Why do Beagles have a bad reputation

Beagles: What's Good About 'Em, What's Bad About 'Em

Beagle temperament, personality, training, behavior, pros and cons, advice, and information, by Michele Welton, Dog Trainer, Behavioral Consultant, Author of 15 Dog Books

Beagles are conveniently-sized, handsome and easy-to-groom, friendly with people, peaceful with other pets. And with their appealing soulful expression, it's perfectly natural that many people consider them as potentially wonderful pets.

However, Beagles were developed as hunting hounds. They need much more exercise than most people give them, which is why you see so many fat Beagles.

Though they're often kept in city apartments or condos, they should not be. Beagles require long frequent walks and a fenced yard where they can stretch their legs off-leash FENCED because Beagles are explorers and chasers who will follow their nose wherever that fascinating sight or smell takes them. And since Beagles (like most hunting hounds) are endowed with selective deafness, they seldom come back when you call them.

In addition, you can't leave them outside unmonitored, for Beagles are prone to wanderlust and can be adept climbers and diggers, i.e. escape artists. Also, Beagles left outside become bored and then they bay and howl and dig holes.

One more thing..... most Beagles are chowhounds, so keep your trash cans out of reach and never set your plate of food down where he can get to it.

The Beagle's vast stubbornness and distractability call for consistent and persistent training based on respect. Food rewards can be a great motivator for Beagles, but if you base all of your training on food, your Beagle will only obey when you have a cookie in your hand obviously not a good situation.

• Is conveniently-sized, sturdy, and athletic
• Is completely natural in appearance
• Has a short easy-care coat
• Loves exercise, play, and outdoor activities
• Is good-natured and peaceful with everyone

A Beagle may be right for you.

• An extremely careful search to find good-tempered lines
• Providing a goodly amount of exercise, not just a couple of walks around the block
• Destructiveness when bored or not exercised enough
• An independent "what's in it for me?" attitude can be obstinate
• Keeping him on-leash or securely fenced
• Controlling baying and howling
• Slowness to housebreak
• Moderate to heavy shedding
• A distinctive doggy odor
• Concerns about a lot of potential health problems in the breed

A Beagle may not be right for you.

Dog Breed Traits Which Traits Are Right For You? In this brand new series, I'll help you decide which dog breed traits would best suit you and your family, your home and yard, and your lifestyle, so you can choose the best dog breed for your family.

• You can avoid some negative traits by choosing an ADULT dog from an animal shelter or rescue group. With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult Beagles have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics.
• If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy.

If I was considering a Beagle, I would be most concerned about...

1. Unstable temperaments. Beagles are supposed to be a stable, reliable breed. Unfortunately, obedience instructors and behavioral consultants, like myself, see too many Beagles who are fearful or neurotic. If you're considering a Beagle puppy, you need to look carefully at the temperament of BOTH parents.
2. Providing enough exercise. Beagles need more exercise than the typical amble around the block that many owners give them. Beagles who don't get enough exercise become bored, destructive, noisy, and/or obese, which puts stress on their joints and causes health problems. Beagles need regular opportunities to stretch their legs and RUN, if you want them to remain healthy and fit.

   But Beagles should run inside an enclosed area like a yard or dog park. You shouldn't trust these dogs off-leash they will follow their nose wherever it leads them and pursue anything that runs.

3. Fence security. Many Beagles are clever escape artists who will go over or under fences in search of adventure. You may need higher fences than you might imagine for their small size. They can climb chain link. You may also need to sink wire into the ground along the fence line to thwart digging. Gates should have the highest quality locks, as some Beagles can open flimsy latches.
4. Housebreaking. Many Beagles are a little slow to pick up on the housebreaking concept. Expect several months of consistent crate training before the light bulb goes on. Read more on housebreaking.
5. Noise. Beagles should never be left outside in your yard, unsupervised. Their mournful baying and howling will have your neighbors calling the cops to report the nuisance, or quietly letting your Beagle out of his yard so he'll wander away and stop disturbing them.
6. Stubbornness. Beagles are not easy to train. Truth be told, they are independent thinkers who don't particularly care about pleasing you. Food is a great motivator with Beagles, but too many cookies equals a fat Beagle. Also you don't want a dog who only obeys when you're waving a biscuit. Instead you should establish the right relationship between the two of you, where you are the leader and he is the follower. Read my free online training programs.
7. Shedding and doggy odor. For such a shorthaired dog, Beagles shed much more than you might think on the high side of average. In addition, like all scenthounds, Beagles have a distinct doggy odor.
8. Potential health problems. Many Beagles live a good long life, but they are prone to a dismaying number of health problems, including itchy skin conditions, ear infections, many different eye disease, joint problems, hypothyroidism, diabetes, epilepsy, and heart disease. Read more about Beagle Health.

