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is a pocket (mini)beagle a good idea ? i was advised they get sick bc of being crossbreed with small dogs

im a first time buyer and want a small beagle but i was told thats not good bc they get whats called a litter dog (smallest of the bunch ) and cross breed it with another and if not done right with healthy dogs most likely will get sick or die of illness


Asked by Guest 156419 on Nov 5th 2009 in Health & Safety
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Kitana

Whoever breeds a dog like this isn't doing it responsibly and should be avoided. When making a smaller version of a certain breed can result in lots of health problems such as serious heart issues. I suggest finding a good breeder that breeds for the soul purpose of improving the breed standard and health or go to your local shelter and adopt.


Kitana answered 3 weeks, 5 days ago. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 1 Report this answer


Ch. Ali, CGC

ANY breeding that is done without complete health certifications on BOTH parents is asking for health issues in the pups, but, yes, this is even more of an issue when people try to make designer dogs because they tend to never do any type of health checks and will breed tiny dogs with ill health just to create what they are looking for. If you find a reputable beagle breeder who health tests their breeding dogs you can get a 13 inch beagle and that's how big it will be!! A reputable breeder is going to give you health guarantees as well, and copies of the parents health certifications. And, surprise, you will probably have to pay less than you would for that designer dog!


Ch. Ali, CGC answered 3 weeks, 5 days ago. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 1 Report this answer


Katie

Hi there!

As a first-time buyer, you might want to look into adoption instead. Both my dogs are adopted; one is purebred, the other a complete mutt. We love them both, and are so happy to know that we saved them from being put down at the animal shelter.

You can find dogs of all sizes and ages through public and private shelters and rescues, so if you want a small Beagle, I'm sure there's a Beagle rescue group out there that has the perfect pet for you! People who volunteer for rescue groups are generally very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the breed, and they don't have a profit motive, so their advice is usually very reliable.

If you have your heart set on a purchase, rather than a rescue, make sure you meet the breeder, and both parents. If either the dam or the sire of the litter is vicious or aggressive, walk away, no matter how cute the pups. You should be focused on behavior, even more than size, for your future companion! Also, pups should not leave mom before 8 weeks.


Katie answered 3 weeks, 4 days ago. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer


Ty

Yes the chance of them being sick, can get higher if the breeder is just out for a fast buck and breeding smaller dogs to smaller dogs. Ask the breeder for health records and copies of vet checks if you do go this route.


Ty answered 3 weeks, 4 days ago. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer


Charlie

You can easily get a 13" Beagle. That's a healthier size then say, one that's under 12" or smaller. Runts being bred to runts causes a lot of problems, especially when a vet isn't involved in the puppies lives to ensure their health.

I'd also recommend a Beagle rescue if you want a Beagle. They can be stubborn little dogs, but a rescue would set you up with the right dog for your experience and lifestyle, no matter the breed.


Charlie answered 3 weeks, 4 days ago. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer


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