Beagle breeder in Ireland

cara1234

Hi everyone,

I'm interested in buying a beagle puppy and would like any info on breeders in Ireland. I'm aware of Eamon Murray, am waiting on him to get back to me so am just looking into who else is available.

First of all, please no guilt trips on rescuing a dog, my last 2 dogs were rescues and while I absolutely loved them to bits they had their share of behavioural and medical problems that needed a lot of work. Knowing their history and parentage and being able to socialise them properly would have helped immensely. My last dog passed away mid op treating a congenital problem. I have always wanted a beagle and would like the chance to train and socialise him myself.

OK so with that out of the way, anyone know a reputable breeder in Ireland? I have seen there are breeders in antrim but they are all show or hunting beagles with champions etc in their bloodlines (which doesn't matter to me as I'm just after a pet) and therefore cost 700-800 euro. On the other end is dodgey potential puppy farms that I don't want to support selling for 150-200. Is there any in betweens? I'm willing to pay up to 450.

Thanks in advance!

borderlinemeath

I don't personally know of any beagle breeders but if I were to choose between show and hunting lines - for beagles I'd choose show every time. They are not a dog for the faint hearted and the hunting lines will be far more active than the show dogs. And boy oh boy are beagles active! They need so much exercise and stimulation and tbh, they're a breed I would never let off the lead in an unenclosed area as they are so inclined to follow their noses, you could lose your dog in an instant. For all of the beagles I know, recall is scatty and nowhere near 100%, partly because training a hound, and in particular a scenthound, can be very difficult, they are so easily distracted and can be very stubborn.

On the plus side, they don't seem to have as many health issues as other breeds, that's not to say they're totally healthy but absolutely get away with a lot more than other breeds.

Mileyb7

I'm in the same boat so if anyone can guide me here it would be great.

relichd

I got my beagle about a year ago from this very nice man: http://www.fernsgpa.com/contacts/1-name
Not sure if he has regular litters but it sure is worth a call (phone number is on that page).

I would confirm that Beagles are very energetic, very inquisitive and very stubborn too. Fortunately, they are very food oriented so getting their attention is very often a matter of hinting at a treat

My own Beagle boy (15 months old now, named him Rory) is pretty obedient off the leash, recall works in about 99% of the time. The 1% he's preoccupied with exploring new smells around him or playing with other dogs from our neighbourhood but I just wait a little longer, wait for him to finish and he comes back on his own... BUT! I only started to trust him like that at his 14 months of age! Young beagles are easily distracted by sounds, smells.

The most important thing is not to give in when he tries the 'sad beagle eyes' on you because you won't allow him to do what he wants. Having said that, beagles are very, very smart and will try many things to get what they want. It is said that Beagle owners spend most of their time trying to out-smart their Beagles. It's true. For the most part.

They're lovely breed. Great around other dogs, small kids... Great, cuddly companions (when they're not snooping around or sweeping the floor trying to find something yummy!).