Beagle Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Beagle?

The ancestral history of the modern Beagle is a mystery. Ancient Greek documents from 400 BC provide us with descriptions of Beagle-like animals. However, when William the Conqueror invaded England in 1066, he took with him Talbot Hounds (which were probably used as hunting hounds). This breed of dog is now extinct - but they were the ancestors of the Foxhound, Southern Hound (also extinct), and the modern-day Beagle.

During and after the late medieval period, people kept Beagles as hunting dogs because Beagles have a strong hunting instinct. For instance, Glove Beagles were a popular breed during the reign of Edward II, Henry VII, and Elizabeth I (the latter kept Pocket Beagles as pets).

But by the 18th century, fox hunting became popular in England. Consequently, the humble Beagle had to make way for the bigger and stronger Foxhound. However, Beagles remained a popular hound dog amongst farmers in England, Wales, and Ireland.

After the Civil War, Americans started to import Beagles for rabbit hunting. In 1887, the National Beagle Club of America was established.

Beagles have even managed to reach the White House! (President Lyndon Johnson had two Beagles named Him and Her.)

Who are Beagle dogs best for?

Beagles are fantastic family pets. They are certainly the right dog for potential owners who:

• Have young children.

• Already own other dogs or animals.

• Live in a house that has a garden.

Beagles are ideally suited for people who want a:

• Playful family pet that enjoys human interaction (e.g. learning new tricks, dog sports).

• Loyal companion who will always be keen to go for a run or walk.

How much grooming does a Beagle need?

Grooming Beagles on a regular basis is necessary to remove their dead fur and to encourage the growth of new fur. Beagle owners should brush their pets (e.g. with a hound glove) at least once a week.

Beagles have a dense double coat that is smooth and soft. A Beagle's coat is also resistant to rainwater.

In general, Beagles are clean animals. So you only need to wash them once every 4-6 weeks.

Do Beagle bark much?

Beagles are communicative dogs - so they have a tendency to bark for many reasons. For instance, a beagle will bark when it is:

• Happy (e.g. when its owner returns home from work).

• Excited (e.g. when it sees other animals in the park).

• Worried (e.g. when it is suffering from separation anxiety).

Do Beagle bite?

It is rare for Beagles to bite out of aggression. But they will bite and nip when they are happy, excited, or bored.

The only way to stop this unwanted behaviour is through strict discipline. For example, if a Beagle dog gets too excited upon seeing its owner - then the owner should: (1) Say "Stop" in a stern voice, and (2) Temporarily deprive the dog of attention.

What is the temperament & personality of a Beagle?

Beagles are voracious scent hounds. Once a Beagle picks up an interesting scent - it will chase after the scent with a frantic level of focus and determination.

But Beagles are also very friendly canines. They are excellent family dogs and they thrive on human interaction. This delightful aspect of the Beagle temperament can be best summed up in the following lovely adage: "First they steal your heart, then they steal your bed".

What is the weight & size of a Beagle?

Beagles are medium-sized dogs that usually weigh around 10 kg /22 lbs (male Beagles weigh slightly more than female Beagles). But Beagles tend to put on weight with age because they become less active. So it is important to exercise Beagles frequently.

How much training does a Beagle need?

A Beagle dog can be stubborn and independently minded. This can make it difficult to train the dog - but it is not impossible, especially through the use of obedience training whilst the Beagle is young (e.g. with puppy training classes).

What are some of the most common health issues for a Beagle?

There are a few health problems that are unique to Beagles:

• A Beagle's ears are large and droopy. This makes for poor air circulation. Therefore, at least every two weeks, owners of Beagles must inspect their pets for ear infections and excessive earwax.

• Hip dysplasia is a common inherited disease amongst Beagles. The disease leads to the improper development of hip joints. This then leads to arthritis.

• Cherry eye is a disorder whereby a red mass/lump starts to develop within the inner corners of a Beagle's eye. This ailment can lead to complications like conjunctivitis.

What is the lifespan of a Beagle?

The average life expectancy of a Beagle is 13 years - though this can be extended to 15 years (depending on genetics and how well the owner cares for the dog).

How much should you feed a Beagle?

Beagles have an insatiable appetite! They eat everything and anything, all day long - even beyond the point of vomiting! So portion control is vital.

A puppy Beagle should eat two cups of dry dog food per day across two servings (i.e. breakfast and dinner).

An adult Beagle should eat one cup of dog food per day across two servings. Also for any adult dog, dogs treats should never account for more than 10% of the dog's daily food allowance.

What is the price of a Beagle in Australia?

In Australia, the average price for a Beagle is around $540. However, if you want a puppy with a superior Beagle lineage, then you might have to pay more than $1,500.