Why Beagles Are the Worst Dogs? Is it True?

Beagles are often considered the worst dogs by many due to their strong-willed nature and high energy levels. While they are known for their adorable looks and loyalty, their stubbornness and tendency to follow their strong sense of smell can make them difficult to train and control. This breeds propensity to howl and bark loudly can also be a source of frustration for owners and neighbors alike.

Additionally, beagles have a strong hunting instinct, which can lead to them wandering off if not kept on a leash or in a secure area. Their curious and independent nature can result in them getting into mischief, and their high energy levels require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Despite these challenges, dedicated and patient owners can find ways to manage and channel a beagles traits in a positive direction, ensuring a harmonious relationship with this unique and spirited breed. So, Why Beagles Are the Worst Dogs?

5 Reasons Why Beagles Are the Worst Dogs

1. They are very energetic and need a lot of exercise.

Beagles are bred to be hunting dogs, which means they have a lot of stamina and endurance. They can run for hours without getting tired, and they need at least an hour of exercise every day. If you are not an active person or you dont have enough time or space to provide them with adequate exercise, you may end up with a bored, restless, and destructive Beagle. They may chew on your furniture, dig up your garden, or bark incessantly to release their pent-up energy.

2. They are very stubborn and hard to train.

Beagles are independent and intelligent dogs, but they also have a mind of their own. They are not very eager to please their owners, and they often ignore commands or do things their way. Training them can be a challenge, as they may get distracted by smells, sounds, or other animals. They may also resist housebreaking, crate training, or leash training. You will need a lot of patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement to teach them basic manners and obedience.

3. They are very vocal and noisy.

Beagles have a distinctive voice that they use to communicate with their owners and other dogs. They can bark, howl, bay, or whine for various reasons, such as excitement, boredom, loneliness, or alertness. They may also vocalize when they are on the trail of a scent or when they see something interesting. Their loud and frequent noises can be annoying for you and your neighbors, especially if you live in an apartment or a quiet neighborhood. You may need to train them to be quiet on command or use anti-bark devices to control their barking.

4. They are very food-oriented and prone to obesity.

Beagles have a strong sense of smell and a voracious appetite. They love food and will eat anything they can find, whether it is edible or not. They may raid your trash, steal your food, or beg for treats. They may also overeat if you dont monitor their portions and calories. Their food obsession can lead to obesity, which can cause various health problems, such as diabetes, arthritis, or heart disease. You will need to be careful about what you feed them and how much you feed them and avoid giving them human food or table scraps.

5. They are very social and suffer from separation anxiety.

Beagles are pack animals that thrive on companionship and attention. They are very affectionate and loyal to their owners, and they enjoy being around other dogs and people. However, this also means that they dont like being left alone for long periods. They may develop separation anxiety, which can manifest as destructive behavior, excessive barking, or depression. They may also become clingy or needy when you are around. You will need to provide them with enough socialization and stimulation and help them cope with being alone by using toys, crates, or dog sitters.

Why do Beagles have a bad reputation?

Beagles make affectionate family pets, yet they are often characterized as being less responsive to commands. Originally bred as active hunting dogs, Beagles are renowned for their exceptional sense of smell, ranking among the top scent hounds. They thrive on regular exercise and exhibit a friendly disposition, making them well-suited for interaction with individuals of all age groups.

Conclusion of Why Beagles Are the Worst Dogs

Beagles are not the worst dogs, but they are not the best dogs either. They have their pros and cons, and they may or may not suit your lifestyle and preferences. Before you decide to get a Beagle, you should do your research and weigh the benefits and challenges of owning one. You should also consider adopting a Beagle from a shelter or a rescue group, rather than buying one from a breeder or a pet store. Beagles are wonderful dogs, but they are not for everyone.

Do Beagles Bark A Lot? (And Tips For Stopping Them)

While all dogs are known to bark, some breeds will bark more frequently than others. Depending on your living situation, you may have to consider how often a dog is likely to bark before making a decision on them. If you are considering beagle dogs but live in an apartment, one question you will have to ask is, Do beagles bark a lot?

One of the most famous fictional beagles was Snoopy, who was always silent. This gave most people the impression that beagles would be quiet dogs. However, some owners have different stories to tell. While every dog has its own personality, many breeds share the same traits, so its important to be familiar with the barking habits of the breed you plan to get.

Do Beagles Bark A Lot?

