BEAGLE FAQS

There are many people in the world who have questions about beagles. Here we will try to try to answer some of the most common questions. Click on a question below to show the answer (and click again to hide it).

Feel free to e-mail us with any questions or comments you might have. We really do appreciate your questions and comments, so keep them coming. Also, it is important to note that we do not have all the answers. If you have something to add, please feel free to let us know.

My son wants a beagle. What can you tell me about their general characteristics?

Aside from being wonderful animals, the beagle is a small hound originally bred to hunt small game. Their high energy level, keen sense of smell and single mindedness make them excellent rabbit hunters and these same traits are what make the beagle unique and sometimes a challenge. If you are looking for a mellow, extremely obedient dog you had best look elsewhere! Some breeds of dog are designed to work closely with you, taking direction easily and following commands. Beagles were designed to follow their instincts and work independently.

Beagles can be spirited and mischievous. They will follow their noses with complete abandon whether that takes them into the woods or onto your kitchen counters! None of this means, of course, that beagles can't be trained. It does mean that beagle owners may need a bit more patience and lots of common sense. They will certainly need to use training methods that capitalize on the beagle's insatiable appetite and his desire to have fun, rather than methods that rely on "Do it or else!" tactics!

Is the beagle right for you and your family? Perhaps. Beagles are true "happy hounds" who's tail never stops wagging. They are small in size, have short, easy care coats and are generally friendly with other animals. They are also excellent with children if raised with them and treated appropriately. Beagles are versatile dogs that can go from hiking 10 miles to a lazy day on the couch. Most beagles are very demonstrative and will seek out the warmest spot on your lap or a friendly pat whenever they can.

What about adopting an older beagle?

Senior beagles make wonderful companions! They are not only great for senior humans but also for those humans with a mellow, easy going outlook on life. They can be couch potatoes who require very little exercise if kept on a proper diet (both the beagle and the human!) Please read this article on the benefits of owning a senior beagle!

I've heard that beagles are barkers. Is there something that can be done about that?

While it is true that beagles put forth a wonderful sound, not everyone enjoys it. Read this article by Kelley Bollen, MSPCA Western New England, Shelter Animal Behaviorist for the reasons beagles howl and some things you can do about it.

My new beagle is terrified of thunder. She cowers and shakes violently. Nothing I can do or say seems to help. I feel terrible! Is there something that can help her overcome this fear?

Here is some advice provided by the Humane Society of the United States. It is in pdf format. (Visit https://www.adobe.com to get your free Adobe Acrobat Reader if you do not already have one.)

I thought all beagles were black, white, and tan. But I've seen some that appear all red...or even yellow. Are those really beagles?

They sure are! Most folks think beagles only come in black, tan and white. While that is the most common color (and the one most used by film makers and authors) they can be "any hound color". A red beagle is also called liver and chocolate—not rare, but also not common. The discussion about color can go on for hours with many breeders giving different answers. Even the AKC has trouble with the phrase "any hound color". But be assured, beagles can come in many colors.