Beagle Characteristics

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Overview

Beagles are a happy, cheerful breed of dog. They are playful, energetic and good with children, although they can sometimes be a bit rough when in an overly playful mood. Beagles are scent hounds, and have a keen sense of smell. When they pick up a scent, it is common for them to follow the scent, even if it comes down to ignoring their master’s commands. Beagles were originally bred for hunting small animals like rabbits and deer, but they are also great family pets. Beagles are curious dogs, who will wander off the property, if they pick up on an interesting scent. Beagles require fully fenced yards to roam around in (this should be a mandatory, no exceptions rule when owning a Beagle, as not obeying this rule will just end in tears).

Physical Characteristics

Beagles are a small-to medium size, with a compact, sturdy build. Their ears are long and floppy, with a rounded tip. They are typically tri-coloured, white, black and tan, with the variation of white and tan.

Social Characteristics and Needs

Beagles are very sociable dogs, and need lots of attention. If you are away from home for long periods of time (eg if you have a full-time job), your Beagle could become anxious and/or depressed. To keep a Beagle happy and mentally healthy, make sure he has a lot of social interaction. Ways of achieving this could be getting another dog for your Beagle to spend the day with, taking your Beagle to doggy day-care, hiring a dog-sitter (dog sitters come to your home during the day to give your dog fresh water and food, take them for a walk, or spend time with them playing), or getting a relative, friend or neighbour to spend some time with the dog during the day.

Exercise

Beagles are energetic dogs. They benefit from daily walks and play times. With a lack of physical stimulation, Beagles can become lazy couch potatoes, preferring to watch TV than to go for a run. This can lead to obesity, which will create more health problems later in your dog’s life (Beagles are prone to obesity, so it is very important that they are exercised regularly).