posted 11-23-2003 08:23 PM         

My husband and I got our beagle/pug mix at about 3 1/2 months, and it has been an interesting experience to say the least! Beagles are very energetic- they need lots of exercise and attention. In addition, they are working dogs and tend to play pretty rough with other dogs and people, and sometimes this can be misunderstood. I remember the first time we took Cameron to a dog play group- omigosh, she just took charge of all the other dogs, jumping and biting at them. To her that was the way she was used to playing- to the other dogs it was annoying and at times frightening. I'm proud to say though that with continued classes and exposure to other dogs she has gotten 110% better. She still plays on the rough side- this is almost to be expected of her breed, but she is much better at backing down and not being so aggressive in her play.

Anyway, let me assure you that 4 months is not too late for anything- she may be a challenge at first, I know our dog was and still is at times, but the more you socialize her to all types of people, places and animals, the better she/he will get. I would strongly suggest enrolling her in a puppy class to help teach her basic commands and socialize her with other puppies. With our puppy, Cameron,(now about 8 months) we have learned to accept her for who she is-- she still howls out of control sometimes, still jumps on us when she shouldn't, still plays too rough with other dogs, and still has accidents in our basement every so often, but she is also the sweetest little puppy I know, and has so much love to give us. I know she will eventually grow up to be a wonderful dog, and that is what you need to keep in mind when your little beagle is driving you nuts-but everything takes time.

posted 11-23-2003 09:04 PM         

I agree with what puggle has said. At 4 months old there is still plenty of time for everyone to form a meaningful bond. Also I'm sure the shelter is aware that you have kids right? They most likely have evaluated the dog and (they or the foster home) tested the dog around kids instead of sending a dog away blind. They are usually pretty good about this sort of thing and your adoption application will tell them a lot. But this is something you can discuss with them when you get the dog tomorrow.

Have your kids ever had a dog before? Equally as important is teaching the kids proper treatment of animals. I'm sure they know the basics but its also good to teach them about reading a dogs body language and proper interaction with the dog - especially a rescue dog, who at first, might not be at the comfort level with kids, or for that matter anyone. There is a website called Kids N Dogs: http://www.petnet.com.au/dogsnkids/index.html with some good articles - such as teaching kids not to approach a sleeping dog or eating dog etc. Another is Living Together with Kids and Dogs: http://www.meritpuppy.com/advice/livingtogetherkidsdogs.htm Safety Tips: http://www.cherishedmoments.com/safety-tips-for-kids-petlovers.htm
A lot depends on the individual dog and how he was previously raised & treated.

posted 11-23-2003 10:31 PM         

There is also a video for your kids called Dog Training For Children by Dr. Ian Dunbar
I am ordering it for my daughter in the hopes that she will have some fun learning how to handle the dogs. http://www.dogwise.com/Features/SubCatList.cfm?SubCat=KIDSTRAIN

there are other books and things on this page for kids too!