Talk to me about Beagles.

[mum2bubba]

We are considering getting one, same with my sister and her boyfriend. We have never owed one but have read alot about them.

Does anyone here own a beagle (or beagles)? Can you please tell me the pros and cons.

Thankyou. :)

[LilMissnBoo]

DH had one growing up. They need training and a lot of exercise.

They get bored easily and you need to have a good fenced in yard as they will escape.

HTH

[SassyMummy]

I don't know much about them, but do agree - they need a really good fence to keep them in. They're sniffer dogs, so once they find a scent, they will track it. They're intelligent dogs, so need a lot of stimulation.

[Kittylou]

We looked after my brother's beagle for several years while he was unable to have him.

Pros - he had an absolutely beautiful nature
- was extremely patient with children

Cons - they need a LOT of exercise (obviously only a con if you don't have enough time)
- they are hunting dogs and when they get on a scent can be off like a shot
- they can dig their way out of virtually anywhere - ours got out several times. When my brother took him to his new house, he had a new fence built with a foot of concrete underground so he couldn't dig under it and he hasn't managed to get out of there.
- they shed a lot of hair

I just loved our beagle, he was the loveliest dog I've ever had, but I would never get another one because they just aren't suitable for our family.

[leishi]

You need a LOT of time to dedicate to beagles. They need heaps of exercises and stimulation, and you can't take your eyes off them for a minute!! They are constantly trying to get into things because of that nose. They can be very naughty! Never ever leave your shoes on the ground ;) Having said all that though, Molly is very cute and loves us to death and wants to please us, she just doesn't always know how.

[mum2bubba]

Yep, I know they're hunting dogs and was told we can't let them off the leash when taking them for walks which is fine. Our house is fenced very good and plan on excersising him/her. We plan on gettng an adult one from a rescue shelter rather than a puppy. We are hoping he/she can sleep inside but still play/go outside in the day.