Pocket Beagles

pocket beaglesSmall dogs are growing in popularity as companions, and more miniature versions of your favorite breeds are becoming available including Pocket Beagles. These feisty miniature versions of Beagles have the same attributes but are more suitable for apartment living for those who don’t have a lot of land. They are friendly and easy to groom and make a great family pet.

Pocket Beagle Characteristics

These little pups have the same personalities of their larger relatives, but range from 7 to 15 lbs. They were bred as early as the 13th century as tiny hunting companions before larger Beagle breeds became popular. Pocket Beagles are considered hound dogs, and their small stature made them an ideal choice to track small prey like rabbits.

These little dogs are very friendly and love everyone they meet. They are gentle and personable dogs who make very good companions, and prefer not to be alone. Their sociable nature also makes them a good fit for families with children and other pets. They are smart and energetic, so keep them entertained so that they don’t get into mischief.

Their coats are relatively short and easy to keep groomed without requiring frequent baths and brushing. Pocket Beagles have soulful eyes and floppy ears, and they can have fur in a variety of colors and combinations just like standard beagles.

Things to Be Careful Of

Beagles of all sizes love their food, which means they aren’t good at cutting themselves off when they’ve had enough. It’s important for owners of Beagles to carefully portion out meals so that their dog doesn’t become unhealthy and overweight. Another thing to keep in mind about Beagles is that they were bred to follow scents while hunting. With that in mind, be sure not to leave them unsupervised in a yard that isn’t fenced because if they catch an enticing scent they will follow it wherever it leads. That finely tuned nose could lead them to unsecured food or trash in the house as well.

Beagles are also bred to alert their hunting companions when they’ve found prey. As such, barking and baying can become excessive. Be prepared to put in the work to train them not to be too noisy. Giving them plenty of attention and exercise will help greatly with their obedience. Since they are considered a pack dog, firm leadership is required to keep them in line.

Training Beagles

Beagles can have stubborn personalities, and training them takes a lot of patience and creativity. However Beagles are very motivated by food, so positive reinforcement with treats will entice them to obey. Just be sure not to go overboard with treats, since Beagles don’t know their limits and will eat until they make themselves sick if given the chance.

Since house training Beagles can be a lengthy process, crate training is recommended as a useful tool. They are also a lively breed with a lot of stamina, so it’s helpful keep them entertained and exercised so that they are less prone to find entertainment on their own terms. They are a loving and playful breed, so aggression shouldn’t be a concern. However, properly socializing them with other animals and small children will help them to know their limits and play gently.

It also helps to remember that even with strict training, food and enticing smells will always be a weakness for this breed (they were bred to follow scents, after all). For their own well-being keep garbage and food securely out of reach. Also be sure to keep your dog on a leash during walks. While underground fences will deter them, they may decide to ignore the shock if something enticing is on the other side. Keep that in mind when deciding how to secure your yard.

Final Considerations

Pocket Beagles are adorable and friendly dogs, and make a great addition to any family. They are a very lovable breed and if you are willing to put the time and patience into training them they will make a very pleasant pet. Their love for food can get them into trouble, but the perk of such a small dog is that it is relatively easy to keep temptation out of reach.