Beagle
Description
Beagles trace their roots back to Roman times but took their modern form in 19th-century England, bred specifically for hunting small game like rabbits. Their exceptional sense of smell, second only to the Bloodhound, made them ideal foot hounds that didn’t require horses during hunts. Compact and sturdy, Beagles could be easily transported in packs for long days afield. Friendly and gentle, Beagles make great family companions. They thrive on social interaction, whether with other dogs or humans, but their strong hunting instincts mean they often follow scents, risking wandering off if not supervised. Their intelligence is paired with a stubborn streak, so consistent training is essential to manage their independent nature.
Grooming
Beagles have a short, smooth coat that sheds lightly to moderately throughout the year without major seasonal blows. Weekly brushing with a rubber curry or bristle brush keeps loose hair under control and maintains skin health. Bathing should be done every 4 to 8 weeks to avoid drying out their skin, and nails need trimming every 2 to 4 weeks to prevent discomfort or injury. Their ears require monthly checks and cleaning to reduce the risk of infections, especially since floppy ears can trap moisture. Color and pattern care is straightforward; Beagles come in a variety of combinations including black, tan, white, and spotted or ticked markings, none of which demand special maintenance beyond regular grooming. - Brush weekly with rubber curry or bristle brush - Bathe every 4–8 weeks - Trim nails every 2–4 weeks - Clean ears monthly Pro tip: Tidy up any stray whiskers or facial fur as needed to keep their expressive face looking sharp.
Learn the Smooth routine:
→ Complete Smooth Grooming Guide
Walking
Beagles require about 70 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to keep them mentally and physically satisfied. Their strong hunting drive means walks should include opportunities to sniff and explore safely, as they’re prone to following scents and can easily wander if off-leash. Leash training is crucial to prevent escapes. A typical routine might be a 35-minute morning walk focusing on brisk exercise and leash control, followed by a 35-minute evening stroll allowing more sniffing and relaxed exploration. Incorporating varied routes and scent games during walks helps engage their nose and mind, reducing boredom and destructive behaviors at home.
Boarding
When boarding a Beagle, provide a crate sized between 36 and 42 inches to ensure comfort and enough room to turn around and stretch. Beagles enjoy interactive play, so staff should schedule two active play sessions daily that include scent or brain games to tap into their natural hunting instincts. These enrichment activities help reduce stress and keep them engaged. Beagles are social and do well with other dogs, but supervision is necessary to manage their vocal tendencies and prevent excessive barking. Staff should monitor for signs of restlessness or attempts to escape, as their curiosity and scent-driven nature can lead to wandering behaviors. Consistent routines and plenty of mental stimulation make boarding a positive experience for this breed.