Beagles are rather vocal dogs, but saying that they bark a lot is a bit of a stretch. These dogs bark to communicate, so you will know every time when they are hungry or need to go outside. However, most beagles arent excessive barkers, and theres usually a reason behind the bark.

Why Do Beagles Bark?

There could be several reasons why your beagle is barking, from needing to use the washroom to the mail courier arriving. While some of the reasons are learned behaviors, others are in their nature. These are some of the most common reasons a beagle will start to bark:

Someones Here

The main reason a beagle will start to bark is because of the sensed movement on its territory. They do this to alert you that someone is there and let unwanted visitors know theres something waiting inside. While this is a great way to let you know when pizza arrival is here, they dont leave their barking at just humans.

Some beagles will bark at the sound of a phone ringing. Others will let you know when the neighbors cat has snuck into your garden, or a squirrel is climbing up a tree. No matter what is there, these dogs want to give you a fair warning.

They Need Something

Barking is their primary form of communication, and their humans are their main providers. A beagle is likely to start barking when they need their food or water dish topped off. Theyre also likely to let out a howl when they need to be let outside to do their business.

Excitement

Some of those barks are happy barks because beagles are known to bark when they feel excited. Its likely youll hear a few barks come from your furry friend when you arrive home. They may also let out a few howls when youre playing with them to let you know theyre having a good time.

One adorable thing that many beagles do is let out a happy bark when their owners present them with a new toy or treat. This is how you can tell they are excited about whats in front of them.

Anxiety

While recessive barking isnt a habit of most beagles, some may pick up the habit if they are struggling with separation anxiety. This could cause them to bark more frequently when they are left alone for periods of time. Beagles may become dependent on their owners, which could lead them to feel anxious when youre away.

Boredom

Some beagles may start barking due to boredom or wanting attention from their owners. If they notice that barking gets your attention, they may continue this habit to keep your focus on them. They also enjoy the sound of their own howl, so if they are bored, its likely they could start to bark as a way of entertaining themselves.

How To Stop Your Beagle Barking

Yes, beagles are vocal dogs. However, if you know why theyre barking, then there are ways to get them to stop. Getting to the route of your beagles barking is the best way to find the right solution to get them to stop barking. They dont bark for no reason, so its likely they want something from you.

Training Your Beagle

If you havent trained your beagle properly, then this is the perfect time to start. Whatever bad behavior your shepherd has, whether its barking at night or other bad behaviors, using the right training program is the key to having an obedient and happy pup.

The training program I love and highly recommend is Brain Training For Dogs.

With Brain Training For Dogs, youll save yourself a ton of time and effort. Instead of banging your head against the wall trying to figure out why your dog wont listen, youll follow a path that has been tried, tested, and most importantly, thats given proven results. Not to mention the fact, youll be able to fit the course around your schedule, not fit your schedule around a trainer or obedience class.

So instead of worrying about whether theyre going to be well-behaved or not, youll only have to worry about how much fun youll have with them!

And in most cases, its still going to be:

• Cheaper than hiring a professional.
• Cheaper than replacing everything they might break.
• And definitely cheaper than a lawsuit against you, if they decide to bite someone.

Just imagine how great it will feel to finally be able to trust your beagle completely and never worry whether theyll be naughty or not. Instead, youll have the peace of mind that you have a well-behaved pup, and the boundaries you set for them will always be there, EVEN IF YOURE NOT.

And the best part is it also has a 60-day money-back guarantee! So theres no reason not to give Brain Training For Dogs a try!

So if youre tired of your dogs bad behavior or how they react around other people and pooches, then give it a try! Youll be amazed by the results! (You can also check out a full review here to learn exactly what the course has to offer!)

Keep Them Happy

As mentioned above, beagles bark to communicate. Its very likely that your beagle is barking to let you know they want something. Making sure that they have food and water available when needed is a great way to prevent them from starting to bark.

If they arent barking because someone has arrived, the most likely reason will be because they need to use the washroom. Let them outside so they can relieve themselves. Provide them with something to chew on because if they can exercise their mouth with chewing, then they wont have the urge to bark.

Burn Some Energy

Beagles do have the energy to burn, and its especially important if youre about to leave for the day that you help them burn some off. Allow at least 30 minutes in your schedule before leaving so you can take your dog out to burn off some energy. You can play with them or even just take them for a walk.

When they get a chance to wear off that energy, they wont need to bark as a way to release it. Beagles that get their fair share of exercise are less likely to bark. On average, taking them out at least 3 times a day will allow them enough activity to remain happy so they wont feel like barking.

