Reasons Not to Recommend Owning Beagles

People keep pets primarily to bring joy into their lives. Dogs are a common type of pet, and Beagles enjoy high global recognition. However, many who have owned Beagles advise friends to avoid choosing this breed. Beagles are a small breed, and those unfamiliar with them often mistakenly assume these dogs have gentle temperaments and are easy to care for. The reality is quite different—people are easily misled by their appearance.

1. Voracious Appetite and Large Food Consumption

Dog food is the primary diet for pet dogs, and high-quality dog food helps maintain their health. Monthly dog food expenses add up, and Beagles consume far more than average small breeds. For the average working-class household, owning a Beagle can impose a significant financial burden.
These dogs also exhibit voracious eating habits. They will consume every last morsel offered, continuing to eat even after they are full. Owners unfamiliar with this trait may repeatedly offer food when the dog shows signs of hunger, inadvertently leading to weight gain.

2. High Destructiveness

While Huskies are famously known for their destructive tendencies, Beagles are no less destructive. Many even call them “miniature Huskies.”
Despite their small size, Beagles can rival large breeds in their destructive power. Any object that catches their interest will be approached and chewed on when the owner isn’t looking. Even if the owner cleans up after the dog constantly, maintaining a tidy home environment can be challenging.

3. Prone to Barking with a Piercing Voice

Beagles are nicknamed the “Voice of the Forest” due to their loud and shrill barks, which most people find jarring. Beyond the unpleasant tone, they bark frequently—often without external triggers—which can easily strain neighborly relations.
Residents in apartment complexes may face complaints from neighbors if they keep Beagles. Imagine the awkwardness of neighbors coming to discuss the issue; this alone might deter many from considering ownership.

4. Strong Body Odor

Both cats and dogs have body odor, though the intensity varies. Preparing for this is essential before getting a pet. Dogs with milder odor only need bathing every few days, but Beagles have an exceptionally strong scent. Their fur only carries a fresh scent for a few hours after a bath.
Beagles have large, floppy ears. If owners fail to clean them promptly, ear infections may develop, making the odor even more pronounced.

5. Limited Obedience

Beagles rank near the lower end of canine intelligence scales. Their limited comprehension often makes grasping their owner’s intentions difficult, resulting in poor obedience. In daily interactions, their struggle to understand commands frequently leads to mischievous behavior. Training becomes significantly harder without using treats as incentives.