Breed Focus: Beagle

Beagles are a typically and easily recognized breed (either by sight or sound)! They are consistently in the top ten of AKC most popular breeds. With an adorable face and a great personality it is not hard to understand why they are so popular. Beagles are a part of the scent hound family. Their nose is on the ground constantly in hunt of any fragrance. They were initially bred for pack hunting of rabbits. During hunts their howling, barking and baying can be heard from quite a distance! Prior to bringing this breed into your family, make sure that everyone is prepared for a very vocal pet.

 

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Overall beagles are high energy fun loving dogs! They need a lot of exercise or they will definitely get up to shenanigans in the house! There are a few general health concerns when dealing with beagles. They are very prone to hereditary seizure disorders. Remember to check health history on the parents of any litter you may consider. With their floppy ears they are also prone to ear infections. Getting puppies used to regular ear cleanings early will help make life much easier in the future should they get infections.

 

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Probably two of the biggest health risks for beagles are obesity and eating items they shouldn’t. Being in the scent hound family beagles are typically extremely food motivated. This can at times get them into trouble. Their adorable faces are very hard to say no to and many times they end up getting extra treats or food throughout the day. Although eating may be their favorite thing, it is important to stick to a strict diet so they do not get overweight. This will help prevent many other health problems down the road. Having owned a beagle for 13 years I can assure you they are excellent at finding food anywhere and getting into it. I have a very long list of things my beagle got into throughout her life. It is best to crate them when not supervised and try to keep any thing that may resemble or smell like food away from therm. While eating something they shouldn’t could just lead to some gastrointestinal upset, it could also lead to an obstruction that could need surgery.

 

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Beagles make great pets but they are not the right fit for everyone. You need to be prepared for a high energy, loud and mischievous companion. If this sounds like a good fit ofr you they will reward you with endless devotion and hilarious antics. For more information on beagles you can visit these two websites. (here and here)