Description: This is Gudis, a most unusual Beagle. Why do I say unusual? Well, he doesn't ACT like a Beagle. Ok, ok, I admit it, I'm not a great lover of the breed. I find that they are a little too hyper and vocal for my taste. But Gudis obviously never read the Beagle Manual. He is neither hyper nor vocal. I mean, he's like totally awesome! (um, that was my Valley Girl imitation) Here's the scoop on how Gudis came to us. We got a phone call from Mary Beth, the administrator of Seminole County Animal Control. She had a severe overflow of pets, was facing putting several to sleep, would we please come save some???? Ah, what the heck, why not? We're optimists by nature! We got there and Mary Beth trotted out a Shih Tzu, Maltese, Chihuahua, Lhasa Apso,... Then Mary Beth looked at us hopefully and asked, "Would you take a Beagle?" -- she knows their reputation too. Well, in for a penny, in for a pound! But then out came Gudis, slowly walking, head down, sorrowful eyes. I couldn't help but wonder if he thought he was taking the last long walk.... We loaded all the other dogs into crates but didn't have one for Gudis. Jan said, "He can sit next to me." Into the van he jumped. Once we started going, he gave Jan a hopeful look, put his front paws up on her lap, looked out the window, and started wagging his tail!!! Oh my! He has a bit of a cold, causing him to cough (it isn't heartworms, just a cold) but I had to shoot the video anyway so you could see his demeanor. Once he is well rested and over his cold, I know he'll be the best Beagle in the world!!!
Foster Update 7/12/08 We've only had Gudis for one day and already I'm in love! He is such a sweet dog. he is playful, yet very calm. Even my husband who is not a fan of the breed loves him too. He listens to you and will walk alongside you even without a leash. He has been sleeping a lot because of his cold, but hopefully he will be better soon. Anyone would be lucky to have this adorable dog!
Foster Update 7/13/08 Gudis is getting over his cold nicely, and you can see more of his happiness shining through. We've discovered that:
-Gudis is very well potty trained. He's had NO accidents in the house.
-He goes into his crate with just a voice command and is very comfortable there.
-Gudis comes when called the first time. He walks on the leash well and isn't too much of a puller. He can more or less be led by voice.
Gudis has been a wonderful guest in our home, and he's going to make a great companion for someone.
How much do you know about Beagles? According to www.dogbreedinfo.com, the Beagle is one of the most popular scent hounds because of his energy, willingness, and merry, sweet disposition. The breed probably originated as a cross between the Harrier and other hounds in England. The Beagle has been used in packs, alone, and in pairs, for hunting hare, pheasant and quail. He has also served as an excellent narcotics detection dog and makes a fine family companion. The Beagle is a gentle, sweet, lively and curious dog that just loves everyone! A happy little tail-wagger! Sociable, brave and intelligent. Calm and loving. Excellent with children and generally good with other dogs, but should not be trusted with non-canine pets, unless they are socialized with cats and other household animals when they are young. Beagles have minds of their own. They are determined and watchful and require patient, firm training. This breed doesn't like being left alone. Consider buying two if you will be gone a lot. A Beagle has a loud baying cry that was a delight to hunting horsemen, but can be disturbing to family and neighbors. Beagles have a tendency to follow their own noses. They may take off on their own exploration if let off their leash in an unfenced area. Energ
Other Pictures of Gudis the Beagle (click to see larger version):