Create a Safe Spot

This is especially important if you arent going to be home throughout the day. Some beagles get nervous when they are alone in large spaces, so moving their bed to a more contained area could make them feel more comfortable. You can make this area more comfortable for them by putting some of their favorite toys in there as well.

Ignore Them

If your beagle is barking because they want attention, one of the best ways to curb this habit is to ignore them. Dont show any type of reaction, positive or negative, because this is exactly what they want. Just keep doing what youre doing, and they will eventually notice the barking method is not going to get them the attention they are after.

Teach Them Commands

Speak, and Quiet are two commands that you should teach your beagle as a way to stop them from barking too much. This is a great way to get them to stay calm when visitors approach the door. Start by teaching them the speaking command. A great way to do this is by firmly saying the word Speak while motivating the dog to bark.

Anytime they bark after you say speak, give them a treat. This is how you can teach them to bark on command. Once they are trained to bark on command, you can start to teach them the Quiet command. When your dog begins to bark, make sure you look at them directly in the eyes and firmly say, Quiet.

They likely wont understand the word at first, which is why you will have to act fast. Make sure you have treats ready, and the very second they stop barking after you say Quiet, give them a treat. Stay persistent with your training of the quiet command, so they being to correlate the word quiet with no more barking.

Beagles are smart dogs, so as long as you use the same pattern when teaching the quiet command, they will learn how to react to your commands.

Make Them Think

Beagles love a good mental puzzle, and they also love to eat. If you find a way to combine these, then you could prevent the dog from barking too much. Puzzle feeders are a great way to keep your beagles mind busy. If you dont have a puzzle feeder, you can always make your own.

Some dogs have a lot of fun trying to find their treats. You could make a cardboard enclosure or a newspaper roll, so the beagle has to work to earn their treat.

Eliminate Triggers

There are some things that will trigger your dog to bark that are unavoidable. If your beagle lets out a howl at strangers walking down the street, block their access to the window or keep them covered with curtains.

Related Articles

What Should You Avoid Doing To Stop Your Beagle Barking?

There are plenty of great ways to get your beagle to stop barking so much, but there are some things you should avoid doing if you want your training to be successful. The wrong training methods could have the opposite effect, and you could be left with a noisy beagle on your hands.

Keeping Them Outside

Many people think that if their yard is enclosed with a fence that leaving their dog outdoors for long periods of time could condition them to seeing unknown people walk by more often. While many people hope this stops their dog from barking, it actually has the opposite effect.

This is because when the dog is left outdoors alone for long periods of time, it gets bored. The sight of another person is likely to recharge their energy, and theyll start barking when they seem people walk by.

Dont Resort To Shouting

Even if you feel frustrated, dont shout at your beagle. Shouting will actually encourage your beagle to bark more and louder. A big part of why they bark is to receive attention, and by shouting, youre giving in to what they want. They are likely to continue to bark at your shouting because they interpret it as you trying to keep up with their bark, and they want to challenge you.

Change Methods

Beagles need consistent training in order for it to be effective. If there are two or more people involved in the dogs training, make sure everyone is on the same page about what they are doing to train the dog. If everyone involved is teaching the beagle different things and having different reactions to their barking, they will continue to bark whenever they want.

Dont Be Lazy

When your beagle gets enough exercise, they are too tired to bark. A lengthy playtime is one of the best ways to prevent a beagle from barking too much. Make sure they get enough time to play and run around so theyll be in a better mood and wont feel the need to bark.

When Do Beagle Puppies Start Barking?

Most beagle puppies will begin to bark as early as 3 to 5 weeks old. However, the howling is a different story. Beagles can begin to howl anywhere from 2 months to a year in age. While each beagle finds their voice at a different pace, one thing they all have in common is once they start to sing, they dont want to stop.

What Are The Signs Of A Beagle Barking Aggressively?

The good thing about beagles is that they are very rarely aggressive. However, if the dog is mistreated or hasnt been properly socialized, then they may show some signs of aggression. These are some signs that your beagle will show when they begin to bark aggressively:

Blocking Your Path

A sign of aggressive barking in a beagle is when they are blocking your path. This is their way of trying to prevent anyone from getting through. They may even show this behavior in front of a certain family members sleeping area as a way to guard it.

Body Language

There are some signs of aggressive barking that you will be able to pick up on by watching the beagles body. The first sign thats most noticeable is when their teeth are exposed. They will usually make direct eye contact with the person or animal that they are feeling aggression towards.

Their ears will be up or in a more direct position, and they will likely be standing in a taller position. Another key sign is their tail. When theyre barking aggressively, a beagles tail will be held up and moving back and forth stiffly.

