I would really like to get a beagle, I have heard they are hard to train and housebreak. It would be a house dog and I am really big on obedience, my dogs have to be well trained. I would really appreciate any thing you have to say on these dogs from experience. Thanks Roxanne

-- Roxanne (hmstdlady@webtv.net), November 09, 2000

Answers

Hi Roxanne,

I used to have a beagle that we named "Pig" because he snorted like a pig sometimes. He wa smy baby and I LOVED him. He ended up disappearing after going out for a morning stroll last July. I have not seen him since and even offered a huge reward. Anyways, he was the smartest dog we ever had. He was a stray my son found while out hunting. He was the easiest dog to train for housetraining. He was so small when we got him that he had to be carried down the fron steps. He never once messed in the house, he would bark to go out. He laso was a big baby as well. I would love to get another beagle for that reason, but I am still after a yr tore up about him. Good luck and hope you find one.

-- Bernice (geminigoats@yahoo.com), November 10, 2000.

Hi Roxanne, Beagles are a wonderful breed. I never had problems training them. They are very loyal and fairly smart. However, they will chew up things, so keep put good shoes away. I must admit that I currently don't have any beagles, just 3 basset hounds and a boston terrier.

-- Rich (pntbeldyk@wirefire.com), November 10, 2000.

If you are any where near N. New York they are a dime a dozen know that hunting season is over all these poor pupus that didn't pan out need homes .I too love beagles but at this stage of the game I need working dogs .

-- Patty (fodfarms@slic.com), November 10, 2000.

When getting any dog, try to get it directly from the breeder. Pet- store puppies can be difficult to house break, no matter what breed they are. We've never had a beagle, but friends had one, and our daughter and son-in-law adopted an old one from a shelter. They like to get out and run, and don't always come when called (they get too interested in whatever they are smelling!), so it would be a good idea to have a securely fenced yard. Otherwise he is likely to end up getting too far from home and getting lost or run over.

-- Kathleen Sanderson (stonycft@worldpath.net), November 10, 2000.

I have had Beagles most of my life. Have one now and a couple of Basset Hounds. They are easily house trained, intelligent, loyal and loving. Their noses do tend to get them into trouble at times. They are wonderful dogs for children. Also, in my experience, get along well with other animals.

-- Terri Perry (stuperry@stargate.net), November 10, 2000.

I absolutely LOVE Beagles! I absolutely DO NOT have the time or patience to own them. We used to raise them, and if you want a superb rabbit dog, they are the best! If you want a dog that is the best with klids, and I mean even little babies that will grab their ears and go for a ride, they're the best. BUT, you must keep them restrained, and that means either inside or in a very strong pen. They love to chase! Rabbits, squirrels, marmots, deer (BIG problem),trucks, cars, lizards, coyotes,lying democrats (big problem here because of the ubiquitiousness) and anything else that moves. With our rural small farm, we have settled on collie cross-breeds, and have been very happy. Love those beagles, but now love the peace of mind. Whatever your decision, I know you'll love your puppies!, and GL!

-- Brad (homefixer@SacoRiver.net), November 10, 2000.

The only drawback to beagles, as mentioned by others, is their tendency to roam. They are excellent escape artists and have a tendency to get out of a fenced back yard unless it is super secure. It is just because they are so intense in following their nose. Unfortunately, the very characteristic that makes them a good example of their breed, makes them harder to own. Good luck. They are definitely sweethearts.

-- Colleen (pyramidgreatdanes@erols.com), November 13, 2000.