Is a male Beagle a good dog?

Answer 1

I've had several male beagles, and I love them, but, they are hard to train. You cannot ever let them run free, if they get the scent of something they could be gone for days. My husband hated our last one, it was mutual, I think they both thought they were top dog. If my husband came to bed after me the dog wouldn't let him in the bed with me. I can't say I've heard of many beagles being possessive like that. Overall with the right training they can be great dogs, they really like people.

Answer 2

Your definition of "a good dog" depends on what you're looking for.

Beagles are playful, friendly, and easygoing. They get along well with other dogs and are good 'velcro' dogs -- which means they're good if you like a dog that's always right next to you and always wants attention. If that'll irritate you, they may not be the breed for you. Ours sheds a lot and is kinda gassy too, but may be him and not all beagles. ;) Oh, and if barking (and I mean a LOT of barking) will irritate you, choose another breed. These guys are hard to stop.

I have found my beagle to be very easy to train, but he is extremely food-motivated. He learns and obeys quickly, but if you leave trashcans or plates of food where he can reach them, you'd be expecting a miracle if you expected him to 'behave' by staying out of them.

If you want a dog to walk off-leash or play with in unfenced areas, a beagle is NOT the dog for you. It's not that they WANT to run off, it's just that they get focused on a scent and just run without any thought for where they're going or how to get back.

Beagles don't come to mind when I think of dogs whose health and temperments have been spoiled by overbreeding, BUT they are very popular so there are lots of breeders. A poor breeder is more interested in your money than in her dogs and might be selling you a problem dog; if so, don't expect support from her after the sale, either. A good breeder can be a pain because she is very picky and will ask you tons of questions, but that's because she cares. It's worth it.

On the other hand, beagles are so popular that it can be very easy to find good beagles of all ages in rescue, which is much less expensive, not to mention you can get an adult dog whose personality is not an unknown factor, who might already be housetrained, and is almost certainly already vetted and neutered.

Answer 3

Good for what? It's a good hunting dog, but is not everyone's cup of tea as a pet. They are smart and strongheaded, and singleminded on a scent. They are loving and loyal dogs, but you must take into consideration why they were created in order to fully appreciate beagles.

Answer 4

My dad's friend has a male beagle that I grew up with and is the most good-natured dog I know and will sit there for hous play catch, laying with you, and just sitting there to keep you company.

Answer 5

Beagles are great dogs, awesome personality. Remember though, they were bred for hunting and sometimes have the tendency to run.