Why Beagles are the Worst Dogs (Causes, Pros & Cons)

Beagles are often misjudged as challenging pets due to their strong-willed nature and frequent vocalizations. These traits originate from their role as hunting dogs, which demand persistence and a sharp sense of smell. 🐶 Their tendency to be vocal and stubborn reflects adaptations necessary for their traditional tracking and hunting roles, not flaws. With consistent training and regular exercise, these characteristics can be effectively managed, revealing Beagles as energetic, loyal, and affectionate companions.

Why Beagles are the Worst Dogs

Beagles, cherished for their boundless energy and loyalty, often present challenges due to their hunting heritage. This breeding instills a stubbornness and tendency to be vocal, which can sometimes overwhelm their owners.

However, it’s their specialized breeding for tracking and hunting that often mislabels them as difficult pets. With the right approach to training and regular exercise, these traits can be harnessed to reveal a companion that is both affectionate and lively.

Acknowledging these characteristics can help potential Beagle owners set realistic expectations, fostering a more harmonious relationship with these spirited dogs.

The Mischievous Nature of Beagles

They Believe Stealing is their Day Job

Beagles are known for their cleverness and opportunistic behavior, especially when it comes to food. While they are well-trained to resist food while being watched, their instincts often prevail when left alone, leading to unexpected snacking adventures.

This behavior is driven more by instinct than training limitations. Despite appearances of guilt, Beagles typically relish in their successful scavenging, viewing it as a rewarding exploit.

To illustrate their cunning nature, here’s a snapshot of items Fox, a typical Beagle, couldn’t resist this week:

Category	Items
Sweet Temptations	Cupcakes
Morning Essentials	Coffee filters, Pound of butter
Winter Gear	Mittens, Favorite toque (pompom ripped off)
Healthy Choices	Bag of peppers, Stick of celery, Three apples (acquired over three trips)
Kitchen Misadventure	Wooden spoon

They Bark. A lot

Beagles come in two primary lines: fieldline and showline. The fieldline, or hunting Beagles, are significantly more prone to barking compared to their showline counterparts. This distinction is crucial in managing their behavior.

Effective training to curb barking is essential, especially from a young age. Allowing a Beagle to bark as a puppy because it seems adorable can lead to problematic behaviors that are difficult to correct later.

Particularly in confined spaces like condo apartments, a Beagle that hasn’t been trained to control its barking can quickly become a major issue, potentially leading to eviction. Setting clear boundaries and consistent training are key to harmonious living with these energetic dogs.

They were Magicians in another Life

Beagles: The Houdini of Dogs

Beagles are renowned for their escapology skills. Unlike other breeds, a simple barrier won’t suffice—beagle-proofing requires sturdy, climb-resistant gates at least four feet high.

Their intelligence and persistence turn escape into a challenging game. Clover, for example, can strategize her way out of nearly any enclosure, exploiting the smallest opportunities for freedom.

Owners need to treat their yards like fortresses. If a Beagle spots even a glimpse of the world beyond a fence, they will relentlessly dig until they achieve their escape, proving they are both clever and determined in their pursuits.

Also Read: Does a Dog have a Soul? A Vet & A Religious View!

Destruction is their Middle Name

Beagles are notorious for turning simple items into targets for destruction, whether it’s shredding paper, demolishing boxes, or tearing apart cozy pet beds.

Proper training and sufficient enrichment are crucial to managing their mischievous tendencies. While techniques like crate training and adequate physical activity can mitigate these behaviors, leaving them unsupervised with easily destructible items is not advisable.

For those seeking a “living paper shredder,” a Beagle might just fit the bill, provided you’re ready for their energetic and sometimes destructive play habits!

Beagle Behavioral Traits

They do not Work for Free

Beagles differ significantly from breeds like Golden Retrievers, known for their eagerness to please. Beagles exhibit a strong sense of independence, often requiring visible rewards to engage in training effectively.

Effective relationship building is essential to train a Beagle. Unlike other dogs that may respond well to simple praise, Beagles need substantial motivation to cooperate, often seeming indifferent once rewards are no longer apparent.

For those considering a Beagle, be prepared for extensive groundwork in training, emphasizing consistency and reward-based techniques to foster a cooperative environment.

