Do beagles bark a lot?

Do beagles bark a lot?

Beagles have a reputation for being yappy dogs, but do beagles really bark a lot? In actuality – no, beagles aren’t noisier than the average dog breed. So how did this reputation come about? 

The question of beagles’ barking is one that often leads people to wonder – “Why Beagles Are The Worst Dogs?” However, we think beagles have been unfairly maligned, and it’s quite easy to control their barking with the proper training and routines. 

In this article, we’ll explore: 

By the end of this guide, you’ll know everything you need to know about a beagle’s bark and how to minimize it. 

How much do beagles bark? 

Beagles are known to be great watch dogs because they’re vigilant and protective. This can be a great trait if there’s an intruder in your home. You don’t want to get rid of this type of barking. 

However, if your beagle is barking at every possible noise, especially if you live by a noisy road or a busy intersection, this will quickly drive you nuts. 

Beagles also bark when they’re excited, perhaps when their owner comes home from a long day or they meet a new playmate at the dog park. On average, your beagle should not be barking constantly. With the proper training (more on that below), this can be easily achieved. 

Types of beagle barks 

1. The standard bark 

This is the most common sound you’ll hear – when there’s someone new at the door or you’ve just given your beagle a gift. 

2. Howl 

Beagles do howl, although not as much as many people think. This indicates the beagle is lonely or emotional, or is possibly in heat. 

3. Baying

Lastly is baying, which sounds like a mix between barking and howling. It’s sort of excited and forlorn at the same time, and usually is used to alert other dogs that a scent has been found. 

4. Yelp 

This is a short small bark, and it may indicate your beagle is injured or in pain. 

How to reduce beagle barking

1. Exercise 

Keep your beagle well exercised – this is not only good for their physical health, but it also wears them out so they don’t have excessive energy that they can then funnel into barking. 

2. Mental fitness

Make sure your dog is getting mental stimulation as well, so they aren’t just barking out of sheer boredom. It’s also good for their mental health and sharpness. Get them some puzzles to play with while you’re gone. 

3. Training 

Use a system of rewards to teach your beagle to stop barking. If they are barking excessively, put them in a crate or in a dog bed in a separate room, and when they quiet down, give them a treat. This teaches them to stop barking like mad.  

4. Don’t shout

First of all, this doesn’t work. Your beagle isn’t aware that you’re shouting at them, they probably think you’re having a chat with them instead. If anything, this will prompt them to keep barking at a louder volume. 

5. Bark collars

Bark collars are highly effective. They deliver static electricity that shocks your dog into stopping. Many owners are wary of hurting their dogs, but bark collars are usually a temporary measure and have an almost 100% rate of success. However, they should be used as a last resort as we ultimately don’t want to motivate our pets through fear. Check out our guide to beagle collars here, which includes humane anti bark devices that use vibrations and sound rather than shocks. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Can you train a beagle not to bark? 

Yes! You can train a beagle to stop barking using treats when they stop barking to reward them and teach them to stop. 

Are Beagles good house dogs? 

Yes, beagles are great indoor dogs that love affection and are great with families. Read more here. 

What is the quietest dog breed? 

Among the quietest dog breeds are: Pugs, Great Danes, Greyhounds, Basenjis, and Chinese Shar Peis. 

Can beagles be left alone?

Yes – usually for up to 6 hours. To learn more about leaving your beagle alone, check out our article here.

Do Beagles cuddle?

Yes, beagles love cuddling and are highly affectionate dogs. 

What is the only dog that can’t bark?

The basenji dog breed virtually can’t bark due to the shape of their larynx. Because of this, they’re colloquially known as the “barkless dog.” 

Does peanut butter stop dogs from barking?

Yes, peanut butter stops dogs from barking or howling because of its sticky nature. You try yelling with a mouth of peanut butter and you’ll see exactly why it’s so effective. 

Can you use a silent dog whistle to stop barking? 

Dog whistles are effective in basic training, learning tricks, and can even be used to stop barking if properly implemented. 

At what age can you use a vibrating collar on a puppy?

You shouldn’t use a vibrating collar on any puppy younger than 6 months. I personally don’t use them until my pup is at least 10 months old, but 6 months is the common benchmark. 

What triggers dog barking?

Dogs bark when they feel emotional, like they’re scared of an intruder or excited about a treat. They also bark to communicate with other dogs, and to express hunger or thirst. 

Recap: 

• Beagles do bark, although not more than the average dog breed. 
• With proper exercise, training, and rewards, beagles can be trained to stop barking excessively. 

Related articles: 

• Are beagles aggressive? 
• Why do beagles eat poop?
• Are beagles stubborn?

• Are beagles lazy?
• Can beagles swim?