Are Beagles Good Dogs?

by Marcel Dinkel

Beagles are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, and for good reason. They are adorable, friendly, and loyal companions that can brighten up any home. But are beagles good dogs? The answer is not so simple, as it depends on what you are looking for in a canine friend.

Beagles are good dogs for people who love adventure, fun, and socialization. They are curious, playful, and energetic dogs that enjoy exploring new places and meeting new friends. Beagles are also very affectionate and devoted to their owners, and they will always greet you with a wagging tail and a happy bark.

However, beagles are not good dogs for people who want a calm, obedient, and low-maintenance pet. Beagles are stubborn, independent, and sometimes mischievous dogs that can be hard to train and control. They also need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Beagles are not suitable for apartment living or for people who are away from home for long periods of time.

So, are beagles good dogs? The answer is yes, if you are willing to accept their quirks and challenges, and if you can provide them with the care and attention they need. Beagles are good dogs for people who are ready to share their lives with a lovable hound that will make them laugh, smile, and sometimes cry.

What Makes a Good Dog?

What makes a good dog? This is a question that many dog lovers ask themselves when they are looking for a new furry friend. Of course, there is no definitive answer to this question, as different dogs have different qualities that appeal to different people. However, some of the most common factors that people consider when choosing a dog are personality, intelligence, and energy. In the following, we will explore how beagles score on these three aspects, and whether they are good dogs for you.

Personality

One of the most important aspects of a dog’s personality is how friendly and sociable it is. Beagles are known for being very friendly and outgoing dogs that love to be around people and other animals. They are not aggressive or territorial, and they usually get along well with children, strangers, and other pets. Beagles are also very loyal and devoted to their owners, and they will always greet you with a wagging tail and a happy bark.

However, beagles are not very independent or aloof dogs. They crave attention and affection, and they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Beagles can suffer from separation anxiety, which can lead to excessive barking, howling, chewing, and digging. Beagles also have a strong pack instinct, and they need a leader who can provide them with guidance and discipline. Beagles are not good dogs for people who want a quiet, calm, and self-reliant pet.

Beagles are friendly, curious, and loyal dogs that love to be around people and other animals.

Intelligence

Another aspect of a dog’s personality is how smart and trainable it is. Beagles are considered to be intelligent dogs that can learn new commands and tricks quickly. They have a good memory and a keen sense of smell, which makes them excellent hunting and tracking dogs. Beagles can also be very creative and resourceful, and they can find ways to solve problems and get what they want.

However, beagles are not very obedient or easy to train dogs. They can be stubborn and independent, and they often ignore their owners’ commands. Beagles are easily distracted by smells, sounds, and sights, and they can be hard to recall once they catch a scent. Beagles also have a strong will and a mischievous streak, and they can be very naughty and destructive if they are bored or unhappy. Beagles are not good dogs for people who want a docile, compliant, and low-challenge pet.

Beagles are smart and trainable, but they can also be stubborn and independent.

Energy

The third aspect of a dog’s personality is how active and playful it is. Beagles are known for being very energetic and lively dogs that enjoy a lot of exercise and fun. They are always ready for an adventure, and they love to explore new places and chase after small animals. Beagles are also very playful and cheerful, and they love to join in games and activities with their owners and other dogs. Beagles can make you laugh with their antics and expressions, and they can keep you entertained for hours.

However, beagles are not very lazy or relaxed dogs. They need a lot of physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and frustration. Beagles need at least an hour of exercise every day, preferably in a fenced area where they can run freely and safely. Beagles also need a variety of toys and puzzles to keep their minds busy and challenged. Beagles are not good dogs for people who want a low-energy, couch-potato, and easy-going pet.

Beagles are active and playful, but they also need regular exercise and mental stimulation.

How to Choose the Right Beagle for You

If you have decided that beagles are good dogs for you, then the next step is to choose the right beagle for you. Beagles are not a one-size-fits-all breed, and they come in different varieties that have different characteristics and needs. In this section, we will help you find the perfect match for your lifestyle by looking at three factors: size, coat, and health.

