As a beagle owner, I am often asked what it’s like living with these mischievous pups. Well, let me tell you…there’s never a dull moment!
Beagles have a unique personality that can bring so much joy to your life, but also have some unique challenges that you need to be prepared for.
In this post, we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of owning a beagle, from their affectionate nature and love of food, to their thieving antics, and one (particularly) disgusting habit.
Just to be clear, this isn’t your average sugar-coated list of pros and cons.
No, no, no.
This list has been made by real beagle owners who have experienced the ups and downs of beagle parenthood – and we’re not holding anything back!
So, if you’re ready to find out whether beagle ownership is a match made in heaven or a potential disaster, buckle up and get ready for some real talk.
And don’t worry, even if you end up deciding that beagles aren’t for you, we won’t judge (much).
So, let’s dive in and discover the good, the bad, and the downright hilarious aspects of owning a Beagle!
15 Pros of Owning a Beagle
Ready to fall in love with a hound who will always keep you on your toes?
These little guys are known for their big personalities, and there are plenty of reasons why they make wonderful pets.
Get ready, as here are 15 awesome pros of owning a beagle:-
1. Loves Cuddles
One of the best things about beagles is their exceptional talent for cuddling, with their size and shape making them the perfect snuggle partners on the couch.
All of our beagles love to do the same thing – jump up onto you, half-on half-off, and push their snouts in between your elbow and your belly to keep their noses warm!
While beagles may be known for their mischievous nature, they undoubtedly provide the most heartwarming cuddle sessions (when they finally settle down).
2. Always up for a Game
Beagles are pros when it comes to playtime. Not only are they always up for a game at the drop of a hat, but their intelligence, boundless energy, and endless curiosity make them perfect companions for activities like tug-of-war or hide-and-seek.
In fact, when we think about it, these playful pups might just be the most fun members of our family!
3. Nose Knows
Beagles are renowned for their incredible sense of smell, and one of our favorite things to do is to hide treats around the house and watch our beagles go to work sniffing them out.
It never fails to amaze us how quickly and accurately they can locate the treats, even when they’re hidden in the most obscure places!
This game is not only a great way to keep your beagle mentally stimulated, but it’s also a fun activity that the whole family can enjoy.
4. Excellent Alarm System
One of the undeniable beagle pros is their exceptional ability to serve as a reliable alarm system. As seasoned beagle owners, we can attest to their vocal nature, which makes them excellent at notifying you of any unwelcome visitors, whether they walk on two or four legs.
If you’re seeking an effective and economical alarm system, consider the benefits of owning a beagle. (Just kidding!).
However, beagles certainly DO NOT make good guard dogs! More on this later…
5. Canine Comedian
Like any dog, beagles do have pros and cons, but when it comes to providing entertainment and comedic value, beagles are incredibly hard to beat!
Their playful nature, curious personality, and quirky habits make for some fantastic stories and memories that you’ll cherish for years to come.
They have a natural ability to make us laugh with their silly antics and playful behavior, and they have a way of brightening up even the gloomiest of days.
6. (Fairly) Easy to Train
One of the benefits of beagles is that they are incredibly food-driven, which naturally motivates them to learn new behaviors and commands in exchange for treats. This trait makes them more likely than many other breeds to work hard for a reward.
While this high food drive can be seen as a double-edged sword (as it can make them prone to begging), we do not consider it a disadvantage as long as sensible feeding methods are employed.
With proper training and positive reinforcement, beagles can quickly become well-behaved and obedient little pups (most of the time!).
Their innate drive for food can be used to your advantage during training sessions, making the process more efficient and enjoyable for both you and your beagle.
7. Long Lifespan
If you’re considering getting a beagle, then you’ll be pleased to know that one of their advantages is a long lifespan. That’s right – beagles can live up to 15 years, and sometimes even longer.
