Beagle health: what owners should know

Beagles are usually sturdy, though the breed has some known predispositions. These include hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, intervertebral disc disease, a prolapsed third eyelid gland often called cherry eye, and ear infections linked to the ear shape. A rare inherited condition called Musladin-Lueke syndrome affects the skin and joints, and a DNA test for it exists. Responsible breeders commonly score hips, have eyes examined and test for the genetic conditions relevant to their lines.

Obesity is the most common preventable problem in the breed, and it worsens back and joint strain. Keeping your dog lean, limiting leaps from high furniture and checking ears weekly do more good than any supplement. Call your vet promptly if your Beagle has a seizure, shows sudden back pain or wobbly hind legs, shakes its head constantly, or develops a red swelling in the inner corner of an eye.