Is it possible to train Beagle Puppies?

If you have had beagle puppies, you’d agree with me that you can have a stubborn, mischievous and thoroughly active puppy. In fact, if you have two of them, they can literally keep you busy the entire day. It’s normal if your beagle puppies are at odds with one another. Being self-absorbed, they can be jealous if they detect your slight preference for one over another.

Many beagle puppy owners wonder if there is even a “remote” possibility that their beagles CAN be trained. This hyperactive pooch seems to have a mind of its own, and being obedient is definitely not one of this breed’s virtues.

1. Use the right training techniques

Based on my personal experience, this is important. Dog owners with no knowledge of dog training, tend to teach dogs from a human perspective. Then, frustration kicks in when the puppy doesn’t seem to understand what its owner wants. Finally, the owner gives up with the belief that the beagle just doesn't have it in him to learn.

The truth is, dogs have different learning styles from humans. A dog learns when he does something voluntarily, with food or dog treats used as incentives. For instance, overturning your puppy with your hands in a bid to teach him “roll-over” doesn’t work. You will just frighten your poor friend.

However, the right way to teach roll-over is to first teach your puppy the “down” command. Then, hold a dog treat with your hand over your puppy’s head and slowly move the dog treat in the direction where you want him to roll over to. At the same time, say “roll-over” to familiarize your beagle with the command.

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Beagle Care & Training E-course Package

Beagle Dog Training

2. Use food as reward

Beagles in general have one thing in common – their love for food. Of course, if your beagle puppy doesn’t seem to adore food as much, you may try changing your food to another brand that is more appealing. Emily (of Jessie, as she is now named) seemed to have no liking for the food we fed her. However, her new owners have discovered her affinity for fish-based dog food. Getting your beagle puppy interested in its food is important in getting him or her trained.

3. Make it hard-to-get

The next step is to get your beagle puppy to pay attention. When in training, use toys or props that are only accessible during training time. This creates that “I want it even more now that I can’t have it” mentality in your beagle puppy. Thus, your beagle puppy is more likely to focus so that he or she is able to get that elusive toy in the end.

4. Start them young, if possible

Puppies have an affinity to please their masters. Use this to your advantage by starting training sessions as soon as they are paying attention to you. As I bred six beagle puppies, Clifford already learnt to sit at 5 weeks old.

5. Give praise and be firm

Try not to dote over your beagle puppy. Many beagle puppy owners do this, and end up with a disobedient dog that thinks of its owner as a peer. If you want to successfully train your beagle, you’ve got to show him or her that you are boss. You are the pack leader and your beagle puppy has to listen to you.

Nevertheless, praise your puppy when he has done right. Also, be generous with your treats, and give him a reward IMMEDIATELY for each trick done right. On the flip side, be firm (but not fierce) to correct him when he has made a mistake.

6. Be patient and have fun!

Beagle puppies are fun-loving canines. So, if you make training feel like a game, your puppy would be more than happy to join you. Be excited about your training session, and your beagle puppy will be too!

Also, it takes lots of patience to train beagle puppies. They don’t always get it right the first time, and it may take several sessions or even several days or weeks before your puppy will get it right. The good news is that it is always easier to train beagle puppies than dogs. Watch my beagle training videos here! Have fun!