With its compact size, intelligence and friendly nature, the beagle ranks among today's most popular dog breeds. Members of the hound group, beagles were bred to hunt rabbits and other small game. While many still hunt today, most fill the role of beloved family pet.
Beagles are not for everyone, though. They need plenty of exercise and love to follow their noses. This can lead some to wander. They also love to bark---it's what they were bred to do. If barking annoys you or your neighbors, think twice about a beagle. A beagle puppy is a big commitment. Finding the right one takes time and research.
Instructions
Find a Beagle Puppy
1. Make a list of your preferred traits including gender, color and size. Decide whether you want a show quality beagle, a good hunter or a family dog. If you want a show beagle, learn the breed standard. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), purebred beagles come in two size varieties. The 13-inch variety includes beagles measuring up to 13 inches; the 15-inch variety includes those measuring between 13 and 15 inches. Beagles come in any hound color. This includes almost any shade or combination of black, white, tan, brown, red or "lemon," which is a golden-yellow shade.
2. Determine how far you're willing to travel to find a beagle puppy. Because beagles are very popular, you can probably find a suitable one close to home. If not, some beagle breeders will ship your puppy or will drive partway to meet you.
3. Set a budget. Most beagle puppies run between $300 and $600. Some sell for $1,000 or more. If you don't care whether your beagle will be a registered purebred, you may be able to adopt one from an animal shelter or rescue organization.
4. Find beagle puppies for sale. Seek referrals for quality breeders from beagle clubs, veterinarians, dog kennels and groomers. If you are considering adoption, check nearby animal shelters.
5. Call breeders to ask detailed questions on the looks, size, temperament, activity level and barking tendency of both the puppies and their parents. If hunting will be important, ask about the field skills of the dam and sire. Because it's important to socialize beagles early to avoid aggression, find out whether the puppies have been handled by both adults and children and whether they have spent time with other pets.
6. If possible, visit the beagle breeder to play with and select your puppy. Compare the puppies to each other. Are they curious and playful? Are some more timid, more active or louder than the rest? If you can't visit, ask the breeder to evaluate the puppies based on the qualities you want.
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