Beagle

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Beagle

Breed: Beagle
Temperament: Friendly but stubborn
Cost: $500
Lifespan: 12-13 years
Recommended for: Families
Popularity: Rising
Maintenance: Low
Dumpage Rate: Low

What is small, energetic, low maintenance and good company for children under the age of 10 years? Besides another small child, the choice is a Beagle.

'Burke's Backyard' recommends the Beagle as one of the best overall family dogs for children under the age of 10 years.

Appearance

In Australia Beagles are about 30-40cm (13-16") tall and weigh 11-13kg (24-30lb). They are a small to mid-sized breed, with a short, smooth coat usually tricoloured or tan and white.

Temperament & training

The Beagle is said to be lively, inquisitive, and tolerant of children but most owners admit they are also stubborn and single-minded especially if nosedown on a scent! Most people who have owned Beagles soon realise that some skill is required to train them.

Beagles are used successfully by the Australian Quarantine Inspection Service (AQIS) in major airports to detect illegal imports.

Steve Austin, of Hanrod Dog Training Centre, who trains the AQIS Beagles, says of 20 Beagles offered for training only one may be suitable. These dogs need to display initiative, independent thinking, and respond to food rewards. He says these dogs are selected for a specific purpose, using their sense of smell - at which they excel - but pet Beagles may require more time and perseverance to train. A structured training program is strongly recommended for all Beagles.

Health & lifespan

The Beagle is a tough little dog with few health problems. Main areas to watch are: obesity - which can lead to problems such as back strain.
anal glands - some owners report problems with blockages in the dog's anal glands, located on either side of the anus. This is usually indicated by the dog dragging its bottom along the ground. It can be treated at home by squeezing out the affected area or if you are unsure about doing this, take your dog to a vet.
Most Beagles live for 12-13 years.

Ideal owner, space & exercise

The Beagle is highly recommended as a pet for families with children under the age of 10 years. As Beagles are adept diggers, the yard must be well-fenced. As with all breeds, they must be on a leash when walked.

Grooming & feeding

The short, smooth coat needs an occasional wash and brush. Beagles are said to "vacuum" up their food and must have their diets monitored.

Housepet potential

Being a small, smooth-coated dog they suit many people as an indoor dog, although they do develop a very "doggy" odour even when washed regularly.

Further information

ACT
Breeder: Frank Samsa
Phone: (02) 6292 5340

NT
North Australian Canine Association
Phone: (08) 8984 3570

QLD
Beagle Club of Qld
Secretary: Lee Barke
Phone: (07) 3824 3003

SA
Beagle Club of SA
Kathy Dunstan
Phone: (08) 8383 6363

TAS
Tasmanian Canine Association
Phone: (03) 6272 9443

VIC
Beagle Club of Victoria
Penny Meulenkamp
Phone: (03) 5995 4304

WA
Beagle Club of WA
Secretary: Marion Watson
Phone: (08) 9296 4846

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Disclaimer: Burke's Backyard and Backyard Blitz do not accept payment to promote products. All recommendations are genuine. Details on the fact sheets are accurate at the time of publishing, however prices and contact information are not updated and may change.