Beagle Dog Breed:The Beagle is one of the oldest English breeds, known far and wide for its lovely appearance and a glorious sense of smell. They are full of love, which makes them great pets. The Beagle was originally bred as a breed to track small game, mostly rabbits. It still used for this purpose in many countries, including the United States.
Beagle’s wealth lies on his beautiful face, with large brown or hazel eyes. These are curious, smart, and energetic dogs that need a lot of time to play. Read more about this wonderful Beagles breed and some interesting facts about them below.
Beagle Stats at a glance
Breed Group:
Hound Group
Life Span:
12 to 15 years.
Weight:
Male: 10–11 kg, Female: 9–10 kg.
Height:
Male: 36–41 cm, Female: 33–38 cm.
Origin:
England
Date of Origin:
1300s
Ancestry:
Talbot Hound, North Country Beagle, Southern Hound
Price:
$350 - $1200 USD
Size:
Small to medium
Purpose:
Hunting Dog
Colors:
Lemon & White, Tri-color, White & Tan, Chocolate Tri, White & Chocolate, Orange & White, Red & White
Temperament:
Amiable, Intelligent, Excitable, Determined, Even Tempered, Gentle
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Beagle Characteristics
Adoptability
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1.Adapts Well To Apartment Living
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2.Good For Novice Owners
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3.Sensitivity Level
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4.Tolerates Being Alone
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5.Tolerates Cold Weather
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6.Tolerates Hot Weather
Friendliness
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1.Affectionate With Family
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2.Incredibly Kid Friendly Dogs
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3.Dog Friendly
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4.Friendly Toward Strangers
Trainability
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1.Easy To Train
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2.Intelligence
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3.Potential For Mouthiness
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4.Prey Drive
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5.Tendency To Bark Or Howl
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6.Wanderlust Potential
Health and Grooming
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1.Amount Of Shedding
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2.Drooling Potential
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3.Easy To Groom
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4.General Health
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5.Potential For Weight Gain
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6.Size
Physical Needs
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1.Energy Level
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2.Intensity
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3.Exercise Needs
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4.Potential For Playfulness
Beagle Pictures
Beagle Care
Beagle Health Problems
Like most breeds, with proper care, diet, vaccination, and regular veterinary checkups, you will have a completely healthy dog. However, often, in addition to the ideal upbringing and health care, Beagle can get sick due to harmful influences from the environment, and also from some hereditary diseases.
It is good to get acquainted with the most common diseases of Beagles as a preventive measure:
1. Intervertebral disease
The spinal cord surround by the spinal column, and between the bones of the spine, there are intervertebral vertebrae that act as shock absorbers and thus allow normal movement of the vertebrae. Vertebrates comprise two layers — the outer (fibrous) and inner layer, which is like jelly. Intervertebral spine disease occurs when this inner layer pushed into the spinal canal and presses on the spinal cord. Spinal cord compression may be minimal, causing pain in the neck or back, or it may be severe, causing loss of sensation, paralysis, and uncontrolled urination. Surgery is not always successful, but it is often needed to reduce the pressure on the spinal cord.
2. Hip dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is an inherited disease that represents the improper development of the hips, when the bony, fast-growing part of the hip is "loose" when it is not sufficiently strengthened by muscles, tendons, ligaments. Hip dysplasia is hereditary but can aggravate by certain factors such as rapid growth due to improper diet, obesity, and some injuries caused by a jump or fall. Some dogs have symptoms such as limping or pain in one or both hind legs, while others have no symptoms. As a dog gets older, arthritis can develop. With a consultation with a veterinarian, you will know what is the best treatment for your pet — it can be a cure or even surgery.
3. Cherry eye
It is an ophthalmic disease in which the gland protrudes below the third eyelid and acts as a cherry in the corner of the eye. The vet will have to remove that gland.
4. Glaucoma
the eyes constantly create and release fluid, and if that fluid not drained properly, the pressure inside the eye increases and causes damage to the optic nerve and results in vision loss and blindness. Primary glaucoma is hereditary, and secondary glaucoma occurs because of inflammation, tumor, or injury. In most cases, glaucoma first affects one eye, which will be red, watery, and painful. The dilated pupil will not react to light, and the front part of the eye will have a whitish, and sometimes almost blue blur.
5. Distichiasis
A disorder that causes abnormal growth of lashes from the opening of the sebaceous glands, which "run" along the edge of the eyelid. This causes eye irritation, and you notice that your dog blinks or rubs eye. Distichiasis treated surgically by freezing excess lashes with liquid nitrogen and then removing them. This type of surgery performs under total anesthesia.
