Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Beagles

Beagles have been used as hunting dogs since the 1500s. According to the American Kennel Club, they are said to be named for the French word "be'geule," which describes the braying sound they make. Bred for their keen ability to track animals by scent, they hunt fox, rabbit, quail and pheasant. Beagles make popular pets as they have a pleasant temperament and are highly active. They are often pets for families with young children due to their smaller stature and playful nature.

  1. Physical Characteristics

    • Beagles are between 13 and 15 inches tall and weigh between 20 and 25 pounds. This breed has a sturdy, square shaped body with a round head and longer snout. The tail is straight and medium length. Their ears are pendant shaped and hang low. Their eyes may be brown or hazel and set wide apart on the head, and their short legs may be bowed slightly.

    Personality

    • Beagles aim to please. Making its owner happy is the number one priority for most beagles. Beagles are natural guard dogs as well, so prepare for a lot of barking. This breed is known for its braying cry and tendency to bark at strangers, but the dogs are not aggressive. The territorial nature doesn't affect the ability to be social. Beagles love to be around people and other dogs. They are easily distracted and will follow their noses. This distracted nature leads beagles to ignore commands.

    Care and Grooming

    • Grooming a beagle is simple. The short coat requires little care and is one of the characteristics that make beagles so appealing. To maintain a beagle's coat, give it occasional baths with gentle soap and brush the coat regularly with a stiff brush. Use a dry shampoo on the fur between baths. Beagles tend to get ear infections, so check the ears regularly for signs of infection.

    Exercise and Training

    • Beagles are high energy and require room to be active. A home with a large yard or play area is most appropriate for this breed. Beagles need regular, daily exercise like running or fetch. Their hunting nature makes fetch an ideal game since they can find a toy and bring it back to you. Beagles, like all dogs, are naturally a pack animal, so homes with other dogs work well for beagles and provide them with playmates for exercise. They are highly intelligent and easy to housebreak and leash train, which makes them ideal as housedogs. Always walk your beagle with a leash, since it may chase wild animals, like squirrels and rabbits, upon sight.