This means you’ll have more time to create unforgettable memories with your little pup and develop a deep bond with them. A beagle is definitely a great choice for those looking for a doggy that will be a loyal companion for years to come.
8. Low-Maintenance Diet
Ever heard of some breeds that are so difficult to feed as they turn their noses up at everything? Not the beagle!
Beagles are known for their insatiable appetite and will eat just about anything that comes their way. While this may seem like a concern for owners, it can actually be a plus when it comes to feeding them a healthy diet.
As beagles are not picky eaters, this means that you can easily incorporate healthy foods without them staring blankly at you or their bowl. This includes adding vegetables and other nutrient-rich foods that other breeds are generally not interested in.
Their glutenous nature and willingness to eat just about anything make life that little bit easier when it comes to feeding them a low-maintenance (and balanced) diet!
9. Size Matters
Beagles are a great medium-sized breed that fits well into many households. They are small enough to be easily managed, yet large enough for outdoor activities and playtime.
Their size also makes them great for families with children, as they are sturdy enough to handle a little rough and tumble!
If you’re looking for a versatile breed that’s just the right size for your family, a beagle might make a great match.
10. Easy to Groom
One of the advantages of owning a beagle is they are surprisingly low maintenance when it comes to grooming.
Unlike some breeds that require regular trips to the groomer or specific tools and treatments, beagles can be taken care of with simple brushing and occasional baths.
Their low-maintenance requirements are one of the benefits that make them an ideal choice for busy families or those who don’t want to spend a lot of time or money on grooming and upkeep.
11. Self-Entertaining
Beagles love to play, and they can easily amuse themselves with their favorite chews or toys for hours. They also enjoy exploring their surroundings and sniffing out new scents, which can keep them occupied and engaged.
Beagles are playful, curious, and always up for an adventure, which makes them a lovable and entertaining addition to the household.
12. Relatively Healthy Genes
Beagles, overall, attract less common health conditions than other popular breeds due to their strong genetic makeup.
This means they require fewer specialized treatments and less trips to the vet, which can save you time, money (and heartache) in the long run.
While they may still require regular vet visits and proper care, their health is generally not a major concern.
13. Great with Children
One of the best things about beagles is their exceptional patience when dealing with children, which is one of their greatest pros.
They are renowned for being kind, gentle, and responsive toward kids, making them an ideal companion for families.
Their high tolerance level means they are less likely (than other breeds) to display aggression towards children, even when the kids are being a bit too enthusiastic.
14. Incredibly Sociable
Beagles are pack animals, and as such, they enjoy being part of a group.
They get along well with other dogs and are less likely to show aggression towards other animals. This means that you can generally introduce a beagle to their other pets without worrying about potential conflicts.
Additionally, because beagles are so social, they are less likely to develop separation anxiety when left alone with other pets.
They enjoy the company of other animals and will often bond well with them, which can help alleviate any anxiety they may experience when you are away.
15. Cutest Breed Ever!
Beagles are undeniably adorable, and their cute and charming appearance is a definite plus for potential pet owners.
Additionally, because of their cute appearance and friendly personalities, beagles often attract A LOT of attention when out in public.
This can lead to opportunities for socialization and interaction with other people and pets, which is important for their overall well-being and happiness.
15 Cons of Owning a Beagle
Now, let’s talk about the not-so-great parts of owning a beagle.
While they may have their lovable quirks, beagles also come with their fair share of challenges. From their stubborn nature to their love of destruction, owning a beagle requires patience, understanding, and a good sense of humor.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the cons of owning a beagle…
1. Noisy Pups!
One of the drawbacks of owning a beagle is their love of barking and howling, which can be a big negative for some people.
While some may find their vocalizations charming or endearing, excessive barking or howling can be a nuisance for neighbors and may lead to complaints or conflicts.
Beagles are known to bark or howl for various reasons, including boredom, anxiety, or to alert their humans to something they perceive as a threat. This behavioral issue can be difficult to manage and may require training and behavior modification techniques to reduce or eliminate.