They are Gross, Little Poo-Eating Beasts

Beagles can exhibit a particularly unsavory habit: eating their feces when unsupervised. This behavior, while frustrating and displeasing, is not uncommon among dogs.

Regular and diligent yard clean-ups are the most effective solution. To mitigate health concerns and maintain hygiene, daily removal of waste is crucial, especially for Beagle owners. Consequently, many choose to avoid face kisses with their pets, prioritizing cleanliness and health.

They love being Stinky

Managing Beagle Instincts

Beagles have an instinct to roll in strong odors, whether it’s deer feces or a deceased amphibian. Owners need to be vigilant in monitoring their environments and promptly cleaning to manage this behavior effectively.

Parts Beagle, 1 Part Mountain Goat

Beagles enjoy elevated spaces, often turning furniture like couches into their racetracks. This penchant for climbing is characteristic of the breed, much like the iconic Snoopy perched atop his doghouse.

Owners need to manage this behavior while acknowledging their natural inclinations.

They cannot be Trusted Off-Leash

Beagles have been selectively bred for thousands of years to excel in hunting by tracking scents independently of their handlers. This instinct makes them unsuitable for off-leash activities like hiking or camping, as they can easily become distracted by a scent.

While Beagles are not ideal for hunting birds or acting as typical sporting breeds, they do excel in scent-driven tracking. Owning a Beagle requires acknowledging their limitations and the need for vigilant supervision.

Beagles are delightful companions that offer endless entertainment and joy, but they are also a challenging breed. For those ready to invest in their unique needs, Beagles can teach a lot about patience and joy.

Also Read: Dog Tail Between Legs! Is Your Dog Scared?

Challenges with Beagle Maintenance

Beagle Home & Furniture Ruin

Beagles may pose challenges for those who prioritize a tidy and quiet home environment. Their energetic nature can lead to damaged furniture and a generally messy living space.

Furthermore, Beagles require consistent training and regular grooming, which can be demanding. Owners must be prepared for the demands of shedding, potential allergies, and the need for ongoing obedience training.

They often disregard commands, opting instead to chase squirrels, dig holes, or steal food.

Beagle Shedding and Allergy Concerns

Beagle hair may trigger allergies and asthma, particularly in children and the elderly.

Beagles are known for their heavy shedding due to their double coat, which loses hair throughout the year and intensifies during seasonal changes. This shedding can lead to Beagle hair being found everywhere in the home, from furniture to food.

Additionally, the presence of Beagle hair can trigger allergies and asthma in sensitive individuals, particularly in children and the elderly. For families with allergy concerns, Beagles may not be the most suitable pet choice.

Beagle Grooming Needs

Frequent vet visits and medications for them can be expensive and time-consuming.

Beagles require extensive grooming, including regular brushing, bathing, and nail trimming. Routine ear cleaning and teeth brushing are also essential to maintain their health.

Health Challenges for Beagles

This breed faces various health issues, such as ear infections, eye problems, obesity, epilepsy, and hypothyroidism. These conditions necessitate frequent veterinary visits and potential ongoing medications.

Cost and Time Considerations

Maintaining a Beagle can be costly and time-consuming, given their need for consistent care and medical attention. Prospective owners should be aware of the high maintenance and associated expenses involved.

Beagle Annoyance

Barking

Beagles will bark and howl at any movement or noise, from other dogs and people to cars, sirens, and even the wind.

Beagles are known for their loud and distinctive bark and howl, which can carry over long distances. They respond vocally to various stimuli, including other dogs, animals, people, and even ambient noises like sirens or the wind.

Noise Challenges with Beagles

This breed’s tendency to express boredom, loneliness, excitement, or anxiety through barking and howling can be disruptive. Such noise can be particularly troublesome for neighbors and may lead to complaints or even reports of disturbance.

Prey Drive

Beagles often chase anything that catches their interest, from rabbits and squirrels to cats, birds, and even children.

Beagles are primarily bred as hunting dogs, equipped with an acute sense of smell and a strong prey drive. They frequently chase anything that piques their interest, from wildlife to small children.

Safety Concerns with Free-Roaming Beagles

This instinct to follow their nose can lead Beagles into dangerous situations, including wandering into traffic or unfamiliar territories.

