Beagles are high-energy dogs that require plenty of exercise. They are bred for hunting, so they have a strong prey drive and an instinct to follow their nose. This means they need an outlet for their energy, or they can become restless and destructive.
So, how much exercise do these adorable pups need? The answer depends on each dog, but most Beagles need at least an hour of exercise a day. It can be a combination of walking, running, and playing. If you can’t give this sweet scent hound the exercise that they need, you might want to consider another breed. In this article are a few tips on how to exercise a Beagle enough, which will help you make a more informed decision!
How Much Exercise Does a Beagle Need?
The answer to this question depends on each dog. In general, however, most Beagles need at least an hour of exercise per day. However, you don’t have to go on long hikes every day to get your dog to exercise. In fact, two 30-minute walks a day combined with active playtime, depending on age, health, and lifestyle, can be enough.
Additionally, Beagles are also good at burning calories on their own. So, if you have a fenced yard, you can let your dog run free or play with a ball. However, never leave your dog unsupervised, as Beagles are known to be escape artists!
If it is too hot outside for your dog, you can still exercise indoors. Play fetch, tug of war, or chase games with your dog, or consider puzzle feeders and mentally stimulating games.
Why Do Beagles Need So Much Exercise?
If you’re not used to giving a Beagle exercise, you may wonder why they need so much of it.
- Beagles are bred to hunt – This means they have a strong sense of smell and a drive to follow their nose. Exercise tires out their muscles and can help them rest better at night.
- Beagles are prone to certain health problems – These may include joint and bone issues, such as hip dysplasia and intervertebral disc disease.
- Beagles are also at risk for obesity – This can predispose them to further health issues. Regular exercise can help prevent these issues.
- Beagles are incredibly sociable – They love people and other dogs, and they need an outlet for all that energy. Without exercise, some dogs can become destructive and anxious. Even though they are small dogs, Beagles can be quite a handful when they are bored and full of energy.
Tips for Exercising Your Beagle
- Start early – The younger that you start your Beagle with regular exercise, the easier it’ll be to make it a habit.
- Keep it interesting – Play hide and seek, set up an obstacle course, use food toys, invent new games to try with your dog; these are just a few of the many ways to keep your best friend mentally and physically stimulated.
- Keep it cool – Beagles can be prone to overheating, so make sure you bring water and exercise in cooler weather only.
- Plan ahead – Make sure you have enough time to spend with your dog. Exercise can take up a great deal of time and effort, but it’s important for your dog’s health and happiness.
Remember that you can always modify the exercise. If your Beagle isn’t up to a long walk, or it’s too hot outside, you can always do a shorter walk or even just play indoors.
How to Keep Your Beagle Safe While Exercising
Here are a few tips to keep Beagles safe during outdoor play and exercise.
Don’t Let Your Dog Off the Leash
Your Beagle will not resist chasing after a new smell encountered during a walk in the park. For your peace of mind and your pet’s safety, always keep your dog on a leash in public places.
Beagle-Proof Your Yard
Beagles are escape artists, so don’t make the mistake of thinking that they’ll play quietly in the yard without trying to get out. Make sure your yard is fully fenced and high enough to prevent any escape attempts. Watch out for the bottom of the fence too, as these dogs are perfectly capable of digging a tunnel to their freedom — and the squirrels at the neighbor’s house!
Avoid Long Hikes in Steep Terrain
Beagles may be prone to developing joint health issues, so it’s best to schedule your exercise periods on flat ground to avoid too much strain on their limbs.
Final Thoughts
Exercise is a crucial part of your Beagle’s health and should be done to keep your dog healthy and to promote the bond that you share with them. Indeed, exercising your dog helps burn calories, improve their health, strengthen their muscles and bones, and increase their overall happiness.
While most dogs love playing, making it a part of your daily routine is especially beneficial if you have a Beagle. They love games and they are great at chasing too! But if you’re not sure where to start with exercising your Beagle, try a simple maintenance routine of daily walks and playtime.
That’s it! With these tips in hand, you now know what to do and what to expect when it comes to how much exercise the lovely, smart, and endearing Beagle needs to thrive.
Now go run and play with your best furry friend and make their life better while doing so!
Featured Image Credit: Przemek Iciak, Shutterstock
How Much Exercise Does a Beagle Need?