These hounds do generally bark a lot, so be prepared for that to be part of their service!
2. Food Bandits
With their innocent, endearing looks and laid-back temperament, you’d never guess that beagles are master food thieves!
Thanks to their remarkable sense of smell and lack of impulse control, beagles are notorious for stealing food whenever they get the chance. They can sniff out even the slightest crumb, and once they find the goods, they’re off!
This behavior can lead to negative implications for pet owners, who may need to take extra steps to ensure that food is always secure and inaccessible to their thieving beagle, also known as ‘beagle-proofing’ your home
It’s essential to be vigilant and take necessary measures to prevent these incidents, as the implications of their food-thievery can lead to more serious consequences, such as ingesting toxic or dangerous foods.
3. Eau de Fox Poop
Beagles may have a reputation for their adorable looks and charming personalities, but they also have a bit of a stinky secret – their love for rolling in fox poop.
Yes, you read that right. These little hounds have a nose for trouble and a penchant for the pungent. And while we can’t fault them for following their natural instincts, it can be a real downside to owning a beagle.
Just imagine – you’re out for a lovely stroll with your pup, and suddenly they catch a whiff of something oh-so-enticing. Before you know it, they’re rolling around in a pile of fox poop, looking like they’ve found the world’s most revolting spa treatment.
But hey – once you get past the smell, you have a hilarious story to tell!
4. Drool Machines
Beagles are known for their excessive drooling, thanks to their loose lips and low-hanging jowls that aren’t as effective at keeping saliva inside their mouths.
Coupled with an extremely high food drive, their constant drooling is definitely a downside of owning a beagle.
Surfaces in your home can quickly become damp from their playful licks and doggy kisses, and cuddling with them too closely can result in a shower of dog slobber!
5. Smelly Hounds
As much as we love our beagles, it’s no secret that they can be a bit on the smelly side. Why? Well, it’s partly due to their genetics. Beagles have a natural musky scent that comes from their skin oils and sweat glands.
Dealing with a smelly beagle can be a real challenge for pet owners. It can mean frequent baths, regular grooming, and a lot of air fresheners. And even with all that effort, their natural scent may still linger.
While beagles may not always smell like roses, it’s important to embrace them for who they are – smelly and all!
6. Poop Eaters
Let’s face it, beagles have some pretty weird habits. But one of their absolute worst is their tendency to eat poop.
Yup, you read that right.
Poop.
It’s not the most pleasant thing to talk about, but it’s a real downside to owning a beagle.
So why do they do it?
Well, there are several reasons why beagles eat poop, and one is partly due to their natural instinct as hunting dogs. In the wild, they would eat anything they could find to survive, including feces.
Dealing with a poop-eating beagle can be a real challenge for owners. It can mean constantly monitoring and cleaning up after them, which can become an almighty chore.
7. Constant Ear Infections
Although beagles are loved for their adorable floppy ears, those ears can sometimes be a source of trouble.
Beagles have a natural inclination to explore and rub their ears on surfaces, trapping dirt, debris, and moisture that can lead to bacteria and yeast overgrowth.
This can result in discomfort, inflammation, and even permanent damage to their hearing if left untreated.
Managing recurring ear infections can be a hassle, with frequent vet visits, regular ear cleanings, and medication administration. However, with proper care and attention, their ears can stay healthy and pain-free.
Despite the extra effort required, those beautiful velvety ears are definitely worth it the trouble!
8. Prone to Separation Anxiety
Beagles’ susceptibility to separation anxiety is a potential drawback for pet owners who work outside the home or are away for extended periods of time.
Their pack animal nature and social behavior may lead to anxiety and distress when left alone for prolonged periods.
However, there are several strategies and techniques that can be employed to manage separation anxiety in beagles.
Providing plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, gradually acclimating them to being alone, and using calming aids like pheromone diffusers or dog radios can be helpful.
