Beagles Temperament Makes Them Easy To Train

A happy, healthy animal always makes the best pets, especially when there are young children in the house, and the happy, go-lucky nature of beagles make them ideal to have around the house. Although needing plenty of exercise to help them maintain a healthy weight to ward off the development of hypothyroidism, the overall health of beagles is one of their features that make them such lovable pets.

Its use as a hunting dog dates back to the 18th century but its aggression with people it recognizes is rare. Strangers entering the home may be greeted by barking or jumping, making it a good watchdog, but typically a simple word from the owner will settle the animal down and quiet the barking. It may still want to sniff the stranger, but that is its way of forming recognition so they will be welcome on subsequent visits. This action should not be confused with aggression, as it will rarely attempt to harm a person.

Although relatively short in stature, standing between 13 and 16-inches tall, the Beagle is taller than the so-called toy dogs, making it an ideal pet for small children. Inherited health issues may include epilepsy, which can be controlled by medication, but Beagles lack the numerous problems that afflict other breeds. Hypothyroidism and dwarfism are possible with many beagles and their diet is especially important as they may have a tendency to gain weight. This is usual among animals that are maintained in an inactive environment.

Beagles trained for hunting and those that have adequate outdoor space in which to run seldom develop a weight problem, provided their diet is consistent with their needs. One of their physical traits, long eyelashes that contributes to their overall appearance can also cause problems, these long lashes may curl into the eyes and become embedded. But this easily fixed by minor surgery and by the owner being conscious of the possibility during grooming.

Their lack of aggression and small stature make them ideal playmates for other small animals and they seem to get along well with felines with similar personalities.

Their size also allowed them entry to many places larger hunting dogs could not fit. Heavy underbrush, while inviting to hares, proved no match for the Beagle and its sense of smell and ability track the animals into the wild.

One of the smartest of the dog breeds, they not only remember and recognize previous friends of the family they have met, but can also quickly master some of the most complex commands.

The all day hunters appreciated the instincts of a well-trained beagle is they could ride leisurely behind the dog as it chased the scent of its quarry into even the thickest of undergrowth, emerging successfully with its prey.

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