Size

Beagles come in two varieties: 13-inch and 15-inch, which refer to their maximum height at the shoulder. The 13-inch beagles are smaller and lighter, weighing between 20 and 30 pounds, while the 15-inch beagles are larger and heavier, weighing between 25 and 35 pounds. The size difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the beagle’s energy level, space requirement, and food intake.

The 13-inch beagles are more suitable for people who live in small spaces, such as apartments or condos, or who have limited mobility or stamina. They are easier to carry and transport, and they need less food and exercise than the 15-inch beagles. However, these beagles are also more prone to barking and howling, and they may have a higher prey drive and wanderlust.

The 15-inch beagles are more suitable for people who have more space, such as houses or farms, or who enjoy outdoor activities and adventures. They are more robust and athletic, and they need more food and exercise than the 13-inch beagles. However, they are also more calm and quiet, and they may have a lower prey drive and wanderlust.

Beagles come in two varieties: 13-inch and 15-inch, which refer to their maximum height at the shoulder.

Coat

Beagles have a short, dense, and weather-resistant coat that comes in various colors and patterns. The most common color combination is black, tan, and white, but beagles can also be lemon and white, red and white, blue and white, or tricolor with a black saddle. The most common pattern is the hound color pattern, which consists of a black saddle and a tan head, but beagles can also have the blanket pattern, the saddle pattern, the ticked pattern, or the pied pattern.

The coat of a beagle does not affect its personality or health, but it can affect its appearance and maintenance. Some people may prefer certain colors or patterns over others, depending on their personal taste and preference. Some colors or patterns may also be more rare or expensive than others, depending on the supply and demand of the breeders.

The coat of a beagle also requires minimal grooming, but it does shed moderately and need regular brushing, bathing, nail trimming, and ear cleaning. Beagles are not hypoallergenic, and they can trigger allergies in some people. Beagles also have a distinctive odor, which some people may find unpleasant or offensive.

Beagles have a short, dense, and weather-resistant coat that comes in various colors and patterns.

Health

Beagles are generally healthy dogs that have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, but they can be prone to some genetic conditions that can affect their quality of life and longevity. Some of the most common health issues that affect beagles are:

Hip dysplasia: This is a condition where the hip joint is malformed or loose, causing pain, inflammation, and arthritis. It can be diagnosed by X-rays and treated by medication, surgery, or physical therapy.
Epilepsy: Epilepsy is a condition where the brain produces abnormal electrical impulses, causing seizures. It can be diagnosed by observation and treated by medication, diet, or lifestyle changes.
Eye disorders: These are conditions that affect the eyes, such as cherry eye, glaucoma, cataracts, or progressive retinal atrophy. They can be diagnosed by examination and treated by medication, surgery, or eye drops.
Ear infections: These are infections that affect the ears, caused by bacteria, yeast, or mites. They can be diagnosed by examination and treated by medication, cleaning, or ear drops.
Obesity: Obesity is a condition where the body weight exceeds the healthy range, causing health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, or joint problems. It can be diagnosed by weighing and measuring and treated by diet, exercise, or portion control.

To prevent or reduce the risk of these health issues, it is important to choose a reputable breeder who can provide health certificates and genetic tests for the parents and the puppies. It is also important to provide regular veterinary care, vaccinations, and parasite prevention for your beagle. Additionally, it is important to monitor your beagle’s weight, food intake, and exercise level, and to keep your beagle’s ears clean and dry.

Beagles are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to some genetic conditions that can affect their quality of life and longevity.

How to Take Care of Your Beagle

If you have chosen the right beagle for you, then the next step is to take care of your beagle. Beagles are good dogs for people who love adventure, fun, and socialization, but they also need proper care and attention to stay healthy and happy. Here, you will learn about some tips on how to take care of your beagle, covering three aspects: nutrition, grooming, and training.

