Begle is a breed of small-sized dogs that is similar in appearance to the much larger foxhound. Possessing a great sense of smell and superior tracking instincts, they were developed primarily for hunting hares (beagling). Nowadays, they are one of the primary breeds used as detection dogs for prohibited agricultural imports and foodstuffs in quarantine worldwide.
Overall, Beagles are small, hardy hounds. They have a short coat, a deep chest, stocky legs, and a medium-length tail. Their heads are long compared to their bodies, with low-set drooping ears. Big brown or hazel eyes are set well apart and gaze with the typical, soft hound expression.
Their standard coat is tricolored with white, black, and brown. It is loving, sweet, and gentle, happy to see everyone by greeting them with a wagging tail. It is sociable, brave, and intelligent. The beagle is excellent with children and generally good with other dogs. However, because of its hunting instincts, it should not be trusted with non-canine pets unless socialized with cats and other household animals when young. Beagles have minds of their own. They are determined and watchful and require patient and firm training.
Health Issues:
1. Back Problems: Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is common in Beagles. The disease is caused when the jelly-like cushion between one or more vertebrae slips or ruptures, causing the disc to press on the spinal cord. If your dog is suddenly unable or unwilling to jump up, go upstairs, is reluctant to move around, has a hunched back, cries out, or refuses to eat or go potty, he is likely in severe pain. He may even drag his back feet or be suddenly paralyzed and unable to get up or use his back legs. If you see symptoms, do not wait. Call an emergency clinic immediately.
2. Eye problems: Beagles are prone to numerous eye conditions. These can range from small eyes (microphthalmia) to cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal problems called progressive retinal atrophy. They also get a prolapse of the third eyelid gland (cherry eye), which appears as a red membrane over the eye. Anytime your pet has eye discharge, redness, or paws at one of its eyes, an examination should be performed.
3. Bleeding disorder: On occasion, some Beagles can get a bleeding disorder. If your pet easily bruises or seems to take a long time to clot blood, it should have an examination. Beagles are susceptible to herniated discs. Any time it shows signs of pain or inability to walk properly, this disease might be a cause.
4.Epilepsy: This is another relatively common problem in Beagles. The disease manifests itself as a seizure. Any time your pet has a seizure, it should be brought to our attention.
5.Heart disease: Beagles are prone to multiple types of heart disease. Symptoms, if they occur, include a distended abdomen, difficulty breathing, exercise intolerance, and, unfortunately, even sudden death.
6. Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing’s disease): Cushing’s disease is a malfunction of the adrenal glands causing them to produce too much steroid hormone. This is a common problem in dogs, and Beagles are more likely than other dogs to be affected. The condition usually develops slowly, and the early signs are easily missed. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than usual, increased appetite, and reduced activity. Later, a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss are characteristics. Treatment usually includes oral medications and requires close coordination to ensure correct dosing.
