beagles

Few dogs are as iconic as the world-famous Beagle. Compact, affectionate, and keenly intelligent, Beagles are the ideal canine companions. Beagles possess one of the most powerful noses in the animal kingdom, capable of tracking small game over incredible distances, and with surprising accuracy. From preventing smugglers with its powerful nose, to detecting termite infestations, and pet therapy there are few canine roles the Beagle is not equipped to play.

With its lovable personality, incredible nose, and superior health, it's no surprise that today the Beagle is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world.

Beagles have a gentle disposition and an even temper. Often described as merry, Beagles are affectionate, courageous, and rarely aggressive. Beagles love company and do not typically enjoy being alone. Beagles are not good dog guards and are more likely to welcome than ward off an intruder.

Beagles are intelligent but also excitable, with a tendency to bark and howl. These are characteristics that make it great at tracking down games but are not always desirable to new owners. Beagles are phenomenal with children and terrific family pets. However, they are prone to separation anxiety.

The merry Beagle is a smaller scent hound with an average life expectancy of 10-15 years. While the Beagle is generally a healthy breed there is a variety of health conditions that can arise in their lifetime. It is important to understand these health-related issues and to work with your veterinarian on preventative care. Always contact your veterinarian as soon as you notice any physical or behavioral changes. Your vet will most likely recommend running basic health screenings to diagnose or even rule out potential health risks associated with the Beagle.

Health Concerns
• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
• Dental Disease
• Musladin-Lueke Syndrome (MLS)
• Congenital Heart Defect

Minor Health Concerns
• Ear Infections
• Cherry Eye
• Obesity
• Epilepsy
• Patellar Luxation
• Glaucoma
• Hip Dysplasia
• Hypothyroidism

Suggested Screenings
• Eye Exam
• Knee Exam
• Hip X-ray
• Cardiac Exam
• DNA-based health test

Routine Care
• Neuter or Spay
• Regular Dental Exams
• Eye Care
• Ear Care
• Controlled Exercise

As hounds, Beagles are characteristically stubborn, determined, and single-minded which can result in a difficult training process. Beagles are easily bored and distracted and are amongst the lower degrees of canine intelligence.

Beagles are game hounds, bred to track the game and signal their handlers once they have found the scent. They are also bred to live amongst other beagles who communicate via howling and barking. Therefore, it is very common for Beagles to howl and bark at just about anything that comes their way.

Smaller dogs such as Beagles are susceptible to back, hip, and joint issues which can cause pain, bladder and bowel control problems, and even partial paralysis. To avoid future spinal issues, it's best to prevent your Beagle from leaping off furniture or stairs.

Beagles, with their long floppy ears and tendency to sniff their way into dirty places, benefit from a regular grooming schedule. Beagles need regular exercise if they are to remain healthy, active, and energetic.

Beagles are incredibly social pack animals who require regular socialization to ward off undesired behaviors. In addition to regular walks, it's important that a Beagle socialize so that it can experience positive social interactions with other pets, new family members, and strangers.