6. Hypothyroidism
A disorder of the thyroid gland. It treats with drugs and diet reduction.
7. Chinese Beagle Syndrome
This is a condition characterized by a wide skull and slanted eyes. The dog grows normally. Dogs with CBS often have heart disease and paw irregularities.
These can be easily addressed at the vet, and do not post a large risk to your dog's life. They are important to get addressed quickly, but most of these problems show up later in your dog's life.
In order for your pup to have the best life, combine regular exercise with a healthy diet and regular visits to the veterinarian. Additionally, show them love and affection every day, and refrain from chaining them up or restricting their movement which causes stress and aggression. A happy dog is a healthy dog, and a healthy dog will live a full and memorable life.
Beagle Grooming
You should brush Beagle at least once a week to remove undercoat so that the hair can grow normally. They shed, but since they have short hair, it doesn't go unnoticed. Beagles shed the most in the spring because their hair becomes thicker in the winter.
They do not require frequent bathing, because they are very clean, except when you have to bathe them if they have an unpleasant odor.
Beagles often have ear infections. Examine them at least every two weeks, and if you notice that your Beagle is shaking head or scratching its ears, take it to the vet immediately. Wipe the ear once a week with a cotton swab soaked in PH balanced ear cleaner.
Brush their teeth two or three times a week to remove dental plaque and prevent bacteria from growing. Daily brushing is best because that way you prevent gum disease and keep the teeth of your beloved Beagle healthy.
Cut Beagle's nails as needed, preferably once or twice a month. Short nails keep the paws in good condition and prevent pain and injuries to your pet.
While brushing Beagle, pay attention to whether there are wounds, rashes, or signs of some infections such as redness, or inflammation of the skin, ears, nose, oral cavity, eyes, and paws. The eyes should be clean, without redness. These examinations will help you to notice some health problems in time and thus help your pet.
Beagle Nutrition
How much an adult Beagle eats depends on its age, metabolism, size, and activity levels. Beagle's entire diet must contain:
- Protein — to develop and maintain muscle
- Fat — gives the body the energy it needs and is important for skin and hair health
- Carbohydrates — a source of energy
- Minerals — calcium and phosphorus for healthy bones and teeth.
- Vitamins — vitamin And for good eyesight, vitamin E and C for immunity.
You may remember the famous cartoon "Snoopy", whose character is modeled on this breed and who can rarely resist a bowl of food during its adventures. The Beagle will often overeat, if you let it, make sure your groceries are out of its reach and that your kitchen cabinets are tightly closed. Otherwise, your Beagle will find its way to them using an extraordinary sense of smell.
Beagle should be fed high-quality dog food, whether commercially produced or prepared for home use, under the supervision and approval of a veterinarian.
Each diet should be appropriate for the age of the dog. Beagle puppies should be fed granules and other food adapted to this breed, to ensure its proper growth and development. Keep in mind that the Beagle is a dog that is always hungry and can always eat. Your adult Beagle will enjoy chicken, turkey, beef, lamb, it will gladly eat carrots, rice, cereals, Carbohydrate intake must be controlled.
Some dogs are prone to being overweight, so pay attention to your calorie expenditure and your Beagle's weight level.
Beagle Appearance
General appearance — powerful hunting dog, harmonious build, robust constitution, but without rough characteristics. The breed characterizes by miniature build, but also impressive strength and endurance. The muzzle is cube-shaped. They have a nose with pronounced nostrils and round and firm legs. Their fur is of medium length, and their eyes are brown or hazel. The normal height of males consider being the range of 14 to 16 inches (ca. 41 cm), and females of 12 to 14 inches (ca. 36 cm). Males weigh from 10 to 11 kg, while females are slightly lighter from 9 to 10 kg.
Color — tricolor (black, light brown and white), brown-white, red-white, orange-white. The hair is short, thick, and resistant to various weather conditions. The tip of the tail is white.
Head — is long, strong, but not rough contours, it is more beautiful in females, without wrinkles.
Skull — slightly rounded, of medium width, with a slight elevation.
Ears — long with rounded tips. They are set low and hang elegantly along the cheeks.
Neck — long enough for the dog to bend and sniff.
Tail — firm, medium length. It is very well hairy, especially on the underside.
Movement — the back is firm and there are no signs of oscillations in the movement. Walking is free, a glorious conquest of the terrain with the front legs that are straight and moves them with little effort; the thrust of the hind legs is visible.
