THE BEAGLE

The beagle is a small, compact, short-haired hound. With ancestry dating back to 200 AD, the beagle was bred to track small game by scent. The breed, as it is known today, was developed in England. Sportsmen in North America imported beagles to hunt rabbit and hare, usually in packs or braces (pairs). Bench shows made their appearance in the 1800s, and the beagle became a popular show animal. Today, there are hundreds of beagle clubs throughout the US and Eastern Canada which carry out licensed field and pack trials. Beagles also compete in Conformation, Obedience, Tracking, and also in Agility, where their athleticism and problem-solving abilities come in handy.

MERRY LITTLE HOUND

There are many attributes which make the beagle a lovely family pet....for the right family. It is an attractive little hound, four-square, with a short, smooth coat. It has long soft ears and a gentle, pleading expression. A beagle ranges in weight from 15 to 30 pounds, and in height from about 12 to 15 inches at the withers. The usual colours seen are black, tan and white (tri-colour) or tan and white (also called lemon and white or red and white), but, as the Standard states; they can be 'any hound color'. They always have white feet and a white tip on their tail. The purpose of the white tail tip is to make them easy to follow in the field. Waving white tips clearly show the pack's location.

PERSONALITY

The beagle is a bright, inquisitive, active little hound whose hightly developed sense of smell makes him a wanderer by nature. He is hardy and talkative, quick to bark; some are even 'singers'. A beagle puppy is irresistible; but puppies grow up, and the beagle adolescence (six months fo two years) is an exuberant one. The pretty little puppy gets bigger and stronger, requires more exercise, and will chew anything in sight. Some dig and climb, so a well-fenced yard is a necessity. Contrary to popular belief, beagles do benefit from obedience training. A positive-reinforcement method usually works best. Most beagles will happily do anything for a tasty treat!

HEALTH

The beagle is basically a very healthy breed, but you should select carefully to avoid genetically-influenced problems such as: epilepsy, disc disease, thyroid abnormalities, hip dysplasia and 'cherry eye'. Ask the breeder what health screens have been done on the sire and dam. It is not unusual for beagles to live to the age of 14 or 15. At that age, they will require special care for some of the infirmities of age.

HEALTH CARE

As with any pet, health care is important. Hearty eaters, beagles quickly put on weight if the amount of food is not carefully monitored. You should be able to feel your beagle's ribs, and he should have a distinctive 'waist'. Proper early and continuing vaccinations, attention to worming (including Heartworm testing and prevention) are essential. Fleas need to be controlled. You will need a friendly and helpful veterinarian to guide you.

GROOMING

Regular, weekly grooming is necessary to ensure good health; and is an excellent opportunity to closely monitor your beagles well-being. Give him a rub-down with a hound glove or similar rubber brush to remove loose hairs. Nail trimming weekly helps keep the nails short with minimum fuss. Brush his teeth regularly, as recommended by your veterinarian. It is very important to clean and check your beagles' ears every week. All dogs are subject to ear infections, especially if the ears get wet. Never allow water or oils to enter his ears; plug them with cotton before bathing. A solution of alcohol and vinegar, or proprietary brand of ear cleaner, applied to a cotton ball will swab the ears clean.

HOUSING

Arrrangements should include a comfortable private spot in the house, such as a properly-sized crate (at least at night), a fenced yard for exercise, and escape-proof gates. Adequate shade, water, and protection from poisonous plants and insecticides are essential when your beagle is outside. Baby-proof your house before the puppy comes home, paying special attention to dangerous items such as electrical cords, plants etc.

MAKING A COMMITMENT

The beagle is an ideal pet for a family with children 6 and up, and for the family with one member home during the day. Everyone in the family must be willing to make the commitment to spend time, love and money on this fun-loving little hound.

REMEMBER: BUY FROM A BREEDER

Pet shops cannot be relied on to provide you with a healthy, genetically sound puppy; one whose parents were carefully selected to produce beagle puppies that will remain healthy in the years to come.