogs.

Beagles have a distinctive appearance, with floppy ears that are set low on their heads and a "pendant" shape. Their eyes are usually brown or hazel, and their tails are long and carried high.

Here are some common coat colors found in Beagles:

  • Tri-color (black, tan, and white)
  • Lemon and white
  • Brown and white
  • Orange and white
  • Chocolate tri-color
  • Red and white
  • Tan and white

Beagles also have a distinct "Beagle smell" that's caused by oils released from their skin. This smell can be strong and pungent, but it's something that owners often get used to over time.

See what others are reading: Dog Smell

Characteristics

Beagles come in two sizes: 13-inch and 15-inch in height to the shoulder.

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Their weight range varies depending on their height, with those under 13 inches weighing under 20 pounds, and those 13 to 15 inches tall weighing between 20 and 30 pounds.

Beagles are thick, muscular dogs with deep chests and straight backs, giving them a sturdy appearance.

Their heads are slightly domed with square-shaped muzzles and broad noses, making them look like a hound on the chase.

Beagle ears are adorably floppy and set low on their heads, often almost level with their eyes.

Beagles have a tricolor coat, similar to Foxhounds, but are smaller in stature.

It's common for Beagles to have a strong, pungent smell due to oils released from their skin, which can be a bit overwhelming for some people.

Coat & Colors

Beagles have a short, dense coat that's relatively easy to maintain. Their coat is smooth, hard, and medium-length.

Beagles come in a variety of colors, including the standard hound colors of white, tan, and black. Some of the most attractive colors include tri-color (black, tan, and white), lemon and white, brown and white, and orange and white.

Discover more: Pinscher Dog White

Cute purebred dog of Beagle with soft funny ears on blurred background of park
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Their coat is made up of a smooth, dense double layer that resists rain. This coat requires regular grooming to stay healthy, with weekly brushing recommended to loosen and remove dead hair.

Some of the most common colors for Beagles include tri-color, featuring a black saddle across the back and tan markings on the head and around the saddle, and red and white, displaying an Irish spotting pattern on the face, neck, legs, and tail tip.

Here are some of the common Beagle colors:

  1. Tri-color (black, tan, and white)
  2. Lemon and white
  3. Brown and white
  4. Orange and white
  5. Chocolate tri-color
  6. Red and white
  7. Tan and white

Grooming

Beagles require regular grooming to remove loose hair and promote new growth. They have a smooth and dense double coat that sheds moderately throughout the year, and more profusely during spring.

Weekly brushing is essential to prevent matting and tangling of their fur. This will also help reduce shedding and prevent hair from getting everywhere.

Beagles don't need frequent baths unless they get particularly messy. However, regular nail trimming is crucial to prevent pain and reduce the risk of arthritis later in life.

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Here's a list of grooming tasks to keep in mind:

  • Brush your Beagle weekly to remove loose hair and promote new growth.
  • Trim your Beagle's nails regularly to prevent pain and arthritis.
  • Check your Beagle's ears regularly for signs of infection, such as a foul smell or scratching.

By following these simple grooming tips, you can help keep your Beagle clean, healthy, and happy.

Training and Behavior

Beagles are intelligent, social, and great with kids, but they can be somewhat stubborn and difficult to train. They have a strong instinct to follow their noses, which can lead to distractions and difficulties in training.

Beagles were bred to work in packs, so they thrive on interaction and attention from their family members. They can become destructive or bark incessantly if left alone for too long.

Recall is a real challenge for Beagles, and they are an escape artist too, so good fencing is vital to prevent them from wandering off. They are also prone to following their noses, which can lead to them digging under fences or climbing over chain link.

Beagles need daily exercise and enjoy having someone to play with, both human and canine. Leashed walks are highly recommended, and puppy training classes and early socialization are essential to help them become well-behaved companions.

If you're considering getting a Beagle, it's essential to have a secure, fenced area for them to exercise and play in, as they can be prone to wandering off if not supervised.

For your interest: Balanced Dog Training

Trainability

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Training a Beagle can be a challenge due to their natural scent hound instincts. They're bred to follow a trail and can tune you out if they're distracted by a sniff.

Beagles have a hard time with recall, so it's essential to teach them to come back when called, but don't rely on it entirely. They're escape artists, so good fencing is vital.

Beagles are active dogs that require daily exercise, and they love playing with both humans and other dogs. This means they need a securely fenced exercise area and supervision.

Leashed walks are recommended, even for well-trained Beagles, as they can't resist the urge to chase a scent. A squirrel or rabbit might be too enticing, even if you can't see or hear it.

Beagles can be stubborn and difficult to train, but with patience, positive reinforcement, and treats, they can become wonderful companions.

Your yard needs to be securely fenced to prevent your Beagle from escaping, and chain link won't keep them in – they can climb over it.

Temperament

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Beagles are friendly dogs that thrive on affection and prefer to be around others. They are animated pets that love company, but can become destructive or bark incessantly if left alone.

Beagles have an independent nature and are known for getting along well with other pets and children. They are naturally curious and lively, making them a great fit for families with kids.

Beagles are prone to howling when left alone, which can be a challenge for owners. They also tend to be easily excitable, which can lead to destructive behavior.

Beagles are not good guard dogs, as they tend to warm up quickly with strangers and may even befriend anyone who walks into the house. This friendly nature makes them a great addition to families with a lot of visitors.

