How to Use Breed Characteristics of Beagles

Beagles make adorable puppies, but before you go out and get one you should understand certain characteristics of the breed that can help make training them easier. All dogs need to be trained to make good companions and small dogs are no exception. Follow these steps to understand the beagle breed.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Understand that beagles can be stubborn. They don't like being told what to do so training needs to be fun to keep them interested.

2. Begin training when your beagle is young. Puppies are easier to train than adult dogs; training needs to be a regular part of your daily routine.

3. Minimize the amount of time your beagle spends alone. Beagles tend to bark when they are bored or lonely; your neighbor won't appreciate the noise.

4. Supervise your beagle constantly during housebreaking. Beagles can be difficult to housebreak and if left unsupervised they will have numerous accidents in the house.

5. Walk your beagle regularly. Beagles are a very athletic breed of dog and need a lot of exercise to keep them happy and healthy; if your beagle doesn't get enough exercise training will be more difficult.

6. Use a leash and collar any time you aren't in an enclosed yard. Beagles are explorers and will run off in search of interesting smells.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you get your beagle from a good breeder. Beagles can develop bad temperament problems if they aren't from good bloodlines.
• If your beagle begins to show aggressive tendencies you should seek the help of a professional trainer.