Aggressive Sounds

When you get used to your dog, its easier to tell the difference between their excitement and their aggressive barks. Some noises to look out for if a beagle is barking aggressively include:

• Growling
• Low-range barks
• Snarling
• Snapping

FAQ

Do Beagles Bark At Night?

If your beagle hasnt received enough exercise, then it may bark at night. When a beagle barks at night, its usually because they are bored. To make sure they let you sleep at night, make sure they get enough activity during the day and provide them with enough toys and a safe spot to go at night.

(Find out Why Your Beagle Is Barking At Night.)

Do Beagles Bark At Other Dogs?

Beagles are very gentle-mannered and known to be very friendly with other dogs. Since they were bred to work together, its easier for beagles to get along with other dogs of any breed. However, they will still bark when they see another dog. This has nothing to do with them being aggressive; they bark because they have a lot of feelings they need to release.

(Find out whether Beagles Get Along With Other Dogs.)

Do Beagles Bark At Strangers?

Beagles are naturally protective of their owners, so they will bark at strangers to alert you of their presence. Just in case this person is a threat, they want you to be ready. However, if the stranger is welcome, they will likely be friendly to them once you greet them.

Are Beagles Noisy?

Beagles have a reputation for being noisy, but that isnt always the case. They do have a howl and are known to enjoy singing more frequently than other breeds. However, beagles usually arent excessive barkers. They generally always have a reason behind their bark and will stop when its addressed.

Do Beagles Bark More Than Other Dogs?

Beagles dont bark more frequently than other breeds, but they appear more vocal than other dogs because of their howl. This breed loves the sound of their own howl, and when theyre bored, theyre more likely to bark for entertainment than other breeds. However, they are also very intelligent dogs which makes it easier to train them to stop barking.

What Does a Beagle Bark Sound Like?

Beagles actually have three different types of barks, which can make it easier for their owners to figure out the meaning behind them. The one you will become most familiar with is their standard bark. This is the one they use to let you know theyre hungry or that a visitor is approaching.

The second bark sound they make is a cross between a bark and a howl; many people refer to this as beagle baying. This bark is more common among hunter dogs to let their pact know a scent has been found. House-trained beagles will use this bark to let you know when theyve found a favorite toy.

The third barking sound they make is their howl, which they usually make when they are bored or suffering from anxiety. Many people refer to this as their singing bark, and the beagle loves the sound of it. If you dont provide your beagles with attention, exercise, or toys, then its likely they will continue this bark for mental stimulation.

Do Beagles Always Barks?

No, a beagle wont always bark. This breed of dog always has a reason for their barking. They dont bark for no reason, as its how they communicate. If you do adopt a beagle that seems to bark excessively, finding the reason behind it may be tricky, but once you do, its easier to control the barking.

How Can I Train My Beagle Puppy Not To Bark So Much?

Barking is a trait that beagles learn at a very young age. If a beagle puppy is quieter, then its likely they wont bark as frequently when they are adults. Keeping your Beagle puppy physically and mentally active will help them feel stimulated enough to not have a reason to bark frequently.

You should also make sure they get socialized so they wont be overly nervous or excited when a visitor approaches your dog. While its normal for a beagle to alert you of someone new on your property, they should be calm once the person is invited indoors.

Will A Beagle Bark Too Much If They Are Left Home Alone All Day?

Since beagles are bred to be part of a pact, many people worry about leaving them home alone during the day. They love company, which sometimes causes them to become very attached to their owner. This causes many Beagles to feel separation anxiety when their owners arent home.

As mentioned above, its a good idea to create a safe space for your beagle to stay in when youre away. Its also important to make sure you provide these dogs with everything they need to stay mentally stimulated. Leave them with toys they enjoy and a comfortable place to sleep, and they shouldnt disrupt your neighbors with barking.

(Find out whether Beagles Can Be Left Alone.)

Are Beagles Too Loud For Apartments?

Since beagles are smaller in size and dont require a lot of grooming, many people believe they are the perfect dog for living in an apartment. If you plan to move a beagle into an apartment with you, then its important you go through the right training to make sure they dont bark excessively.

It may take more training and patience to make sure your beagle is trained for apartment living. Just because these dogs are vocal doesnt mean they cant be trained for shared living accommodations.

Final Thoughts: Do Beagles Bark A Lot?

Beagles love the sound of their own bark and will bark to hear their own voice, but this is only the case if they arent mentally stimulated. Despite their reputation, beagles dont bark more than other breeds of dogs. With the right training, amount of activity, and exciting toys, a beagle likely wont bark too much.

While beagles arent known to bark all the time, they will let out a few barks to let you know when someone is approaching your home.

Sources