Charming and lively, Beagles love to go for a run around the neighbourhood before settling down for a cuddle on the couch. They are very intelligent dogs and terrific family pets.
Travelling through an airport? There’s a good chance you’ll be met with a soft, hazel-eyed Beagle nosing through your travel case. They are merry little scent hounds and very intelligent. Beagles also make good family pets. Their outgoing, friendly disposition makes them good play-mates for children and other dogs. However, they may take longer to come around to the family cat.
A couple of cuddles and your pet will happily turn strangers into new best friends, although Beagles tend to bark and howl (called ‘baying’) when faced with unknown situations. They love food, so keep your pantry locked and your bin clean. Although they are gentle, Beagles can be independent and stubborn, so keep dog treats handy during obedience training. A firm, patient and consistent owner will boast a charming, irresistible Beagle.
Fun fact: Former US President Lyndon Johnson had two Beagles
living with him in the White House, named Him and Her.
Young Beagles have a great deal of stamina – a daily brisk walk will help burn off their energy. With a good run across a field, your buddy will be cheery as you during happy hour at the pub. A fenced yard is a necessity with these scent hounds – a whiff of another animal or dropped pizza slice and your Beagle will wander off, risking getting lost. Having your pet micro-chipped and tagged is therefore essential. As Beagles get older they will be ready to race you to their favourite spot on the couch. However, they can become fairly lazy and content to lie around all day. Don’t let this happen, exercise is a must for a healthy pet.
The Beagle has a smooth, short-haired coat which is easy to maintain. Brush them using a firm bristle brush and bath when required. An occasional dry shampooing is sufficient. Check their ears often for infection and clean them regularly. Beagles shed moderately.
Scheduled six monthly health checks visits with your vet are important to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. This breed generally suffers few health problems, however some eye diseases occur in aging Beagles. Together with your vet, you can determine and maintain a preventative health care program based on the individual needs of your canine companion.
How big do Beagles get?
A Beagle is a medium-sized breed weighing between 8-14kgs, with a height between 33-40cms.
How much space do Beagles need?
Large dwellings or a yard are ideal for this breed.
How much energy do Beagles have?
They are the equivalent of a marathon runner, they just go and go and go. Daily runs and lots of games are ideal for keeping this breed fit.
How difficult are Beagles to train?
Beagles are very stubborn and tend to do what they please. Start training early and be consistent to develop a well-mannered dog.
Are Beagles suitable for families?
They are great family pets and loyal companions.
Are Beagles compatible with other dogs and animals?
They love being in single-pet households.
How much company do Beagles need?
They have a moderate to high need for company and enjoy spending time with their family.
Are Beagles a hypoallergenic dog breed?
No.
What coat and grooming needs do Beagles have?
Beagles require moderate maintenance. Brush their coat daily to remove loose hair and dirt. Bath them when necessary. They have a short, smooth coat commonly in tricolours, such as black, tan and white.
Do Beagles shed?
They shed moderately.
Do Beagles have a tendency to bark?
They have a high tendency to bark, so expect frequent conversations.