Buying from Beagle Breeders

The history of the breed of dog called the Beagle is largely unknown. Some say the breed dates back to 200 A.D. Others believe the Beagle descends from 19th century English "Harriers," which are a breed of medium sized English hounds. The breed began to be referred to as "Beagle" in the 1800s and was registered with the American Kennel Club in 1885. Their popularity has raised demand for purebred Beagles. A side effect is that there are both reputable and disreputable Beagle breeders attempting to profit from the sale of purebred puppies.

The subject of this article is finding good Beagle breeders and learning how to avoid bad breeders. Good Beagle breeders ensure the well being of their Beagles. They set up kennels to care for the breed they produce. They care about their reputation. Bad breeders set up puppy mills where they over-breed Beagles without regard to comfort or happiness. Good or reputable Beagle breeders have the following characteristics: Beagle breeders know their breed’s potential genetic defects and have dogs screened by veterinarians for medical and behavioral conditions. Their dogs have all of their immunizations up to date and are usually spayed or neutered. They do not breed unhealthy or maladjusted Beagles. Reputable breeders have their own kennels and do not sell puppies to pet stores. Breeders are involved with the breed, they are experts on Beagles and supportive of Beagle rescue, adoption, and fostering. Beagle breeders have good references such as the AKC (American Kennel Club). They can also refer buyers to other reputable breeders.

Bad breeders can usually be discovered by word of mouth. They may not be versed on even basic Beagle information. Many illegitimate breeders have entered the computer age and use the Web to advertise. Some sites offer "next day" puppy processing which is a sure sign of a bogus business. It is important to report unethical breeders.Research Beagle breeders thoroughly before choosing one to buy your Beagle from. A good place to start your research is the American Kennel Club’s website. Though the AKC cannot specifically endorse the breeders it lists, its subsidiary AKC Parent Clubs can recommend local breeders in each state. Contact phone numbers and other information for breeders are available on the AKC’s site.

Make sure to list specific questions before contacting the breeder. Also visit the facility or kennel if possible to make sure your potential Beagle has been raised in appropriate conditions. Does the breeder offer a warranty and/or return policy? Is medical documentation available? You may also want to ask about rescued Beagles. These are usually adult Beagles who have suffered trauma such as abandonment and neglect. They are less expensive but purebred, though complete lineage information may not be available.

You will be able to enjoy your Beagle for the next ten to fifteen years. Make sure he is a healthy Beagle raised appropriately by a reputable breeder.

The owner of two cats, Michelle Adams supports PETA and the ASPCA and also reports illicit Beagle breeders and other illegitimate breeders. Beagle breeders may have legitimate or illegitimate business practices. This article contains Beagle information and gives tips on how to find good Beagle breeders.