Beagle

If you are looking for a pet that is gentle, sweet, lively, and a happy little tail-wager, this dog is sure to be on top of the list. They have a very cheerful disposition and are perfect companions of children and adult alike for their playful nature. They can also be great companions with other dogs, but because of their hunting instincts, they should not be trusted with non-canine pets, unless they have socialized with other pets in early life. Their curiosity often leads them to trouble (they never stop looking till they find out what it is that they stumbled upon) as their instinct to follow their urge to explore is unstoppable. These cute and lovable pets love food and will eat almost anything, even to the extent of stealing food, (if given a chance) which makes them prone to obesity. Therefore, their diet must be carefully watched and should be fed with the right amount of food and daily nutritional needs, no more, no less. When it comes to their place in your home, you should ensure security of your most-loved and treasured furniture, especially when young, for this breed loves so much to chew. They love digging under and climbing over a lot, so making sure that your fence is secure is a must when they are around. Beagles have the capacity to give so much love to its master. Their loyalty is unquestionable. They are good watchdogs, with the tendency to bark in warning for they are very vocal and territorial when it comes to strangers.

The Looks Of A Beagle

Beagles have a smooth, glossy short coat which can come in a variety of colors from tricolor to black and tan, red and white, orange and white or lemon and white. They have brown or hazel eyes that have a characteristic pleading expression. They look like small English foxhound. The skull is broad and slightly rounded. They have pendant long wide ears. The height of a male beagle ranges from 14 to 16 inches (36-41cm) and female beagles at 13 to 15 inches (33-38cm). There are two height classes of 13-15 inches (33-38cm) and, fewer than 13 inches (33cm). Normally, the weight would range from 22-25 lbs. (10-11kg), for males, and 20-23 lbs. (9-10kg), for females.

Sprucing Up A Beagle

The beagle’s smooth short-haired coat is easy to manage. Brushing with a fine bristle brush, bathing with mild soap or occasional wiping with a damp cloth is enough to keep its coat shiny and clean. At least, dry shampoo occasionally. Trimming the nails and checking ears for infection should be done regularly. This breed is an average shedder.

Health, Lifetime And Dog Lineage

Energetic and full of stamina, these breed of dogs need plenty of exercise, and that includes a brisk, daily walk. It is important for them to have plenty of time outdoors, but always use a lead when walking this dog or you’ll end up running after its disappearing act. Bonding time with humans also helps keep them behaved and obedient.

Some beagles can be prone to heart disease, epilepsy, eye, and back problems and bleeding disorders. Some lines suffer from chondroplasia, or dwarfism (with warped front legs). Life expectancy is around 12-15 years. Litter size is about 2-14 puppies with an average of 7.

The beagle is a popular scent hound. Originally, from Great Britain, the breed probably originated as a cross between the Harrier and other hounds of England. They were first used in packs, alone or in pair for hunting hare, pheasant, and quail. They are also excellent narcotics detection dog. Having these qualities, these dogs became the most popular breed in the United States in the mid-twentieth century. The breed was recognized by the American kennel Club (AKC) in 1885. It was also recognized by CK, FCI, UKC, KCGB, CKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, and ACK.

Quick Facts

Alias:	English Beagle	Size:	Small
Training:	Low	Grooming:	Low
Shedding:	Medium	Exercise:	Daily walk
Energy:	Medium	Protection:	Medium, will bark at a strangers