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| Feb 3 2007, 8:48 PM EST (current) | GoldenRetrieverLover | 546 words added, 3 photos added |
| Feb 3 2007, 8:44 PM EST | GoldenRetrieverLover |
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Though playful and good-tempered, Beagles are smart and independent. Training must be consistant and lifelong. Beagles need a job and direction and a good amount of exercise, particularly when young, to be happy members of a household. Read on and decide for yourself if the Beagle is a dog that you want to take home.
History
The Beagle, traditionally a favorite with hunters, possibly got its name from the Celtic word ‘beage’ which means small. This breed originated in Britain. Whether these small scent hounds are used in packs, pairs or alone, they have been a valuable resource for tracking down quails, hares, and pheasants.
Believed to be a cross between the Harrier and other English hounds, Beagles are loved for their energy and friendly disposition. Their instinct drives them to follow a scent, thus Beagle should never be off leash unless in a secure fenced (at least 5 ft) yard,an important consideraion when adding a Beagle to your family!Their keen sense of smell has also earned them an alternate profession as drug detection dogs.
Physical description
Beagles appear in a range of colors, including white, red, orange, tan, or blonde in color. With a sturdy build and a short coat, they are thirteen or under and fifteen to thirteen inches and weight can vary . Most Rescue Beagles are not the standard sizes.
Beagles have broad, round skulls; wide, long ears; and a black nose. Their expressive, pleading eyes are usually black or brown.
Grooming and exercise needs
Beagles are average shedders. Their short coat makes them easy to care for, which is a great relief for anyone who wants a dog but doesn’t have the time to groom it.
An occasional firm brushing and a mild soap bath are enough to take care of their grooming needs. A dry shampoo once in a while is all the pampering a beagle requires. It is advisable to trim their nails regularly and check their ears for any kind of infection.
Hunting breeds by nature, Beagles are very active and require daily exercise. Though they can be kept comfortably in an apartment, they must be walked or run every single day to channel their energy in a healthy direction.
Temperament
Amiable, friendly, and gentle, Beagles are excellent around children and families. Their loving nature and social temperament make them a hit with kids and adults. Beagles are also known to get along with other dogs. This breed has an independent mind and can be difficult to train due to their stubborn nature.
Training must begin early so that your dog can learn discipline right from the start. Beagles are not comfortable being left alone at home and their bark, though appropriate to alert hunters, may prove too disconcerting to family members and neighbors.
Potential health problems
Like every breed, Beagles have their share of ailments. Some of the common health problems faced by Beagles include:
- Eye and back problems
- Epilepsy
- Heart disease
- Dwarfism, affecting the dog’s front leg
AKC category
Beagles belong to the AKC Hound group and are known for their keen sense of smell and remarkable stamina. Other breeds in this group include Pharaoh Hounds, Norwegian Elkhounds, and Afghans.
Life expectancy
Healthy, well-cared for Beagles provide companionship to their owners for twelve to fifteen years.