Such behaviors not only pose risks to the Beagle but can also lead to potential harm or disturbances to others, necessitating careful supervision and containment.

Rolling & Digging

They are drawn to rolling in foul-smelling substances like garbage, feces, or dead animals.

Beagles are known for their messy habits, often rolling in odorous materials like garbage and decaying matter. Their digging can also wreak havoc on gardens and landscapes, challenging for homeowners.

These behaviors can spread diseases and parasites, posing health risks to other animals and people. Owners must implement rigorous hygiene routines to mitigate these risks effectively.

Beagle Health & Well-being Harm

Aggression

They may bite or attack other dogs, animals, or people, including children, strangers, or even their owners.

Beagles may exhibit aggressive behavior, including biting, if not properly socialized or trained. This possessiveness can extend to their food, toys, or space, prompting them to defend themselves vigorously.

Such actions can lead to dangerous situations involving other animals or people, potentially causing harm to both the Beagle and others. Owners might then face legal issues, financial burdens from medical expenses, or lasting emotional impacts.

Anxiety & Depression

They may experience separation anxiety and depression if left alone for extended periods.

Beagles are inherently needy and struggle with separation anxiety and depression when left alone for extended periods. Their distress often manifests in destructive behaviors such as chewing and scratching furnishings.

These dogs also express their anxiety vocally through barking and howling, and physically by pacing and panting. Emotional responses such as trembling or hiding can be stressful for both the Beagle and their human companions.

Genetics

This dog breed’s extensive history of inbreeding and genetic manipulation has led to numerous health issues and genetic defects.

Beagles are highly popular but have been subjected to extensive inbreeding and genetic manipulation, leading to a plethora of health issues. These range from hip dysplasia and epilepsy to more severe conditions like glaucoma and cancer.

Managing these health problems can be both financially burdensome and emotionally taxing for owners. The long-term welfare of Beagles and their quality of life can be significantly compromised by these genetic conditions.

Exercise and Training Needs

Beagles need a lot of Exercise

Beagles require significant exercise due to their high energy levels.

Beagles are inherently energetic and require significant exercise due to their historical role in hunting. This breed thrives on active engagement and may not be suitable for those with a sedentary lifestyle or mobility limitations.

Owners of Beagles need to provide ample opportunities for physical activity to match the breed’s high energy levels, ensuring a healthy and happy pet.

Beagles are Hunters

Beagles are bred as hunting dogs, excelling in tracking small game thanks to their exceptional sense of smell and stamina.

Beagles, originally bred as hunters and known as “scent hounds,” possess an innate ability to track scents, a trait that persists even in non-hunting environments. When out on walks or at dog parks, it’s crucial to keep them leashed to prevent their keen sense of smell from leading them away.

This breed’s strong tracking instinct requires vigilant oversight to ensure they do not wander off in pursuit of interesting scents.

Beagles are Stubborn

Beagles can be stubborn, which often reflects their strong instinctual drives and intelligence.

A beagle’s inherent stubbornness can pose challenges in training, as they often prefer following their noses over obeying commands. If they catch a scent they wish to pursue, it can be difficult to regain their attention, making consistent training and firm guidance essential.

Are Beagles attached to One Person?

Beagles are celebrated for their ability to bond with the entire household, making them cherished family members.

They are intelligent dogs, and while they exhibit a degree of stubbornness, this trait adds to their character rather than making them untrainable. In fact, Beagles are quite responsive to training and enjoy pleasing their owners.

Do Beagles like to Cuddle?

Beagles are not only active but also enjoy cuddling, making them affectionate companions. Despite needing up to 60 minutes of exercise daily, they cherish relaxing moments, whether snuggling on your lap or lounging beside you on the furniture.

Beagle Dog Price

The cost of Beagle puppies from reputable breeders typically ranges between $1,000 and $2,500. 🏷️ This price variation often depends on factors such as the breeder’s location 🌍 and whether the puppies come from championship bloodlines 🏆.

Included in this price are crucial early vaccinations, comprehensive health checks, and genetic testing, ensuring the puppy’s health and pedigree. 🐶💉 These provisions help safeguard the long-term well-being of your new furry friend.

