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Beagles are Pets
Too!
 Beagles
have been used for hunting in Newfoundland and other areas for decades
and have commonly been called "hunting" or "rabbit" dogs. Because these
dogs have been associated with outdoor sport for generations, it has
lead to the opinion that beagles, and hounds in general, should be kept
as "outdoor" dogs requiring minimal care and little human interaction.
While some hunters may consider their dogs to be loyal
companions who deserve
the comforts of indoor living, the majority of people who use beagles
to hunt share the belief that their dogs must stay outside to maintain
the instinct to hunt prey. Nothing could be further from the
truth. Yes, it is a beagle's instinct to hunt and that is a trait
he/she is born with. Just as it's a collie's instinct to chase
and herd, hounds will find and follow a scent. Keeping a dog
outside away from it's human companions, does not increase it's desire
or willingness to hunt, chase, herd, or act instinctively in any
way. A beagle kept outdoors is no more skilled as a predator than
a beagle who sleeps at the foot of a bed each night.
This misguided view of beagles has lead to many myths
surrounding their acceptable care and adequate living conditions.
|
 Myth: A
beagle must be hungry in order to hunt and should be fed every other
day. |
| Fact:
All dogs must
receive a well-balanced diet of high quality dog food each day
especially if
they are involved in regular outdoor activity. |
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| Myth:
Spaying/neutering dogs ruins their ability to hunt. |
| Fact:
There is no physical or behavioural evidence that shows
spayed/neutered beagles are less effective hunters. |
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| Myth:
Beagles should be kept in outdoor enclosures or pens |
| Fact:
Beagles enjoy the fresh air and should receive plenty of
exercise through routine walks on a leash or in a fenced area. It
is inhumane to keep a dog confined to a small enclosure for long
periods of time. |
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| Myth:
Beagles can withstand the cold winter months with
minimal shelter. |
| Fact:
A beagle's coat is smooth or short-haired and is not meant to
protect against harsh weather conditions. Dogs who are left
outside in the cold with inadequate shelter may suffer from sever
frostbite, hypothermia and possibly death. The best place for a
beagle is inside with his/her human family. |
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| Myth:
Beagles are dirty and have a distinctive smell. |
| Fact:
Most people have experienced the sight and smell of a beagle
kept outside in a pen that is in desperate need of a good
cleaning. The result, a dog that lives in it's own mess becomes
associated with a foul odour. Any dog that does not receive the
proper bathing and grooming will emit an unpleasant smell. |
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| Myth:
Beagles aren't meant to be pets and can't be
housetrained. |
Fact:
Beagles are one of the most affectionate and loyal of all dog
breeds. They are great with children and make loving
companions. Though they may be stubborn to house train at times,
all they require is a consistent routine and plenty of praise.
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"Beagles are Pets Too!"
provided by the Humane Services Animal Shelter (709) 576-8677
Photos provided by www.animalsvoice.com |
