Beagle
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Appearance
| Beagle Quick Summary | |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | |
| Origin | Britain |
| Size | Small-medium |
| Height (at withers) | 11-15in (28-38cm) |
| Weight | 20-25lbs (9-11kg) |
| Hair Colour(s) | Varies |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Energy Level | High |
| Litter size | 2-14 |
| Shedding | Medium |
| Grooming | Low |
| Barking Tendency | Medium |
| Exercise requirements | High |
| Ease of training | Medium |
| Suitability for kids | High |
| Animal compatability | High |
| Aggression levels | Low |
| Distress if left | |
The Beagle is a small but sturdy intelligent looking hound that bears a resemblance to the English Foxhound. It has a wide, round head, a square muzzle, wide nostrils, dark eyes and long and broad pendulous ears. It has circular feet and carries its tail in a lively manner. The coat is short and sleek but dense, and the colouring varies with the most common being the triple combination of black, tan and white. Other colouring includes red and white, tan and white, lemon and white and blue shading.
Temperament
Beagles tend to have a bright and cheerful disposition and make great companion dogs. Playful, good natured and sociable, they are suitable for inexperienced and experienced dog owners alike, although consistent obedience training is essential as they can be stubborn and also very difficult to housebreak. They also have a tendency to wander off and explore, which means they should only be exercised in secure, fenced areas when off the leash. And these areas really must be secure, as they are excellent diggers and climbers and will dig under or climb over a fence if they set their mind to it. Beagles are suitable for families with children and also enjoy the company of other dogs, however, they do have a tendency to chase smaller animals. They can be vocal and territorial towards strangers, and combined with their alertness and tendency to bark as a warning, this makes them good watchdogs. Chewing can be a problem in younger Beagles, and as they love food, they will steal it whenever given the chance.
History & Skills
Beagles originate from Great Britain and have a history going back centuries, at least since the time of King Henry VIII. They were originally bred for hunting hares and made good hunting companions as their size meant they could easily follow on foot. Beagles became extremely popular in the USA in the mid 1900s, having become popular in conformation and field competitions. These days they are popular in rabbit trailing, detection of illegal goods, and beagle field trials. They make popular family pets and alhough still good hunting aids, they need carrying across rough terrain.
Breed Specific Ailments
Beagles tend to live between 12-15 years. Some of the health problems associated with this breed include cataracts, Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cleft lip, back problems, heart disease, thyroid problems, glaucoma, hip dysplasia, bleeding disorders,dwarfism and epilepsy.
Grooming
Beagles have short and sleek coats that are pretty low maintenance, and they are medium shedders. It only needs an occasional quick brushing and wipe down with a damp cloth to keep it in good, glossy condition. The ears should be cleaned regularly to reduce the chances of infections. The nails should be trimmed regularly too.
Exercise & Environment
Beagles need a lot of exercise, and this can be satisfied through a daily brisk walk on leash and allowing it to play in a decent sized yard or garden. they can live outdoors in temperate climates so long as they have access to warm shelter with bedding, but prefers to share space with its family.