Contents
Guide
Publisher: Mike Sanders
Associate Publisher: Billy Fields
Acquisitions Editor: Jan Lynn
Development Editor: Rick Kughen
Designer: William Thomas
Compositor: Ayanna Lacey
Proofreader: Lisa Starnes
Indexer: Brad Herriman
PRODUCTION, LONDON
Digital Producer:Alex Valizadeh
Senior Digital Producer:Miguel Cunha
DIGITAL OPERATIONS, DELHI
Head of Digital Operations:Manjari Hooda
Producer:Rahul Kumar
Assistant Editor:Etika Kapil
Operations Assistant:Tauhid Nasir
First American Edition, 2017
Published in the United States by DK Publishing
6081 E. 82nd Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46250
Copyright 2017 Dorling Kindersley Limited
A Penguin Random House Company
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All rights reserved.
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Published in the United States by Dorling Kindersley Limited.
ISBN: 9781465457622
This digital edition published 2017
eISBN: 9781465464255
Note: This publication contains the opinions and ideas of its author(s). It is intended to provide helpful and informative material on the subject matter covered. It is sold with the understanding that the author(s) and publisher are not engaged in rendering professional services in the book. If the reader requires personal assistance or advice, a competent professional should be consulted. The author(s) and publisher specifically disclaim any responsibility for any liability, loss, or risk, personal or otherwise, which is incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use and application of any of the contents of this book.
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This book is dedicated to my friend and mentor, Liz Palika. Thank you so much for your friendship and inspiration over the 25 years weve known each other. Terry
Introduction
The happy-go-lucky Beagle has been one of the top 10 dog breeds in America for many yearsand with good reason. Their compact size, easy-care coat, excellent temperament, and devotion to their families make them ideal pets, especially for families with children. But they are also hounds, and this means Beagles are independent and determined, dedicated to following a scent wherever it takes them. With this in mind, they pose some challenges for the average owner. Super-smart and extremely active, your Beagle will keep you on your toes while providing you with years of fun.
Like any dog, Beagles need loving care, guidance, and discipline to grow into a well-behaved member of society. Thats where this book comes in. Whether youre just beginning to research breeders near you for available puppies or youve adopted a rescue Beagle, youre in for quite an adventure.
In This Book
Each chapter in this book covers a month of your Beagle puppys development. You learn what you can expect from your pup and how to deal with each stage of growth. Its easy to be overwhelmed by the challenges of raising a puppy, and we hope this book helps you through the first 12 months of this big adventure!
You learn what goes on at the breeders during your puppys first two months and how the care she provides affects your pups future. You also discover how to choose the right breeder and pick the perfect puppy for your family. Then, you read about how to prepare for his arrival. You also learn how to make him comfortable with his new family once you bring him home.
Further chapters explain the various aspects, month by month, of your puppys physical development, health care, nutritional needs, grooming, socialization, behavior, and training. Each chapter ends with a special section dedicated to building your friendship with your new Beagle puppy. After all, isnt that one of the most important things?
Although no two Beagle puppies mature at exactly the same rate, the process is the same. If your pup grows faster or slower, it doesnt necessarily mean something is wrong. Hell catch up or slow down and turn out wonderfully normal!
If you decide to adopt a rescued or adult Beagle, use this book as if you had purchased a puppy. By taking him through the same training and socialization steps while caring for his health and nutritional needs, youll build a strong bond and hell soon be a happy and secure member of the family.
The Extras
Throughout the book, we share additional information to help you raise your Beagle puppy. Heres what to look for:
DOG TALK
These sidebars offer definitions of words you might not know.
HAPPY PUPPY
Look here for ideas on raising a happy and content puppy.
TIPS AND TAILS
These sidebars share hints and helpful advice on dealing with the challenges of raising a puppy.
Acknowledgments
I couldnt raise a dog or write a book without assistance from countless helpers. Special thanks to my advisers, breeders Mike and Karen Kurtzner. Sincere thanks to Deb Eldredge, DVM, who offered valuable input and carefully reviewed every word. Also thank you to the many breeders, trainers, Beagle owners, and other experts who shared their knowledge and experience: Liz Palika, Lynn Bryan, Kevin Kjonnas of the Beagle Freedom Project, Myrtha Morgan and the Regal Beagle Meetup Group of San Diego, and Pat Schaap. Terry
The Littermate
Congratulations on selecting a Beagle to join your family! Youll have years of fun and adventure with this happy, little people-loving hound. We help you raise her through her first year so youll enjoy minimum problems and maximum success.