Nutrition

One of the most important aspects of taking care of your beagle is providing it with a balanced and high-quality diet that meets its nutritional needs and prevents obesity. Beagles are prone to overeating and gaining weight, which can lead to health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, or joint problems. Therefore, you need to monitor your beagle’s food intake and exercise level, and follow these guidelines:

Choose a high-quality dog food that is suitable for your beagle’s age, size, and activity level. Look for dog food that has meat as the first ingredient, and avoid dog food that has fillers, by-products, or artificial additives. You can also consult your veterinarian for recommendations on the best dog food for your beagle.
Feed your beagle twice a day in measured portions, and avoid free-feeding or leaving food out all the time. Use a measuring cup or a scale to measure the amount of food you give your beagle, and follow the feeding instructions on the dog food package or your veterinarian’s advice. You can also use a slow feeder bowl or a puzzle toy to make your beagle eat more slowly and prevent bloating or choking.
Limit treats and table scraps to no more than 10% of your beagle’s daily calories, and choose healthy and low-calorie treats that are good for your beagle’s teeth and digestion. Avoid giving your beagle chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, or any other foods that are toxic or harmful to dogs. You can also use treats as rewards for training or good behavior, but make sure to reduce the amount of food you give your beagle at mealtime accordingly.
Provide fresh water at all times, and change it regularly. Make sure your beagle has access to clean and fresh water, and check the water bowl frequently to make sure it is not empty or dirty. Consider adding ice cubes or a splash of chicken broth to the water to make it more appealing to your beagle.

Beagles are prone to overeating and gaining weight, which can lead to health problems.

Grooming

Another aspect of taking care of your beagle is keeping it clean and well-groomed. Beagles have a short, dense, and weather-resistant coat that requires minimal grooming, but they do shed moderately and need regular brushing, bathing, nail trimming, and ear cleaning. Here are some tips on how to groom your beagle:

Brush your beagle once or twice a week with a bristle brush or a rubber curry comb to remove loose hair, dirt, and debris, and to distribute the natural oils on the coat. You can also use a shedding blade or a de-shedding tool to reduce the amount of hair your beagle sheds, especially during the shedding seasons in spring and fall.
Bathe your beagle once a month or as needed with a mild dog shampoo and warm water, and rinse thoroughly. Avoid bathing your beagle too often, as it can dry out the skin and coat, and cause irritation or infection. You can also use a dry shampoo or a wet wipe to spot-clean your beagle between baths, and to remove any stains or odors from the coat.
Trim your beagle’s nails once or twice a month with a nail clipper or a grinder, and check them regularly for cracks, splits, or overgrowth. You can also file your beagle’s nails with a nail file or an emery board to smooth the edges and prevent scratching. Be careful not to cut the quick, which is the pink part of the nail that contains blood vessels and nerves, and to stop any bleeding with styptic powder or cornstarch if you do.
Clean your beagle’s ears once a week with a cotton ball or a soft cloth moistened with a dog ear cleaner, and check them regularly for wax, dirt, or signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or odor. You can also pluck any excess hair from the ear canal with your fingers or a hemostat, and dry your beagle’s ears thoroughly after bathing or swimming. Be gentle and careful not to insert anything into the ear canal, and to consult your veterinarian if you notice any problems with your beagle’s ears.

Beagles have a short, dense, and weather-resistant coat that requires minimal grooming, but they do shed moderately and need regular brushing, bathing, nail trimming, and ear cleaning.

Training

The third aspect of taking care of your beagle is teaching it good manners and obedience. Beagles are intelligent and trainable dogs, but they can also be stubborn and independent, and they often ignore their owners’ commands. Therefore, you need to start training your beagle as early as possible, and follow these guidelines:

Use positive reinforcement and consistency to train your beagle, and avoid using harsh or negative methods that can damage your beagle’s trust and confidence. Praise your beagle and reward it with treats, toys, or playtime whenever it does something right, and ignore or redirect it whenever it does something wrong. Repeat the same commands and signals every time, and use a clear and firm tone of voice.
Focus on the basic commands and skills that your beagle needs to learn, such as sit, stay, come, heel, leave it, and drop it. You can also teach your beagle some tricks and games, such as fetch, roll over, or hide and seek, to make training more fun and challenging. You can use a clicker, a whistle, or a hand signal to mark the desired behavior, and to help your beagle associate the sound or gesture with the reward.
Keep the training sessions short and frequent to keep your beagle’s attention and interest, and to prevent frustration or boredom. You can train your beagle for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, two or three times a day, and vary the location and the order of the commands and skills. You can also incorporate training into your daily routine, such as asking your beagle to sit before feeding, or to heel before walking.
Socialize your beagle with different people, animals, and environments to prevent fearfulness and aggression, and to help your beagle become a well-rounded and well-behaved dog. You can expose your beagle to different sights, sounds, smells, and textures, and to different situations and scenarios, such as car rides, vet visits, or grooming sessions. You can also enroll your beagle in a puppy class, a dog park, or a playgroup, where it can interact and play with other dogs and people.