By addressing their separation anxiety, you can ensure that your beagle is happy and healthy even when you’re away from home.
9. Destructive Little Beggars
Beagles are lovable and adorable, but they can also be quite destructive at times, especially during their early years.
Their boundless energy needs to be directed towards the right outlets, or they’ll find ways to entertain themselves – which can mean chewing on shoes, digging up gardens, or ripping apart couch cushions.
However, if you’re able to provide them with patience and discipline during these turbulent times, you’ll soon have a pup who loves its owners unconditionally.
Fulfill their exercise requirements and commit to providing thorough training, and you’ll reap the rewards down the line.
10. Leash Troubles
As much as we love them, there are some disadvantages to owning a beagle, particularly when it comes to their freedom and boundaries. They can be fairly unpredictable off-leash, making it a challenge to keep them under control.
Beagles have a natural instinct to follow their noses, which means that once they catch a scent of something interesting, all bets are off.
They might take off running, ignoring your calls and commands, and leaving you to chase after them like a crazy person.
11. Shedding Machines!
As much as we love our beagles, there’s no denying that dealing with their shedding can be a bit of a headache. It seems like no matter how often we clean or vacuum, there’s always more hair to be found on the furniture, the floors, our clothes, and in our coffee!
This shedding can have some implications for those with allergies or sensitivities to pet dander. It can also be frustrating for those who want to maintain a tidy and hair-free home.
While there’s no way to completely eliminate it, there are some strategies that can help manage shedding in beagles
12. Potty Training Problems
Beagle puppies are undoubtedly adorable, but as any owner will tell you, they can be quite the handful when it comes to housetraining.
You see, beagles are known for being a little stubborn, and their housetraining tendencies are no exception. They can be slow to catch on to the whole “potty outside” concept, and accidents are bound to happen.
And with their highly sensitive sense of smell, beagles can easily become fixated on the scent of previous accidents, making them return to the same spot over and over again.
Housetraining a beagle takes patience, time, and lots of perseverance, but they will most definitely get there in the end!
13. Useless Guard Dogs
Beagles may make excellent alarm systems, but they’re terrible guard dogs!
They’re just too friendly and easily won over by the promise of a treat! If an intruder broke in, we wouldn’t be surprised if they lead them straight to the biscuit jar instead of sounding the alarm.
14. Extremely Stubborn
Beagles have a high sense of curiosity and a natural instinct to follow their noses. This means that they can sometimes be more interested in exploring their surroundings than anything you might have to say to them.
They are independent dogs with a strong will and a mind of their own. They might refuse to follow commands, dig in their heels when you try to train them, or simply ignore you altogether.
And let’s not forget about their selective hearing – they’ll hear the rustling of a treat bag from a mile away, but will completely tune out your calls to get their attention!
15. Sitter Struggles
Let’s be real, finding a sitter for your beagle puppy might be a bit of a challenge.
It’s not that they’re not lovable or adorable (because let’s face it, they are), but their high-energy and stubborn nature can make them a handful for anyone who isn’t used to their shenanigans.
When beagles are young and mischievous, they love to chew on everything in sight, dig up your backyard, and run around like crazy. It’s all part of their playful spirit, but it can be a bit overwhelming for a sitter who isn’t prepared for the beagle tornado that’s about to hit.
But hey, all that mischief makes owning a beagle pretty entertaining!
Have Our Beagle Pros and Cons Helped You Decide?
If you’re still here, that’s a great sign!
Owning a beagle can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it’s important to be aware of both the pros and cons. From their affectionate nature and high food drive to their stubbornness and love of barking, beagles have a unique personality that may not be for everyone, so it’s important to understand what you’re getting into.
Yes, raising a beagle can be a challenge at times, but in our opinion, the love and companionship they provide are well worth it. Plus, think of all the funny stories you’ll have to tell once they’ve outgrown their mischievous phase!
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