Beagles are generally a healthy
breed
Beagles often live for 12 to 15 years,
but they do have a few common health
problems including ear issues,
distichiasis and obesity.
Floppy ears
The Beagle's ears
are long and floppy, which can trap
warm moist air or prevent air from
reaching the ear canals. This condition
can be successfully treated with
regular cleaning daily and sometimes
medication for major cases. A good
preventative measure is a diet
consisting of lamb and rice dog food.
Careless bathing can get water into
their ears, potentially causing ear
infections.
Distichiasis
Sometimes their
eyelashes grow into the eye and
irritate the eye, also known as
distichiasis; this might require
surgery to remove the eyelashes.
Obesity
A common health problem
due to people overfeeding them in
response to their playful and gentle
behavior. Most will overeat if given
the chance. A healthy Beagle should
have some definition to its waist and
have an hourglass appearance when
viewed from above. You should be able
to feel their ribs. Excessive weight
can lead to problems such as hip
dysplasia and heart trouble. They need
exercise and a good diet.
Heart Disease
Some Beagles are
prone to congenital heart
disease.
Polyarthritis
In some rare
cases the breed may develop
polyarthritis (where the immune system
attacks the joints) even at a young
age. This can be sometimes treated
effectively with cortisone.
Other conditions
They are also
prone to seizures and epilepsy. This
disease is treatable with medication.
Some Beagles, like most dogs, are prone
to various forms of cancer, such as
Lymphoma.