Beagles are intelligent and trainable dogs, but they can also be stubborn and independent, and they often ignore their owners’ commands.

How to Enjoy Life with Your Beagle

If you have taken care of your beagle, then the next step is to enjoy life with your beagle. Beagles are good dogs for people who love adventure, fun, and socialization, but they also need proper outlets for their energy and curiosity. So, let's learn how to handle this!

Socialization

One of the best ways to enjoy life with your beagle is to socialize it with different people, animals, and environments. Beagles are very sociable and adaptable dogs that enjoy making new friends and exploring new places. Socialization can also prevent fearfulness and aggression, and help your beagle become a well-rounded and well-behaved dog. Here are some tips on how to socialize your beagle:

Start socializing your beagle as early as possible, preferably between 8 and 16 weeks of age, when your beagle is most receptive and impressionable. You can expose your beagle to different sights, sounds, smells, and textures, and to different situations and scenarios, such as car rides, vet visits, or grooming sessions. You can also enroll your beagle in a puppy class, a dog park, or a playgroup, where it can interact and play with other dogs and people.
Continue socializing your beagle throughout its life, as your beagle may change or develop new preferences or fears as it grows older. You can introduce your beagle to new people, animals, and environments, and to new experiences and challenges, such as traveling, camping, or hiking. You can also join a dog club, a dog sport, or a dog charity, where you and your beagle can meet and bond with other dog lovers and dogs.
Be positive and patient when socializing your beagle, and avoid forcing or rushing your beagle into anything it is not comfortable with. Praise your beagle and reward it with treats, toys, or playtime whenever it shows curiosity, confidence, or friendliness, and ignore or redirect it whenever it shows fear, anxiety, or aggression. You can also use a leash, a harness, or a crate to control and protect your beagle, and to prevent any unwanted or dangerous situations.

Beagles are very sociable and adaptable dogs that enjoy making new friends and exploring new places.

Activities

Another way to enjoy life with your beagle is to engage it in various activities that suit its personality and needs. Beagles are very active and playful dogs that need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and frustration. Activities can also keep your beagle healthy and happy, and strengthen your bond with your beagle. Here are some ideas on how to engage your beagle in various activities:

Walk your beagle at least once a day for 30 to 60 minutes, preferably in a fenced area where your beagle can run freely and safely. You can also vary the route and the pace of your walk, and let your beagle sniff and explore its surroundings. You can also use a long leash, a retractable leash, or a GPS tracker to allow your beagle some freedom and independence, but also to keep an eye on your beagle and to recall it when needed.
Play with your beagle several times a day for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, using different toys and games that appeal to your beagle’s senses and instincts. You can play fetch, tug-of-war, hide and seek, or chase with your beagle, using balls, ropes, squeaky toys, or stuffed animals. You can also use interactive toys and puzzles that challenge your beagle’s intelligence and problem-solving skills, such as treat dispensers, food puzzles, or snuffle mats.
Teach your beagle some tricks and games that are fun and rewarding for both of you, such as roll over, shake, high five, or spin. You can also teach your beagle some advanced or useful skills, such as agility, obedience, or scent work. You can use a clicker, a whistle, or a hand signal to mark the desired behavior, and to help your beagle associate the sound or gesture with the reward. You can also use treats, toys, or playtime as rewards for your beagle’s learning and performance.

Beagles are very active and playful dogs that need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and frustration.

