Lovable Hounds: The Beagle

Beagles are a medium-sized breed of hound withthough they do have some common health problems.
short legs and soulful eyes. The beagle comes in aThe beagle's ears are floppy and very long. This can
wide variety of colors, though the most commonprevent air from getting into the ear canals and
appearance is tri-color with a black nose. These dogsmoisture can get trapped in the ear, which can cause
are usually black and white when they are born andear infections in your beagle. Regular cleaning and a
develop their brown patches as they get older.diet including lamb and rice dog food are good ways
Beagles are curious by nature and this may maketo prevent this in your pet.
them harder to train because they are intelligent andAnother common health problem in beagles is obesity.
stubborn. The Beagle is a gentle dog, with a goodThis occurs when people overfeed their pet or
temperament, making this dog breed great for anyreward with treats too often because of their gentle,
age child. These dogs are playful, energetic, and veryexuberant nature. In a healthy beagle, you should be
loyal to their owners. Beagles, unlike other dogable to feel your dog's ribs and see an hourglass
breeds, don't just bond with one person in theirshape to your dog's length when looking at it from
home; they bond with the entire family.above. This breed of hound can also be prone to
Beagles are prone to separation anxiety becausecongenital heart disease, seizures, and arthritis.
they are pack animals. If you are going to leave yourThis breed of dog is very versatile. Beagles have an
beagle along for a long period of time, (ex. going onexceptional sense of smell, making them a great
vacation) your pet would do best being kept withcompanion for hunters. Because they are loyal and
other dogs or a person they are familiar with. If youvery gentle, they make great family pets. These
don't have a family friend your beagle can stay with,dogs are also often placed in dog shows because of
you should consider taking your pet to a kennel whiletheir beauty and agreeable nature. The beagle is a
you're away to lessen the anxiety of beinglovable hound dog, that is low maintenance, and very
separated from you.hard not to love!
Overall, beagles are a rather healthy dog breed,