Beagle

Originally bred as hunters, Beagles would spend their days working, mainly following scents. With a big heart to match their big ears, Beagles are agile and intelligent companions.

They're naturally very curious and playful dogs, so tend to be the right fit for families and those with active lifestyles.

Usually, Beagles get on very well with other dogs so could make a great addition to a household that already has pets.

As Beagles are highly intelligent dogs, they're not keen on being left alone for long periods or without any mental stimulation. Not enough exercise could also cause behavioural issues. Many dogs, especially high-energy breeds, become bored and frustrated if they don't get enough outdoor exercise and mental stimulation.

Consider things like lick mats, puzzles, frozen treats and scent games to keep them busy.  

Beagles are inquisitive and energetic, so they need plenty of stimulation (both mental and physical) to keep them happy and healthy.

Fully-grown Beagles need around one to two hours of exercise a day. They also need lots of mental stimulation and playtime when they're at home, whether that's puzzles, lick mats or training.

You should start training them as early as possible to get them into the right habits from the offset. This should include introducing them to other dogs, people and lots of new experiences.

Also, Beagles naturally love a little attention and are prone to barking when they get overexcited! You can reduce this with the right training but bear in mind that it's completely normal behaviour for them to be vocal.

Like all dogs, Beagles need a healthy, balanced diet. They need two meals a day with plenty of nutrients to keep them on top form, depending on their age, size and any existing health concerns.

They can put on weight quite quickly, so it's important to keep an eye on their portion sizes and any extra treats to make sure they're not overeating.

If your Beagle is a puppy, they can be slightly more prone to tummy troubles. Make sure you space out mealtimes and exercise, and be careful not to overfeed them (obesity is common with Beagles).

If you're not sure about what food you should be giving your furry friend, check in with your vet to get their recommendations.

Beagles have a short, waterproof coat and don’t shed a huge amount. They only need brushing around once a week with a soft-bristle brush to remove any excess hair and keep them looking sleek.

Although their floppy ears are part of what makes them so cute, they can make them prone to ear infections as they reduce the airflow into their eardrums.

So, it's a good idea to make regular ear checks and cleaning a part of their grooming routine. Look for any excess, dark-coloured wax or a bad smell.

You can clean the outer part of their ears by using damp cotton wool to gently clear any excess dirt or wax from their outer ears. Then use a recommended ear cleaner from a vet to insert some drops into their ear canal.

If they do have an ear infection, it's always best to chat to your vet about recommended medicines and what to do next.