Safety

The third way to enjoy life with your beagle is to ensure its safety and well-being. Beagles are very curious and adventurous dogs that can get into trouble or danger if they are not supervised or protected. Safety can also prevent injuries or illnesses, and save you time, money, and stress. Here are some tips on how to ensure your beagle’s safety and well-being:

Provide your beagle with a secure and stimulating environment, where your beagle can feel comfortable and safe, and where your beagle can have access to its basic needs, such as food, water, shelter, and toys. You can also use a crate, a pen, or a gate to confine your beagle when you are not around, and to prevent your beagle from escaping or damaging your property. You can also use a camera, a monitor, or a speaker to keep an eye on your beagle and to communicate with your beagle when you are away.
Give your beagle a collar and ID tag, and a microchip or a tattoo, that contain your beagle’s name and your contact information, and that can help you identify and locate your beagle if it gets lost or stolen. You can also use a reflective or a lighted collar, a harness, or a vest, that can make your beagle more visible and noticeable, especially at night or in low-light conditions. You can also use a bell, a whistle, or a tracker, that can help you find and follow your beagle if it wanders off or runs away.
Provide your beagle with regular veterinary care, vaccinations, and parasite prevention, that can keep your beagle healthy and prevent diseases or infections. You can also spay or neuter your beagle, which can prevent unwanted pregnancies or behaviors, and reduce the risk of certain cancers or disorders. You can also insure your beagle, which can cover the costs of medical treatments or emergencies, and save you money and worry.

Beagles are very curious and adventurous dogs that can get into trouble or danger if they are not supervised or protected.

Beagles: Frequently Asked Questions

Even though we've reached the end of the article, there still might be questions on your mind. In the following, we will go over some questions soon-to-be Beagle owners often ask and answer them as concisely as possible!

How Much Does a Beagle Cost?

The cost of a beagle can vary depending on the source, the quality, and the location. According to the American Kennel Club, the average price of a beagle puppy from a reputable breeder is between $800 and $1500. However, the price can go higher or lower depending on the pedigree, the health, and the appearance of the puppy. You can also adopt a beagle from a shelter or a rescue group, which can cost between $50 and $300. However, you may not know the exact background, age, or health of the dog. You should also consider the additional costs of owning a beagle, such as food, grooming, training, veterinary care, and supplies, which can add up to $1000 to $2000 per year.

How Long Do Beagles Live?

Beagles are generally healthy dogs that have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. However, their lifespan can be affected by various factors, such as genetics, diet, exercise, environment, and health conditions. Some of the most common health issues that affect beagles are hip dysplasia, epilepsy, eye disorders, ear infections, and obesity. To prolong your beagle’s life, you should provide it with regular veterinary care, vaccinations, and parasite prevention, as well as spay or neuter it to prevent unwanted pregnancies or behaviors, and reduce the risk of certain cancers or disorders. You should also feed your beagle a balanced and high-quality diet, keep it clean and well-groomed, and engage it in various activities that suit its personality and needs.

Are Beagles Good With Cats?

Beagles are generally good with cats, as they are friendly, curious, and loyal dogs. However, how they get along depends on several factors, such as:

How they are introduced and supervised
The temperament of both animals
The age and training of the beagle

To improve their relationship, you should:

Introduce them gradually and carefully, and use a leash, a crate, or a gate to control and protect your beagle
Provide your beagle with enough exercise and mental stimulation, and keep it busy and happy
Feed your beagle a balanced and high-quality diet, and monitor its food intake and weight

Conclusion

We hope you have learned a lot about beagles in this article. In this article, we have covered everything you need to know about beagles, from their personality, intelligence, and energy, to their size, coat, and health, to their nutrition, grooming, and training, to their socialization, activities, and safety. Follow these tips and advice, and you can ensure that your beagle will be a happy and healthy member of your family.

Beagles are good dogs for people who love:

Adventure, fun, and socialization
Curious, playful, and energetic dogs
Affectionate and devoted companions

But beagles are not good dogs for people who want:

A calm, obedient, and low-maintenance dog
A dog that is easy to train and control
A dog that does not need much exercise and mental stimulation

So, are beagles good dogs? Yes, if you can accept their quirks and challenges, and provide them with the care and attention they need. Beagles are good dogs for people who are ready to share their lives with a lovable hound that will make them laugh, smile, and sometimes cry.

Thank you for reading this article, and feel free to leave your questions or comments below. Have a wonderful day!