Beagle Temperament
Common personality traits of a Beagle are:
- Amiable
- Intelligent
- Excitable
- Determined
- Even Tempered
- Gentle
It is very difficult to resist their hazel eyes, gentle, and kind. They are cheerful dogs, sociable, friendly to people, and other dogs.
They have several types of vocalization — they are noisy, and their barking can define as melodic howling and muttering.
The most important thing you need to know about this breed is that the Beagle is an actual hunting dog, a “sniffer”. The nose is the most important part of its anatomy, making it an outstanding tracker. Beagle’s hunting nature is curious, determined, and food-focused.
Thanks to these instincts, you can often see Beagle “employed” at many airports. Today, members of the “Beagle Brigade” are successfully “patrolling” more than 20 international airports in the United States.
If they smell something tempting, nothing else will interest them.
If you take the Beagle, be prepared, and arm yourself with great patience to train your pet well and control excessive barking and howling. But keep in mind the fact that a dog is not a toy, but a responsibility, and that you need to put a lot of effort into working with it.
Although gentle and kind, they also carry an independent, stubborn trait in their genetics. Obedience training recommended for socialization. Beagles respond well to positive reviews.
Adult Beagles have a lot of energy and will enjoy all activities with you, from walking on the field to running in the morning. However, do not overdo with excessive fatigue of the dog, at least until it is 18 months old.
Beagle is characterized by exceptional intelligence as one of the most pronounced qualities. It enjoys learning while having fun. Beagle is loyal and faithful, it will be very happy to fulfill the requirements you have set.
Beagle will make you laugh all the time.
Suitable behavior requires timely training, and exposing your Beagle to different sounds, situations, people, to grow up as a well-behaved dog.
Beagles are very active and need daily physical activity. Besides walking on a leash, you need to let them run, jump, and climb wherever they can. They are very social dogs, so besides spending time with the owner and his family, they also need the company of other dogs.
History and origin of the Beagle breed
This sympathetic breed originates from the United Kingdom. Greek documents from 400 BC describe beagle-like dogs, and there are indications that the Romans brought small rabbit-hunting dogs to England and bred them there together with local hunting dogs.
During Norman’s conquest of England in 1066, William the Conqueror brought Talbot hunting dogs, which later became extinct. These dogs are considered the ancestors of beagles and fox terriers.
The Beagle originated around the 14th century. It is most likely a descendant of gigantic English hounds. From 1300, some small hunters followed the hunters on foot, mostly in hunting rabbits, but the very name Beagle does not appear until 1475.
During the reigns of Edward II (1307-1327) and Henry VII (1485-1509), very small beagles were popular, called “glove beagles”. Hunting was very popular in England in those years, especially rabbit hunting. As it proved to be an exceptional hunting dog, an increasing number of breeders were interested in the Beagle breed.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) and the National Beagle Club were founded in 1884. The AKC registered its first Beagle, in 1885.
Beagle FAQ
What is a Beagle's life expectancy?
With proper care, nutrition, attention, physical activity, the life expectancy of the Beagle is in the range of 10 to 15 years, which makes it one of the longest-lived breeds.
Do Beagles make good apartment pets?
Beagle is a great apartment pet. Although it is desirable to live in a house with the owner, you must provide it with a large space and a fenced, sheltered yard, because of their curiosity and hunting nature. Beagle can live in the yard, but as it cannot stand the cold, it should have a warm shelter or a house. The place where it sleeps should be dry, warm, and comfortable so that the Beagle can rest and be ready for everyday activities.
Do Beagles shed a lot of hair?
The beagle has a double coat that sheds a lot but is easy to maintain. It sheds all year round and you need to brush it weekly to remove dead hair and keep it clean and healthy. As Beagle's hair becomes thicker during the winter, it will shed more in the spring.
Are Beagles good with children?
Beagles are extremely attached to all family members, especially children. However, they can often be clumsy in the game, so the interaction between Beagle and the child should be controlled by someone older. Teach your child never to pull a dog by the ears or tail, not to approach the dog during a meal or sleep, or to try to take away a bowl of food. No matter how friendly the dog is, precisely because of the many unforeseen situations, always supervise Beagle and your child.
Are Beagles a good family dog?
The Beagle is an ideal dog for all family members. It is a dog for everyone who wants a cute but active pet. With a good upbringing and enough physical activity, the Beagle will become an ideal family dog