Happiness is A Warm Beagle

The beagle is a member of the Hound Group, and was traditionally used as a hunting dog. Many beagles are still being used as hunting dogs, thanks to their small size, and great nose!
In fact, because of their great sense of smell, beagles have been used to detect drugs and other illegal substances.

The beagle looks very much like a mini Foxhound. However, beagles have shorter muzzles, and broader heads.
Beagles are small dogs, usually between 13 and 16 inches. Beagles should weigh no more than 35lbs( watch that cookie jar!!) and require exercise and activity everyday.
The most common color in beagles is tricolor, but they can have any hound colors. It is not unusual for a beagles markings to change as they age.
Most beagles have a white tipped tail, it is said to have been used by hunters to find their dogs while on the trail.

Bernice in her Disney hat.

Max with his bandana.

So you want a beagle?
Great!
However there are several things you must consider first.

Space: Beagles love to run, and the more space the better! They are active dogs and should be walked or exercised daily. Beagles will tend to hunt small animals, and this may result in digging, climbing, or jumping over fences. Please be sure to keep an eye on your beagle even if you have a fenced in yard!.
You may wish to do a daily check of the yard for any new holes that need to be filled, especially near the fence line, or in walking paths.

Noise: You know what I'm talking about, that "O so cute unless its 2 in the morning bay". Beagles howl, a lot. So please take that into consideration. Training can help prevent ecsessive barking, but you can't stop it completely.

Time: I can't stress this one enough. DOGS ARE A FULL TIME COMMITMENT! They do not like to be locked in cages all day and require lots of attention. If your plan was to have the dog in a crate all day while you work, please reconsider.

Training: Again, this is a full time commitment; you have to constantly work with your beagle to help him train. Do not punish your puppy for piddling on the floor, that is what puppies do! Learn the correct ways to housetrain your dog and stick with it!

Temperament: You want a cute, cuddly, happy companion so make sure you are firm without being scary, and never, ever, hit your dog.
Beagles are very loyal and pretty low-key, making for great companions.

Money: Beagles, as well as all other pets need regular vet care, starting with shots. This is essential to keeping him healthy!

This is of course just the very basics of dog ownership, but I do hope you take these into consideration when looking for your new family member

As anyone who has ever gotten the pleasure of going on a midnight hunt for their beagle, more often than not, said beagle is found....eating. Yes eating. And I don't mean kibble. Beagles are fantastic at finding snacks just about anywhere. Bread, potatoes, candy, pretty much anything that can possibly be within the range of beagle abilities, are at risk. The backyard also offers some tasty treats for a hungry, or bored beagle. Sticks, rocks, rodents, and birds happen to be a favorite of mine, but many other items may look tasty. While these items are mostly harmless, you need to keep an eye on your beagle, to ensure that even if it does find something to munch on, it doesnt choke. Of course ideally they shouldnt eat these things, but things happen. Please do take extra care however, to keep all medicines, chemicals, and pesticides far out of reach, as we never know what our beagle may be craving next!

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