Whoever owns a Beagle knows how much character this little dog has. The breed was developed in England to run with the hounds and entered into the hunt with quivering excitement. Well, let’s face it, a Beagle enters into all of its activities with quivering excitement. It’s a very happy little dog with an optimistic outlook on life. If attitude is the key to a long life, the Beagle proves it by having the reputation of living to a ripe old age.
Instant obedience is not this dog’s strong suit. In fact, the dog can be very mischievous. When you understand the breed, though, you will forgive the transgression quickly. Beagles are hard to resist as they have such an affectionate, sweet nature. Gain this dog’s loyalty and it will adore you.
A Beagle’s owner should be firm, but not strict. Train with affection and treats and the dog will obey – at least 60% of the time. The problem is that everything that’s going on is of interest to a Beagle. The world is an exciting place, and obeying you 100% of the time would mean the dog is not watching everything else that’s going on. You may not be aware that a hare or a squirrel is in your backyard, but the dog does. He or she needs to alert you to this serious breach of your property.
A Beagle’s home can be an apartment or a house in the city, suburbs, or the country. One of the dog’s passions is walking, though, so never pick up its leash without using it for what it is intended. The dog leaps about and dances at the mere sight of its leash.
No serious grooming is involved. Beagles have fine short hair and a brush is all that’s needed.
Most presidents past and present love their dogs. Lyndon B Johnson adored his Beagles Him and Her. There are countless photos of him playing with his dogs. Unfortunately living in the White House did not save either Him or Her from an early death. Her swallowed a white stone while playing on the lawn in front of the White House. When chasing a squirrel, Him was run over in the driveway by the presidential limousine. This tragedy was reported in the Washington Post, June l6, l966.
Apparently LBJ’s daughter, in tears, gave her father the sad news while he was in a meeting.
It was a devastating loss for the whole family.
LBJ had a third Beagle, named Edgar. Once you own a Beagle, you usually stay with the breed. Few dogs are as lively, happy and fun to have around. They are great watch dogs, which means, of course, they tend to bark a lot, but engaging in everything is just what a Beagle does.
For those interested, we suggested the Beagle for Leo in AstroPups, available on Amazon Books, paperback and Kindle.
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