6 Reasons Beagles Are the Perfect Family Dog

Source：AZ Animals Time：January 20, 2024

Beagles are a happy, lively breed that will bring joy to your household. They have many qualities that make them the perfect family dog. But as wonderful as the breed is, there are a few reasons to consider why a Beagle may not be a good fit for your family or lifestyle. Read on to learn why adding a Beagle to your family might be a great idea … or maybe not.

History of the Beagle

Beagles have a long history as hunting dogs in England, Wales, and France. Their smallish size made them ideal for hunters on foot, who could keep up with the breed as opposed to larger hunting dogs who had to be followed on horse. Beagles were primarily bred to hunt rabbits and hares.

Beagles have some distinctive features, all designed to help them while on the hunt. The white tip of their tail was bred into the dog so that they could be spotted while out in the fields. Additionally, they are one of the most vocal breeds there is. It’s thought that the name “Beagle” comes from the French word “begueule,” which means a “gaped throat” according to the American Kennel Club. Beagles can bark, howl, or bay, which sounds almost like a yodeling noise. Their large ears can help trap scents for them, making them even better hunters.

These hard workers are part of the hound group and are a perfect family dog for high-energy families. Here’s what to love about Beagles, and what makes them a challenge.

1. They’re Good With Children

6 Reasons Beagles Are the Perfect Family Dog — Beagles are typically patient and loving with kids.
©Nina Buday/Shutterstock.com

Most Beagles particularly enjoy the company of children. Because they are energetic and love to have fun, they get along well with kids, especially kids who will play with them a lot. Beagles are also quite friendly. For a household with children that may have new people coming and going, Beagles are a good match since they aren’t much of a guard dog.

2. The Breed Is Low Maintenance

Beagles are not known to drool or have that typical “doggy smell” of some breeds. They are also relatively low shedding. They don’t require a lot of grooming beyond regular baths.

3. They Are a Manageable Size

These are hearty dogs in relatively small packages. Beagles come in two sizes. One is 13 inches and under, weighing under 20 lbs. The second size is 13 to 15 inches, weighing 20 to 30 lbs.

For families with younger kids, Beagles aren’t overwhelmingly large, but also not small enough that families need to worry about the safety of the dog with children, who can sometimes be rough unwittingly.

4. Beagles Are Very Social

Have a lot of people and pets around? A Beagle will fit in well. The breed is outgoing and gets along well with other animals and strangers. They enjoy being around others, both of the canine and human variety. Beagles are the perfect family dog for busy, active families who are out and about and want to take their dogs with them.

5. The Breed Is Very Energetic

With their high energy, this is a breed that loves to be on the go and enjoys nothing more than raucous playtime. They’re an ideal dog to tag along on family hikes and outdoor excursions. Since Beagles are hunting dogs by nature, they have a stellar sense of smell that leads them to run and chase. Beagles must be properly trained at a young age to make sure this instinct is manageable.

6. They Have an Even Temperament

Cheerful, merry, fun-loving — all are words that can be used to describe the Beagle. The breed is predictably kind, loving, and loyal. Their steady temperament makes them ideal for family life.

But as wonderful as Beagles are for all types of families, there are a few reasons you may want to give Beagles a second thought before adding one to your family.

7. They Can Be Stubborn

Because Beagles are scent hounds, it can be very hard to get their attention back when they’re on the trail. Getting them to listen to you instead of their instincts can be a challenge. They’re also escape artists. A busy family will have to make sure their Beagle doesn’t get lost in the shuffle, as the breed will find something interesting to follow and take off.

When you own a Beagle, you have to invest some time into training. Beagles do well with positive reinforcement, where they receive a treat for exhibiting the desired behavior.

8. Beagles Can Be Loud

The Beagle has a rather infamous howl. Most Beagles are vocal due to their hunting nature, even if they never go on the hunt and live in the suburbs. That howl/yodeling noise is the Beagle’s way of letting their owner or other hounds in their pack know that they found a scent trail, or something else exciting. If you live somewhere where owning a loud breed could be a problem, such as in an apartment or other space close to other homeowners, think twice. While Beagles can be the perfect family dog, they are simply not a quiet breed.