Who should own a Beagle?

Charlie Brown knew he was getting a great companion when he teamed up with his independent beagle pal, Snoopy. The good-natured dog’s small size and gentle nature make it a great choice as a family pet, and for Charlie Brown, Snoopy has long been a loyal and loving pal, although not without his mischievous side. Beagles are quick to share a happy grin, and will test you with their ability to worm their way not only into your heart, but also out the door, where they can track any number of intoxicating scents. A member of the hound family, beagles have highly developed senses of smell.

History and Training Advice

They were originally bred as hunters and their roots can be traced as far back as medieval times. And while that sense of smell has earned many beagles jobs as food detection dogs at airports, where they are able to sniff out contraband, it also can present a problem for owners looking for constant obedience. In reality, it is unlikely you’ll be able to call a determined beagle off a scent once they’re tracking something interesting. That stubborn and willful quality makes beagles a challenge to train, but patience is a virtue, and a gentle technique that includes food rewards — the tastier the better — will yield the best results.

Activity

Beagles require regular exercise, but younger beagles need more activity than older dogs, and in later life, a walk around the block where there are plenty of intriguing scents will be enough activity to satisfy this breed.

Shed? Smell? Inside or Outside?

Although they have a short coat, beagles tend to shed, so if you are fussy about your furniture, the beagle is not for you. Too, nothing makes a beagle happier than finding some noxious-smelling substance to roll around in, so if you live in the country and your dog has a lot of freedom, be prepared to give it lots of baths. Apartments make acceptable homes for the smaller breed, but the ideal home will include a fenced-in yard where your dog can explore. But make sure the fence is tall enough and deep enough for the wily beagle, which will jump or dig its way out in a snap.

Beagles Appearance

Beagles come in a variety of colors, with a tri-color combination of white, black and brown being the most common. Black and white and reddish and white are also found in the shorthaired beagle, which requires regular brushing to combat shedding.

Possible Health Problems

Because of their long, floppy ears, beagles are prone to ear infections, and epilepsy is also a common health problem for the breed. Too, because beagles love food, obesity is also a potential health problem, especially so since it’s tricky to resist that smiling face when it is asking for a piece of cheese. Some beagles may be prone to a condition called reverse sneezing, which sounds as if the dog may be choking, but in reality, it is drawing in air through its nose or mouth, and it is nothing to worry about.

Notable Beagles:

Snoopy is considered the world’s most famous beagle, but Odie from the comic strip “Garfield” is also a beagle.

Fast Facts:

• Beagles have big barks and are prone to baying if they’re bored or on a scent, so if you don’t find the sound melodic, skip this breed.
• There are two sizes of beagles, the smaller weighing from 18 to 20 pounds, and the larger weighing from 20 to 30 pounds.

• Young beagles need a lot of exercise, but older dogs will be satisfied with a scent-filled walk around the block.
• Beagles have one of the best-developed senses of smell of any breed.
• In 2008, a Beagle, K-Run’s Park Me In First, took home Best in Show at the Westminster Dog Show for the first time in history.

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