Training Beagle Puppies

By R. Hennessy

Instructions

Instillling Good Habits Early

Step 1:
Training a beagle puppy can present many rewards as well as challenges. Characteristics that made you fall in love with the breed may also be a source of frustration when you train your little dog. Being aware of the benefits and drawbacks you may encounter when training your beagle puppy helps ensure that the two of you will survive the training process without problems. Begin training your beagle puppy right away, when he is about eight weeks old. The beagle is usually stubborn and starting training right away will help ensure good habits from the beginning. Throughout training sessions, be consistent, patient and firm, and your beagle will reward you with cooperation and obedience.

Potty Training

Step 1:
Potty training provides your first challenge as a new beagle owner. The beagle is an intelligent animal and you should utilize his intelligence during potty training. Develop a regular routine with your beagle puppy that he can count on. Take your puppy outside during the times he is most likely to eliminate. These times include as soon as he wakes up in the morning, following meals, following playing, after getting out of his crate, and hourly throughout the day when you are home. Using a crate for your puppy's sleeping quarters is particularly advantageous since the beagle is a very clean dog and dislikes getting his sleeping area dirty and wet.

Leash Training

Step 1:
Known for its keen scenting ability, the beagle has a one-track mind when he encounters the intriguing smell of a wild rabbit or hare. This characteristic of the beagle makes leash training extremely important both for your beagle's safety and for your peace of mind. Keep your beagle puppy on a short leash until he gets used to walking at your side. When your beagle puppy starts to tug, gently pull the leash back until he walks at your side and use a verbal command, such as "heel" or "walk." Do not allow your beagle puppy to pull repeatedly on the leash; in addition to being intelligent, the beagle is also stubborn, and he can easily develop the hard to correct habit of tugging on the leash which will quickly make your walks together miserable.

Obedience Training

Step 1:
All puppies should learn obedience training and beagle puppies are no exception. The beagle's trademark exuberant personality will make this part of training especially enjoyable for you. Use treats to get your beagle puppy to move his body into the correct position with each command and remember to praise and pat your puppy when he obeys. In addition to teaching the basic commands of "sit," "down," and "stay," be sure to teach your beagle puppy the "come" command. This command holds special importance for a beagle due to its tendency to meander away in search of a scent. On those occasions that your beagle puppy is uncontained without a leash, for his own safety you need him to be in the habit of coming to you when you give him that command.

Resources

Training materials from Bones Beagles Rescue Organization

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