How Much Exercise Do Beagles Need?

Beagles are a breed of dogs that have been known to be highly energetic, playful, and active. They have an instinct to hunt and explore and require adequate physical activity to stay healthy and happy. As a beagle owner, it is vital to understand how much physical activity your furry friend needs and how you can help your pup meet their exercise requirements. In this article, we will discuss in detail the amount of exercise that Beagles need.

How Much Exercise Do Beagles Need?

Beagles are not particularly lazy dogs, and they love to be active. It is vital to note that exercise does not only mean physical activity such as running, walking, and playing. It also involves mental stimulation that challenges their instincts. Games such as hide and seek and chasing games can provide your beagle with the exercise they need while engaging their mental strengths.

If your beagle does not receive enough exercise, they can become bored, depressed, and restless, which can lead to destructive behavior. This is why it is essential to meet your beagle’s exercise requirements.

Factors That Affect Exercise Needs

The amount of exercise that a beagle needs depends on several factors, such as:

• Age: Younger beagles tend to have more energy and curiosity than older ones, so they need more exercise to burn off their excess calories and prevent boredom. Older beagles may slow down and become less active as they age, so they need less exercise but more gentle and regular activity to maintain their mobility and joint health.
• Size: Beagles come in two sizes: 13-inch and 15-inch. The 13-inch beagles are smaller and lighter than the 15-inch ones, so they may tire faster and need less exercise. However, both sizes are equally energetic and need adequate exercise to prevent obesity and health problems.
• Health: Beagles are generally healthy dogs, but they may suffer from some genetic or acquired conditions that affect their exercise needs. For example, beagles are prone to hip dysplasia, a condition that causes the hip joint to deteriorate and cause pain and lameness. Beagles with hip dysplasia may need less or more exercise depending on the severity of their condition and the advice of their veterinarian. Beagles may also develop hypothyroidism, a condition that causes low thyroid hormone levels and leads to weight gain, lethargy and hair loss. Beagles with hypothyroidism may need more exercise to help them lose weight and boost their metabolism.
• Personality: Beagles have different personalities and temperaments, which affect their exercise needs. Some beagles are more laid-back and calm, while others are more hyperactive and restless. Some beagles are more sociable and enjoy playing with other dogs or people, while others are more independent and prefer exploring on their own. Some beagles are more obedient and easy to train, while others are more stubborn and challenging. The personality of your beagle will determine how much exercise they need and what type of exercise they enjoy.

General Guidelines For Exercise

As a general rule of thumb, most beagles need at least one hour of moderate to vigorous exercise per day. This can be divided into two or three sessions of 20 to 30 minutes each. However, this is only a guideline and you should adjust it according to your beagle’s individual needs and preferences.

Some signs that your beagle needs more exercise are:

• They are restless or hyperactive at home
• They bark excessively or chew on inappropriate items
• They dig holes in the yard or escape from the fence
• They show signs of boredom or depression
• They gain weight or become obese

Some signs that your beagle needs less exercise are:

• They are panting excessively or have difficulty breathing
• They limp or show signs of pain or discomfort
• They refuse to walk or play
• They show signs of exhaustion or fatigue
• They lose weight or become underweight

Types of Exercise for Beagles

There are several types of exercises that you can engage your beagle in to ensure that they are getting the exercise they need. These include:

Walking: Walking is an excellent exercise for beagles. They love to explore and sniff around, making walks an ideal way to stimulate their senses. You can make it more fun by changing up the routes or alternating between fast and slow-paced walks.

Running: Beagles are natural runners, and running is an excellent cardiovascular exercise for them. Keep in mind that you need to build up your beagle’s stamina gradually if they are not accustomed to running.

Playing fetch: Beagles enjoy playing fetch, and it’s a fantastic way to stimulate both their physical and mental energy. You can use toys such as balls and frisbees for a game of fetch.

Swimming: If you have access to a dog-friendly pool or lake, swimming is a great exercise for beagles. Swimming is an excellent low-impact exercise, and it’s a fantastic way to keep your beagle cool during hot summer days.

Tips to Help Your Beagle Get Enough Exercise

Get into a routine: Establish a regular exercise routine for your beagle. This will help them get into a regular exercise habit, and they will come to expect the daily activity.

Use a leash: Always use a leash when walking or running with your beagle. This will keep them safe and prevent them from running into traffic or getting lost.

Adjust exercise to age and health: Older beagles or those with health problems may not tolerate long or strenuous exercise. Adjust their exercise accordingly to avoid injury or unnecessary stress.

Mix it up: Variety is the spice of life, and this is true for beagle exercise routines too. Mix up the types of exercises that you do with your beagle to keep them mentally stimulated and engaged.

Conclusion

It is essential to understand the amount of exercise that your beagle needs to keep them physically and mentally healthy. Regular exercise not only keeps your beagle fit but also boosts their mental and emotional well-being. As a dog owner, you have a responsibility to provide your furry friend with the care they deserve, including adequate exercise. By following the tips above and providing your beagle with the necessary exercise, you can enjoy a long and healthy relationship with your beloved pet.