Because of his strong pack mentality the Beagle is prone to suffer from separation anxiety more than some other breeds. This problem can be heightened by the treatments he may have received before he came to live with you. Typically, puppies sold in pet stores are the products of puppy mills where they are separated from their mothers several weeks sooner than is natural and then confined without much interaction with human or other dogs.
Often, a dog adopted from a shelter has spent significant time in a small confined area with no company and sporadic incidents of hectic activity and long periods of boredom and loneliness. These experiences leave their mark on the dogs mentality and can cause him real problems adjusting to like in a normal household with normal schedules. The behavior he exhibits is often the manifestation of deep unhappiness and fear.
Dogs going through this will sometimes change their toilet habits and revert or slobber, whine and tremble. They may well bark and dig. Realize that when you leave he has no way to know if you're ever coming back. Remember that as you deal with the situation, but also keep in mind that he is a dog and human emotions don't translate to his situation.
For example, if you make a special effort at extra reassurance before you leave for work and then make a big deal of greeting him when you get home you have only reinforced his conviction that it is a problem for you to be away, a bad thing to be dreaded. Instead, keep comings and goings low key as though they're no big deal. Your dog learns quickly to read the signals that you're getting ready to leave. You change your clothes, brush your teeth or get out your coat or purse and he's a basket case.
You should work toward diffusing these situations by desensitizing him to the signals for departure. Get out the keys, put on you coat or pick up your purse and then simply sit back down. After a few minutes of ignoring his behavior put everything back and go back to what you were doing as though nothing had happened. After he's learned to stay calm for that drill, add a second step where you go through the steps as before and actually go out the door. After a few moments come back in and behave as though nothing was going on. Gradually add to the time you're outside the door.
One practice that can help with separation anxiety is to get your Beagle really tired before you go. Maybe take him with you on an hour long bike ride, he obviously isn't on the bike for this. Because they are naturally fit and active dogs it takes a good deal of exercise to tire a Beagle. If you can manage it this can be a big help. As with the digging and barking it helps to make sure he has plenty of toys and puzzles to help take his mind off his worries.
The treat dispensing toys can often engage a dog for long periods. Some owners leave a radio or TV on to keep the dog company. A good practice is to give him an item of clothing or a towel you've used recently to reassure him of your presence.
Don't punish destructive behavior that takes place while you're away. Remember that this dog is truly grieving for you and any attention that a behavior generates is good in his mind. For extreme cases your veterinarian can prescribe a sedative to help your Beagle with his separation anxiety. Use this as a last resort and don't try it without the advice of the vet no matter what your friends say and how often the offer to share their dogs' medications with you.
Beagles are great dogs with lots to give. Just remember who's boss and the two of you will get along wonderfully.
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than some other breeds. This problem can be heightened by the treatments he may have received before he came to live with you. Typically, puppies sold in pet stores are the products of puppy mills where they are separated from their mothers several weeks sooner than is natural and then confined without much interaction with human or other dogs. 
