Reptile & Amphibian Forums

If I get one, I'm worried my beagle might bark all night long and bother our neighbors...Any suggestions? :cS

>>If I get one, I'm worried my beagle might bark all night long and bother our neighbors...Any suggestions? :cS>>>

That's a valid concern with a Beagle, since they were intentionally bred to be loud enough for the hunter to be able to hear the pack from a distance! Best idea is to keep your dog inside at night, and any other time you're not supervising the dog outdoors. Beagles also like to follow scent, and will leave a yard to go off after an interesting smell.
-----
Kathy Diamond Davis, author, "Therapy Dogs: Training Your Dog to Reach Others," 2nd edition, and the free Canine Behavior Series at www.veterinaryforum.com

Heh...In that case, is there any way to train them to tolerate cats? I know...Probably impossible...

>>Heh...In that case, is there any way to train them to tolerate cats? I know...Probably impossible...>>>

Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Some dogs easily take to cats, especially if raised with them. Beagles have a reputation for doing pretty well with other pets. You would need to supervise at first, not leave the dog alone with the cats.

Dogs will chase cats who run from them, so your particular cats and how they act with dogs can be a big factor. If they are good with dogs, that's a huge help. Even if they aren't, they may be able to adjust.

You'll need to make sure the dog never gets started chasing the cats. Use a leash if necessary, and reward the dog with treats for ignoring the cat and looking at you instead.

Over time, the cats tend to get used to the dog if you are careful not to let the dog chase them. As they all calm down, you might even eventually be able to leave them alone together. This works in many situations where you only have one or two dogs and they're not particularly predatory toward cats.
-----
Kathy Diamond Davis, author, "Therapy Dogs: Training Your Dog to Reach Others," 2nd edition, and the free Canine Behavior Series at www.veterinaryforum.com

Thanks again!