How to Train Beagle Dogs

The beagle is a sturdy, small to medium-sized dog descended from the hound subspecies. They have a keen nose and a strong instinct for tracking, which has evolved from hunting rabbits and other animals. The beagle is a high energy dog that fits in well with a large family with children; however they are not suited for apartment living or being left unattended for long periods of time. Because of their inquisitive nature and background as hunters, beagles are easily distracted and prone to give chase, which makes training a challenge.

Things You'll Need

  • Treats
  • Collar
  • Leash
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Instructions

    • 1

      Begin training as soon as possible. Beagles are pack animals, therefore it is important to establish that you are the leader of its pack from an early age. This will help to prevent your beagle from developing bad habits that, once learned, are difficult to break.

    • 2

      Hold your beagle's interest when training as they are easily bored. Keep your training fun and encouraging but also consistent. Beagles thrive on positive reinforcement and will learn quickly when positive behavior is rewarded.

    • 3

      Take your beagle outside to relieve itself routinely after meals, sleeping and intense playing. Expect small puppies to need to go outside more often than older dogs until their bladders are more developed; this may be as often as once every hour. Pick up your puppy and carry it outside to the area on the grass where you want it to eliminate. Have patience and wait several minutes after it has finished to ensure that it does not have to eliminate again. When you are certain that it is done, praise your pet in an excited voice and enthusiastic manner. Tell your beagle that it is a "good boy" or "good girl" and give it a treat.

    • 4

      Teach your beagle the "come" command by taking it into a large room or outside in a fenced yard. Call your dog by name when it isn't looking and say the word "come." Move away quickly so that the dog chases after you. Stop and encourage it into a sitting position. Give the dog a treat and pet and praise it enthusiastically. Repeat several times before stopping. The next day repeat the process, each time rewarding and praising the dog until it automatically comes to you when called.

    • 5

      Put a collar on your beagle while it is eating or during fun activities. Once the dog is used to having the collar around its neck during these times, attach the leash while it is eating but do not hold it right away. Pick up the leash when the dog has adjusted to its presence and hold it for a short time while it walks in the house. Take the dog outside to a fenced yard. Hold the leash while the dog walks, turning clockwise when it begins to pull so that it has to hurry to catch up to you. Reward the dog when it stays at your side.