Should I get my beagle a playmate?

I have two basset hounds, which differ from beagles in that I can catch a basset hound when it runs. I've found it is much easier to keep two dogs than one - and I've lived with at least two in my home for about 18 years. If she's that fearful, a puppy would be the best because its less threatening, playful, friendlier and smaller - but then you're looking at all of the housebreaking/puppy issues. If you get an older dog, they most likely will go through a testing period for domination, which is hard to watch - but they will eventually settle things between them.

I went with a full grown dog because I'm nearing my 50s and don't think I can go through house training and chewing thing anymore. I found a wonderful dog as a companion for my older basset, but they still once in a while have some differences of opinions, which they settle now very quick. Hope this helps.

I would say no to getting HER a playmate. The only reason to get another dog, would be to get one for yourself. After all, you will be responsible for the new pup, not your other dog.

You are right, a second dog is twice the cost, but it is also twice the work.

What I would do is get interested in things beagles like to do and work on her anxiety at the same time. Agility, Obedience and Flyball are all great confidence builders. Agility is by far my favourite for giving a timid pup a boost of confidence.

Is there a club nearby that does tracking or search and rescue training? You don't have to be serious about S&R to bring your dog out, let her use her nose and have a good time!

The other thing I would look at is your exercise routine. Is she being exercised before you leave her in the morning so that she is too tired to be anxious all day?

You may be finding her to be a challenge, because all of her pent up energy becomes nervous energy that has no where to go. If you can find constructive ways to release the energy and really build her confidence up, you will find she will become a new dog. Dog sports also help solidify the bond and trust between dog and owner.

Beagles are pretty hardy so I don't think a lab playmate should be a problem. I must warn you though that beagles have very high strung hunting instincts and need a lot of exercise. They also have a tendency to wander off in search of a scent's source.

You can get your beagle a playmate without spending money on doggie daycare or acquiring a new dog. Beagles, while they can be incredibly happy to just sleep on a sofa all day, are active dogs when they are out. She really does need evening walks--she might not need to walk fast, but she does need to sniff a lot to keep her mind active. This will also get her used to her surroundings and help build her trust with you. She needs to know she is perfectly safe when she is next to you. I have a similar situation with a Bloodhound I just rescued, and the walks are really helping her relax and not be so terrified of everything.

Once she is ready, you might want to find some friends who have mellow dogs that she can have play dates with on weekends or after work. The only way for her to build up her confidence is to be exposed gently back into world. She may never completely get over being timid--Beagles have long memories--one of the reasons they are so challenging.

You may also want to consider crate training. A crate provides a safe stable den for your dog, where she knows she can go to be safe when she is feeling nervous. My beagle liked to have her crate covered with blankets so she had privacy. Never use a crate for punishment and do not bother the dog while she is in the crate--that is her little private space.

For the weight issue--this is really common with Beagles because they will devour anything that smells remotely good to them--including garbage and feces. It is very important to only feed her a measured portion of dog food and occasionally a small dog treat. I fed my Beagle half a cup of good quality organic dog food once in the morning and another half cup in the evening. This helps them digest. Also, consider buying her large dog kibble--it will help her slow down her eating which will also help her lose weight.

Kudos for rescuing a dog. Beagles are a lot of work and there aren't many people who are up to that challenge. I wish you both much luck and happiness together.

I think chances are you'd end up with two lonely, bored and potentially noisy and destructive dogs, instead of one. It's a fact that Beagles, being a pack animal, often don't do well left alone for long period of time. Perhaps even a cat might help her in terms of companionship, but that depends on how she's likely to be with cats. I'd suggest you find a local dog creche to take her to during the working day.

You're right about beagles being social- they are pack animals and they are uncomfortable when their "pack" (which in this case is just you) isn't around.

Personally I think it would be beneficial to have another dog around- My beagle loves to play with a Jack Russell terrier that lives two floors below us. But whether or not you can afford/handle it, is really up to you. Don't get another dog if you don't feel confident that you can handle two dogs.

Have you looked into doggie daycares? I have no experience with them so I have no idea how much they cost, but that might be a solution?

If you don't think you can afford it, you shouldn't get another dog. Also, some people seem to think that when two dogs are left home all day together, they play. For the most part, they don't. They sleep.

I say find a doggy daycare.