Why Do Beagles Get Fat?

If you are reading this article about fat Beagles, then you probably already have this problem with your dog. Or you would like to avoid it in the future. You can read hundreds of articles about pleading Beagles’ eyes. Or the idea that Beagles live to eat…) and a combination of these two factors leads to overeating and obesity. Let us not agree to the full….:)

Do you know what all dog trainers say before they start to train your dog?…“First of all learn the basic rules how to communicate with a dog. And only then proceed with obedience training… “

The same with feeding dogs, and especially Beagles. First of all the pet parent should understand the nature of Beagle and his habits. Second – to acknowledge the fact that he is the master and the one who understands and controls behavior of his dog, including food.

Fat Fight Program for Beagles in 2 Steps

• Step 1 – Acknowledge the Problem
• Step 2 – Implement the Solution

Problem 1: Active Hunting Dog at Home

Please, always keep in mind that Beagles are hunting dogs! Yes, nowadays they do not hunt that much. They are also wonderful family dogs and companions. But! they still need as much exercises as hunting dogs, i.e,. minimum two hours daily of active games, running, whatever you can arrange together…This is a key point!

Solution: Active Walks & Exercises

You can’t just wake up and question yourself “Oh my God, do I have to walk him out every morning and let my dog play and run one hour at least?”. This is not a question! This is a fact! You have a Beagle – you actively walk with a Beagle! 🙂

Probably you like to sleep long in the morning.  But if you want to have a healthy Beagle, get up and you two go together to the yard, park, forest, field…whatever you have nearby. It’s easier if you have a big family and other members of your family can replace you from time to time.  Such activities are great for everybody. Try it and in the end of the day you will see how much joy it can bring to your dog, you and the whole family.

Walk at least one hour in the morning an one hour in the evening. If your pet is already overweight, start with half an hour per time of slow walks, and do it 3-4 times a day. Increase the time and speed gradually. Better if you combine simple running with exercises for brain and body. For this purpose use different Interactive Dog Toys for Beagles.

Problem 2: Beagles are Prone to Run Away

I’ve seen only two types of Beagles’ owners: they both accept the fact that Beagles may follow their nose and run away. The difference is that the first invest their time and effort in teaching their pups to come back….and the second try to adjust and get pleasure from the walks with a Beagle on the leash…..:)

Unfortunately the second type prevails…”Oh, my dog can run away, I have no time to search for him in the park…other dogs can bite him….he can be in danger….I’d better never let him off the leash…this is more safe for him…” If you find yourself in the position of the second type…do not forget about Problem 1.

Solution: Make Your Pup Engaged – On & Off-Leash Training – E-Collars Training 

Wake up! Just on-leash walking is convenient and safe only for you! Please understand, you have to use a walking leash only in the beginning, when you teach your puppy. And in parallel – let him run off-leash in safe places like closed yard, parks, fields etc. Make your dog be engaged in different games with you on-leash and off-leash. Be active together with your dog. Train your puppy to walk on leash in a proper way. For this you can refer to a dog handler or watch special online courses with techniques.

If you have finished your leash on-and-off training, but your dog is still prone to run away, continue with training E-collars. They work fantastic! You can easily to teach your pup to come to you on a beep or vibration signal.

You may also like: Best GPS Trackers for Dogs

Problem 3. Beagles are Prone to OverEat

Unfortunately this is true. Most of Beagles can’t control themselves and keep asking for food or treat all day long….if they are allowed!! This is important! – If they are allowed! Beagle are intelligent dogs with pleading beautiful eyes:) They use this killer feature to get food! Believe me, they are not as hungry as they look like:) They try you. If you give in to it once, they will understand this as a permission to keep bagging for food.

Solution: Control What Your Beagle Eats – Use Slow Feeder Bowls & Puzzle Feeder Toys

Be brave and resist the temptation to feed them every time they ask. Beagles, like any other dogs, need scheduled  feeding. 4-5 times for puppies, and 1-2 times for adults. If you give dry food – just stick to the prescribed standards. 150 g / per day means 150 g / per day!!  Not per time!

And it does not mean that you buy high quality dry food and keep thinking your Beagle knows better how much he needs. No, the specialists who developed it and did it well fit and balanced for your dog do know! It doesn’t work this way. Just stick to the norms!

If you prepare the food yourself, the same – stick to norms, feed the dog 4-5 times for puppies, and 1-2 times for adults. And yes, cheese in between also counts! 🙂

Things to Help with Beagles Overweight

• Puzzle feeder toys

If your dog feels hungry of the time and asks for food between feeding sessions, try to use treat dispensing toys from time to time. Your dog will be engaged in the activity – from one side, and will eat the same quantity of food but in a longer period of time.

• Slow feeder bowls

These bowls also help to eat not so fast and feel saturation before the Beagle overeats.

• Diet dry food

If you provide your dog with enough exercises but he gains weight anyway. Or if your dog is already a fat Beagle dog or even obese, we recommend to consult a veterinarian and switch to diet dry food and diet treats.

• Low calorie treats

You may also like: How to Feed a Beagle. A Complete Feeding Guide

Final Thoughts

Feel the Difference and Make Changes!

For a Beagle being slim means not only being beautiful, but first and foremost – healthy and long living. Every month of being fat shortens your dog’s life immensely. And there are some things you can do together with your dog to prevent this or cure your dog.

Always remember – we are here to help you with the right choice. So please do not hesitate to ask any questions because we will answer them right away!