<P> The typical longevity of beagles is 12--15 years, which is a common lifespan for dogs of their size . </P> <P> Beagles may be prone to epilepsy, but this can often be controlled with medication . Hypothyroidism and a number of types of dwarfism occur in beagles . Two conditions in particular are unique to the breed: "Funny Puppy", in which the puppy is slow to develop and eventually develops weak legs, a crooked back and although normally healthy, is prone to a range of illnesses; Hip dysplasia, common in Harriers and in some larger breeds, is rarely considered a problem in beagles . Beagles are considered a chondrodystrophic breed, meaning that they are prone to types of disk diseases . </P> <P> In rare cases, beagles may develop immune mediated polygenic arthritis (where the immune system attacks the joints) even at a young age . The symptoms can sometimes be relieved by steroid treatments . Another rare disease in the breed is neonatal cerebellar cortical degeneration . Affected puppies are slow, have lower co-ordination, fall more often and don't have a normal gait . It has an estimated carrier rate of 5% and affected rate of 0.1% . A genetic test is available . </P> <P> Their long floppy ears can mean that the inner ear does not receive a substantial air flow or that moist air becomes trapped, and this can lead to ear infections . Beagles may also be affected by a range of eye problems; two common ophthalmic conditions in beagles are glaucoma and corneal dystrophy . "Cherry eye", a prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid, and distichiasis, a condition in which eyelashes grow into the eye causing irritation, sometimes exist; both these conditions can be corrected with surgery . They can suffer from several types of retinal atrophy . Failure of the nasolacrimal drainage system can cause dry eye or leakage of tears onto the face . </P>

How old do beagles have to be to breed