Years ago when I was still a kid, I sometimes wonder how people take good care of their Beagles. Despite the fact that Beagles are gentle and friendly dogs, I can't help it but wonder the way how Beagle owners keep their Beagles clean and healthy.

We are all aware that having a dog as an additional member of the family is fun and exciting. But having a dog is not just fun and excitement alone. Along with this fun and excitement is the responsibility of keeping these dogs healthy and happy. Of course you do not want a sickly and dirty dog, do you? One way of making your Beagles happy and maintaining their healthy condition is to care for them properly.

Ear care. Beagles have long large ears that slightly turn toward the cheeks. Because of this feature, Beagles are more likely to develop yeast infections if ear care is taken for granted. The ears should be cleaned at least once a week. Just choose from any of the various good ear cleaners available in the market. Put a few drops in a cotton ball and gently wipe the inside of the ear flap. Notice how much dirt is accumulated along the edges. Then gently clean the ear canal. Remember not to apply too much pressure in cleaning this part. Just always remember to keep your Beagle's ear dry. Air can not get in to circulate in a hound so make it a habit to check the ears regularly.

Teeth Care. Their teeth are still part of your dog so remember to care for them too. Their teeth should be cleaned once a day or every other day. Cleaning the teeth is easy if brushing was introduced to your dog when he was still a puppy, but if brushing is something new to your Beagle, start running your index finger in their mouth across their teeth. Be calm and gentle in doing this so that your dog will understand that this is not something to be scared of. Once your dog gets used in you putting your finger into his mouth, you can now start using a dog toothbrush with dog toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste when brushing your dog's teeth because dogs hate minty taste. Your dog might get scared and will never let you brush his teeth again. Using dog chew can also benefit your dog's teeth.

Bathing and brushing. Bathing your beagle at least once a month is enough to keep him clean. However, beagles do shed so brushing at least once a week is needed. Brush in the direction where the hair grows or simply, brush from head to tail.