Some Helpful Hints (for puppies and for older dogs just
joining the family)
We feed Innova (puppy formula until age 8 months and then adult small breed)
Use the crate to help you during the adjustment period. The dog will not automatically know where you want him to do "his business". Take him from the crate to the desired place and give a command - could use "go potty", "hurry" etc. (which will mean nothing to him in the beginning) But when he does accomplish his task, praise him lavishly and reward with a treat. In a very short time, the action - word - praise will come together for him.
Never allow a small child to approach the dog when the dog is eating. Any dog, and especially a food motivated dog like the beagle will consider this a threat and attempt to protect his food.
Don’t expect the dog to know your rules immediately. Don’t give him the run of the house until you’ve made it known if he can get on the furniture, go in the bedroom etc.
The first few days in a new place, the dog may whine or bark in his crate. Give him a command to hush and reinforce with a squirt of water. Try covering the crate with a towel. Usually he’s just a little lost and confused and will settle back into a routine quickly.
If he shows signs of anxiety when you leave, give him something to occupy himself like a favorite toy, a chewy etc. while you make your exit. Often a radio or TV left on in your absence will keep him company.
Your Beagle will respond best to praise and treats when he does what you want.
A bored dog can become a loud or destructive dog.
Beagles need to play and run off energy.
Don’t forget ear care. Those adorable floppy ears trap moisture that causes problems.
Apply Bitter Apple to items to deter chewing - DON’T FORGET THE ELECTRICAL CORDS.
We use Brewers Yeast and Garlic tablets for flea control and by giving 1 tablet per day we can usually avoid using Frontline etc. except during the height of flea season.
Monthly heartworm preventative is a MUST !
The internet has hundreds of helpful sites for training, health etc.
Some helpful links
http://www.beaglesavvy.com/beagle-training.html
http://www.akc.org/breeds/beagle/
http://www.beagles-on-the-web.com/
http://www.clickertraining.com/
http://clubs.akc.org/NBC/
