The Beagle is the 7th most popular dog breed in 2021, per the American Kennel Club’s list. So if you’re thinking of adding a Beagle to your family, you’re not alone! But before you start your search for Beagle puppies near me, there are a few things you should consider first.
Beagles were bred as hunting dogs, so they have a lot of energy and need plenty of exercises. A daily walk or run is a must, along with some playtime in the yard or at the park. Beagles are also vocal dogs, so this may not be the right breed for you if you live in an apartment or close quarters.
Beagles are friendly and loving dogs, but they can also be stubborn. Training requires patience and consistency, but they will learn quickly with positive reinforcement.
10 Things to Consider Before Buying a Beagle Puppy
So, you’ve fallen in love with owning a beagle. But before you take the plunge and bring one home, you should consider a few things. Here are ten things to think about before buying a beagle puppy:
1. History and Background
All dog breeds have a unique history and background, and the Beagle is no different. Bred as hunting dogs in England, they were used to track rabbits and hares. Today, they are one of the most popular family pets in the world.
When looking for beagle puppies, it’s essential to find out about the breeder and the dogs parents. A reputable and established breeder will tell you about the common health conditions in the breed and provide information on the dogs parents.
2. Size
Generally, there are two types of Beagles: standard & miniature. Beagles of 13 to 16 inches tall and weighing 20 to 30 pounds are called Standard. Miniatures are usually below 13 inches and typically weigh less than 20 pounds.
When deciding on the size, consider your living situation and how much space you have for a dog. For example, a miniature beagle may be better if you live in an apartment or have a small yard.
3. Coats and Colors
Beagles have two coats: a short, dense outer coat and a softer inner coat. The most common colors are tri-color (black, brown, and white), red and white, or lemon and white.
They shed an average amount of fur, but the amount will vary depending on the individual dog. Some beagles will shed more during certain times of the year, while others may shed year-round. Be prepared to vacuum frequently if you choose a beagle!
4. Temperament
Beagles are friendly, outgoing, and loving dogs. They love to be around people and other dogs. However, they can also be stubborn and require patience when training.
Beagles are hunting dogs, so they have a lot of energy. They need daily exercise, such as walks, runs, or playtime in the yard. This may not be the right breed for you if you live in an apartment or close quarters.
5. Health
All dog breeds have certain health conditions that are more common than others. For example, beagles are prone to obesity, so it’s important to keep them at a healthy weight with a nutritious diet and plenty of exercise. They are also susceptible to ear infections and hip dysplasia. Please remember that Beagle is a healthy breed in general.
When looking for beagle puppies, find out about the common health conditions in the breed and ask the breeder about the puppy’s parents. A reputable and established breeder will provide information on the puppy’s parents and any health conditions they may have. A beagle is expected to live between 12-15 years.
6. Food and Nutrition
You must ensure that your beagle puppy eats a nutritious diet to stay healthy. Beagles are prone to obesity, so it’s essential to feed them a high-quality diet rich in protein and low in fat. In addition, puppy food should be specially formulated for growing dogs and contain all the necessary nutrients.
As your puppy grows, you can transition them to adult dog food. However, continue feeding them a high-quality diet to help prevent health problems later in life.
Beagles are prone to obesity, so feeding them a nutritious diet and limiting their treats is essential. They should have two meals a day consisting of high-quality dry dog food.
7. Grooming
Beagles have short, dense fur that doesn’t require much grooming. However, they do shed seasonally. During shedding season, you’ll need to brush them more often to remove the loose hair. Beagles also need their nails trimmed regularly.
Beagles should be brushed once or twice weekly to remove loose hair. They also need their nails trimmed, and their teeth brushed regularly.
8. Training
Beagles are intelligent dogs and can learn quickly with positive reinforcement. However, they can also be stubborn, so patience is essential when training (a well-fitted crate can help with training).
Beagles need daily exercise, so walks or runs are a great way to train them. You can also teach them tricks or commands while playing with them at a young age.
9. Price
The price of beagle puppies varies depending on the breeder and the puppy’s parents. Standard beagles typically cost between $500-$1,500, while miniature beagles may cost less.
When looking for beagle puppies, find out about the breeder and the puppy’s parents before deciding on a price. A reputable breeder will provide information on the puppy’s parents and any health conditions they may have.
10. As Family Pets
Beagles make great family pets. They are friendly, loving, and outgoing dog breeds that enjoy being around people. However, they need daily exercise and may not be the best breed for families with small children or close quarters.
If you’re looking for a great family pet, consider a beagle. Just be sure to give them plenty of exercise and space to run.
The Bottom Line
Beagles are popular breeds that make great family pets. They are friendly, loving, and intelligent dogs that need daily exercise. Unfortunately, beagles are also prone to obesity, so it’s essential to feed them a high-quality diet and keep them at a healthy weight.
Now that you know more about beagles, it’s time to start your search for beagle puppies. First, find a reputable breeder and ask about the puppy’s parents and any health conditions they may have. Beagles are usually healthy dogs.
When you bring your new puppy home, continue their training and socialization. With proper care, your Beagle will be a loyal and loving companion for years.