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Dogs as Pets: The Beagle

By Kathleen Knowles

Introduction: The seventh in the series of Dogs as Pets

Choosing a dog to become a family member is a big decision. You must determine whether you want a mix-breed dog or a pedigreed one. A mix-breed dog is exactly what it implies, more than one breed of dog mixed together. A pedigreed dog is one breed only with nothing but that breed in the pedigree going back for generations. What size is right for you? Should you buy a long-haired dog or a short-coated one? A big dog or a small dog? In this series, we will examine pure-bred breeds only. So far, we have looked at several breeds. This time we will examine the Beagle as a pet.

The Beagle

The origins of the Beagle are somewhat of a mystery. References of Beagle-type dogs date back to 400 B.C. in Greece. However, they were well established in Europe in the 15th century as a small scent hound which was bred to hunt rabbits and hares.

General Richard Rowett of Illinois imported Beagles from Britain and started breeding what is believed to be the models for the first Standard of the breed. The first Beagle was registered in the United States in 1885. The dog’s name was Blunder.

Perhaps the most famous individual to own Beagles was President Lyndon Johnson. Other famous people who have had Beagles are singer Barry Manilow, and race car driver, Helio Castroneves.

Today, the Beagle is the most popular breed in the Hound Group (Group 2) with the American Kennel Club, and the 6th most popular dog breed overall. There is a reason for their continued popularity. They are known for their happy-go-lucky temperaments. Extremely friendly, they are not exactly known for being guard dogs.

Beagles come in two sizes, 13 inches and under (weight under 20 pounds), and 13-15 inches (weight 20 to 30 pounds). They can be found in the following colors: lemon, red and white, and tricolor. The breed is muscular. The head is slightly domed with a square muzzle of medium length. Its ears are long and droopy. The dog has a medium-length neck. The Beagle’s chest is deep and his back is straight with a tail that is carried high. The coat is short, smooth and dense.

Beagles have a wonderful temperament. Breeders describe them as “merry.” They contain all the qualities that make them a wonderful choice for a family pet. Beagles are extremely friendly, loving and loyal. They are great with children, and bond with all members of the family. The Beagle is a cheerful dog who loves affection. The breed doesn’t do well when left alone. They are known to be noisy and will howl and bark. As energetic dogs, they need lots of exercise and attention. A fenced-in yard is desirable, but daily walks will suffice if one lives in an apartment. As they get older, exercise may not be enough as they have a tendency to become overweight. It will be necessary to watch their caloric intake.

When it comes to other dogs, the Beagle does extremely well. So, if you choose to have a couple Beagles, you can be fairly certain they will get along.

They adapt well to most types of living, whether it be in your home or apartment.

Beagles are not hard to care for. The short coat will require brushing as the Beagle will shed. An occasional bath will be needed to keep his coat and skin healthy. As with any breed, his nails will need trimming on a regular basis. Care should be taken to check the ears as drop ears on a dog can become dirty, even infected if not kept clean. Brushing the Beagles teeth is essential to avoid tooth decay.

As with dogs of all breeds, the Beagle needs training. They respond to “treat” training. The breed does not respond well to harsh training. For that reason, positive reinforcement is much more suited for this breed as they can be a little stubborn.

Keep in mind they were bred to hunt rabbits and hares. If you are a hunter, this would be the perfect breed to accompany you on the hunt! There are kennels that can be consulted to help you train your Beagle for hunting.

Although, the Beagle is basically a healthy dog, there are some medical conditions one should be aware of. When purchasing a puppy, be sure the breeder has screened for hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, and luxating patella, which is a dislocated kneecap, as well as eye disorders.

Once you are convinced the Beagle is for you, you will need to find a breeder. As always, the best place to go for a healthy puppy is the national breed club. The National Beagle Club of America has a large list of its members; dedicated people who love and breed quality Beagles with health and temperament foremost in their minds. You cannot go wrong choosing a puppy from these people rather than “backyard breeders.” Good luck! You will enjoy many years with your “merry” Beagle.

Kathleen Knowles
Contributing Writer
Blue Water Healthy Living

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