Beagles are pack dogs that require daily exercise and attention from their owners. They need to be supervised during exercise to prevent them from wandering off in pursuit of a scent.

Love to Dig

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Beagles have a strong instinct to dig, as they were originally bred for fox hunting and might try to dig a fox out of a hole. This instinct can lead to a torn-up backyard.

Their digging behavior is a result of their natural hunting instincts, which can be redirected into other activities with proper training.

Consider a Mix

If you're thinking about getting a new furry friend, you might want to consider a mix breed like a Beagle Husky Mix. These dogs can make great family companions due to their friendly and outgoing personalities.

Beagle mixes are often created to combine the best traits of two breeds, such as the Beagle's friendly nature and the Husky's intelligence. This can result in a dog that is both energetic and gentle.

Some Beagle mixes are more energetic than others, like the Beagle Husky Mix, which requires regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy.

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Other mixes, like the Doxle, can be more laid-back and easy-going, making them a great choice for families with smaller living spaces.

If you're looking for a mix that's a bit more unique, you might consider a Beagle Boston Terrier Mix or a Beagle Basset Hound Mix.

Here are some popular Beagle mixes you might want to consider:

  • Beagle Husky Mix
  • Jack-A-Bee
  • Doxle
  • Beagle Shepherds
  • Bogle
  • Puggle
  • Beagle Pitbull Mix
  • Beagle Boston Terrier Mix
  • Beagle Basset Hound Mix
  • The Beabull
  • Border Beagle mix
  • Poogles

Right Choice for First-Time Owners?

Before bringing a beagle into your home, consider the needs of a young family with very young children. Adopting a young adult beagle might be a better idea for families with very young children.

Beagles thrive when they can be an active part of their family's lives, which means they need your attention and interaction. A beagle will not be the best choice for your family if you work outside the home and your dog will spend eight to ten hours home alone.

Beagles can develop behavior issues like anxiety, excessive barking, or destructive tendencies if they spend too much time alone. They need to spend no more than four or five hours alone each day.

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Raising a beagle puppy requires a lot of work and time to train and socialize your young dog. You need to make time for house training, puppy kindergarten, or obedience classes.

If you do have issues with your beagle's behavior, you can consult a trainer or behavioral specialist to help you and your dog.

Additional reading: Beagle Dogs

Care and Maintenance

Beagles are relatively low maintenance dogs, but they still require regular care and attention. They need to be microchipped and wear identification tags on their collar to ensure a swift return if they get out.

A fenced backyard is essential for a Beagle, as they have a natural tendency to wander. It's also crucial to prevent them from becoming lazy and overweight, as they are prone to obesity. Regular exercise and a balanced diet are essential to keep your Beagle healthy and happy.

Beagles are prone to obesity, so it's essential to prevent them from becoming lazy. Regular exercise, such as two long walks every day, and a balanced diet can help keep them healthy.

For more insights, see: Lazy Dog

Feeding

Adorable domestic dog of Beagle in dog collar lying on fresh green grass on blurred background of park
Credit: pexels.com, Adorable domestic dog of Beagle in dog collar lying on fresh green grass on blurred background of park

Feeding your Beagle requires attention to their individual needs and activity level. Beagles need 3/4 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food divided into two meals daily.

The recommended daily amount is just a starting point, as your Beagle's actual needs depend on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. Active dogs need more food than sedentary ones.

It's essential to measure your Beagle's food and feed them twice a day instead of leaving food out to prevent overeating. Beagles are notorious food thieves and will eat until they're full.

To maintain a healthy weight, perform the eye and hands-on tests: look down at your Beagle and see if you can spot a waistline, and place your hands on their back to feel, but not see, their ribs without pressing hard.

Treats should be given sparingly, and small training treats work just as well as larger biscuits.

Exercise Requirements & Living Conditions

Beagles need a lot of exercise to stay happy and healthy. They require at least two long walks every day to keep them from becoming overweight.

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A fenced yard is essential for Beagles, as they have a natural tendency to wander and may try to escape. You should also make sure to microchip and identify your Beagle to ensure a swift return if they do get out.

Beagles are pack dogs that form a close bond with their human family, including children, so they need to live indoors with you as part of your family. They shouldn't be left in a backyard or outdoor kennel.

To keep your Beagle entertained and busy, make sure there's a nice selection of Beagle-friendly dog toys available. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are crucial to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

As Beagles mature, they might become more sedentary and content to lounge around the house all day, but it's essential to prevent them from becoming lazy and overweight. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will keep your Beagle healthy and happy.

Breeders & Costs

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If you're thinking of bringing a Beagle into your family, it's essential to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and safety of their puppies. Always buy your Beagle puppy from a licensed, reputable breeder.

The average cost of a Beagle is between $500 and $2,000, but prices can fluctuate depending on location, lineage, and breeder reputation. You'll want to find a breeder who uses healthy breeding stock and has had them screened for genetic abnormalities by a registered vet.

A good breeder will do their research and ensure their puppies are healthy and well-cared for, which is a crucial factor in the overall cost. It's worth paying a bit more for a reputable breeder, as it'll save you money and heartache in the long run.

Lorraine Stehr

Writer

Lorraine Stehr is a seasoned writer with a passion for storytelling. She has honed her craft through years of writing engaging articles that transport readers to new and exciting worlds. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for weaving words into compelling narratives, Lorraine has established herself as a respected voice in the industry.