Everything You've Always Wanted to Know About Beagles
But Were Afraid to Ask
by Lesli Hyland
The beagle is a small hound, originally bred to hunt small game. The beagle's high energy level, keen sense of smell and single minded-ness make him an excellent rabbit hunter, but these same traits can make the beagle somewhat of a challenge as a family pet! If you are looking for a mellow, extremely obedient dog you had best look elsewhere! Some dog breeds 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 in to woods or onto you kitchen counters.
None of this means, of course, that beagles can't be trained. But beagle owners may need a bit more patience and lots of common sense, and they will certainly need to use training methods that capitalize on the beagles 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 happy dogs. 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. If you have an active, fun loving family that is made up of true dog lover, then the beagle may be the perfect dog for you. If you are fastidiously clean, want robot-like obedience and expect a dog to be seen and not heard, a beagle is definitely out of the question.
