We know the popular Beagle as a sturdy, small hound dog with beautiful, large brown eyes, and with those familiar long, low pendant ears. His ears require the most care, since his coat is easy to maintain and keep clean. His vocals are hard to ignore. This is a sweet, gentle and loving dog, intelligent and highly energetic by his basic nature and in greeting his human family.

An excellent family dog, he interacts well with children and other dogs; take care with other pets that he might perceive as prey, unless he is socialized early on with them. They can be stubborn, “independent” thinkers, hence the need for firm, patient guidance and training to bring out the best character traits of this happy breed. Daily walks for his mental and physical stimulation are a must for this excitable pet.

As is their nature, when they become fixed on a scent they are tracking, they can easily “tune out” any direction from their “pack leaders” so intent are they in pursuit of their prey. This is why the leader needs to be strong and firm to prevent their attempts to “run the show”. Know this about your Beagle to avoid behavior issues that could include obsessive barking, snapping and biting, and other destructive actions when left alone.

You only have to realize how your role as leader can channel all these behaviors to bring out the best natural Beagle traits. My two Beagles, raised from puppy hood, have always been given stimulating toys for indoor as well as outdoor activities; they have needed this for a balanced life. Much attention has been lavished on them, but we have been careful to discourage any “separation anxiety” when we must be away, by remaining calm and even tempered as we depart

From the beginning they have been an integral part of our family. They daily use their dog stairs and indoor dog ramps, introduced to protect their legs and backs in their daily travels to and from the sofa and our beds. Their bed dog ramps seem to be a special favorite when the children are doing homework in their bedrooms. We are ever grateful for these veterinarian recommended dog foam ramps that have brought an element of safety to our pets in their adventures around the house and bounding into the back end of our vehicle.

If you have a fenced yard for your pet to run and play and expend his high energy, all the better, but on your walks keep him on his lead for his protection and for your peace of mind.