Conclusion: Beagle Pros and Cons

Beagles are beloved for their friendly nature and strong tracking abilities, making them great family pets. However, their keen sense of smell can lead to stubbornness, demanding consistent training and ample exercise. These energetic dogs thrive in active environments but may develop behavioral issues if left unstimulated or alone.

Here’s a quick overview of the pros and cons of owning a Beagle:

Pros	Cons
Affectionate and family-friendly	Prone to stubbornness due to scent drive
Excellent sense of smell and tracking ability	Requires consistent training and exercise
Social and bonds well with multiple family members	Can engage in unwanted behaviors if bored
Generally healthy with proper care	Potential for noise with barking and howling

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why Beagles are the Best Dogs?

Beagles are not only friendly and affectionate but also energetic, making them ideal for active individuals who enjoy outdoor activities like running or hiking. Their lively nature is complemented by a protective bark that can help safeguard your home.

Despite their many uses, including being the most common breed for animal experiments due to their size and temperament, beagles face challenges such as being put down after testing.

In special cases, like the closure of the Envigo breeding facility in 2022, these dogs become available for adoption, offering a unique opportunity to provide a loving home to animals in need.

Why Beagles are the Worst Dogs?

Firstly, it’s essential to clarify that beagles, like all dogs, bring unique qualities that many adore. At Green Matters, we maintain that there are no “worst” dogs. 😂

However, certain characteristics have led some to view beagles as less suitable pets for their lifestyles. Here’s why some might consider them a challenging breed to adopt.

Also Read: Why Does Your Dog Lick Blankets? Habit or Signal?

Why are Beagles Considered one of the Dumbest Dog Breeds?

It’s a common misconception that beagles are among the “dumbest” dog breeds, largely due to their strong-willed nature. In reality, beagles are highly intelligent, excelling in tasks that leverage their keen sense of smell and problem-solving skills. 🧠

Their intelligence can often be misunderstood as stubbornness or disobedience. 🐾 Beagles are scent hounds, designed to make decisions autonomously, which is a sign of their specialized abilities rather than a lack of intelligence.

Understanding and appreciating a beagle’s traits are crucial. What might appear as ‘dumb’ behavior is a demonstration of their innate skills in tracking and sniffing, showcasing the clever companions they truly are.

Why do People have such Bad Opinions about Beagle?

Many people view Beagles negatively due to their independent nature, often mistaken for stubbornness. This perception stems from the breed’s origin as scent hounds, which influences their behavior and training needs. 🐶

Their strong prey drive and tendency to follow scents can sometimes overshadow their intelligent and trainable nature. Proper understanding and training tailored to their instincts can showcase the true capabilities of Beagles. 🌟

Are Beagles the Naughtiest Dogs?

Beagles often engage in destructive behaviors when left alone, finding and chewing on anything within reach. Proper stimulation and supervision are essential to curb these tendencies. 🐾

While not all Beagles are vocal, many will bark or howl in response to unfamiliar situations. Understanding and training can help them manage their natural alertness effectively. 📢

What do Vets think of Beagles?

Beagles, as purebreds, are susceptible to specific health issues such as seizures, hypothyroidism, meningitis, and ear diseases, largely due to their characteristic floppy ears. 🐶

If considering adding a Beagle to your family, adoption is highly recommended to provide a loving home to a dog in need while being aware of their potential health challenges. 💖

At what Age do Beagles Calm Down?

Beagles generally begin to settle down as they mature, usually between 1 to 2 years of age, when their energy levels start to stabilize. Consistent exercise, mental stimulation, and ongoing training are essential in channeling their innate curiosity and vigor effectively. 🐕✨

How Long do Beagles usually Live?

Beagles typically have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years, but they face several health challenges, including cancer, trauma, and neurological conditions. Regular veterinary care is crucial to manage these issues and maintain their health throughout their life. 🐶💪

Are Beagles the Hardest Dog to Train?

Beagles are famously challenging to train due to their exceptional sense of smell, which often leads them to become easily distracted by intriguing scents. This characteristic places them in the category of harder dogs to train, requiring patience and tailored training strategies to effectively manage their focus. 🐕👃

What is the main Cause of Death for Beagles?

Cancer, particularly lymphoma, is a leading cause of death in older pets, with Beagles being especially susceptible to this type of cancer.