The beagle breed is a member of the Hound group that has existed for over 2000 years. Its name might come from the old French word be’gueule, which means “gape throat,” referring to the characteristic bark that is musical and almost sounds like a little howl.
By the 14th century, hare hunting had become a popular sport in England.
At that time, these dogs were developed primarily for tracking hares, rabbits, and other small wild animals.
The modern breed was developed in Great Britain around the 1830s from several breeds, including the Talbot Hound, the North Country Beagle, the Southern Hound, and possibly the Harrier.
They were then first recognized by the American Kennel Club in the year1885.
They have a great sense of smell and tracking instinct that they were used to detect narcotics, other prohibited agricultural imports and foodstuffs around the world.
Traits and Behavior
Beagles are loving, independent and very happy dogs. Beagles have minds of their own. They are determined and watchful and require patient, firm training from their dog owners. The Beagle does not have a normal-sounding bark, but rather a loud bay cries that almost sounds like a short howl.
Dogs are generally very calm and are in no way aggressive with strangers. It is also not aggressive towards other dogs. These dogs are very child friendly so they are excellent for families with children.
One thing to consider is that this dog may have territorial behavior. Because of its hunting instincts, it should not be left alone with non-canine pets, unless socialized with cats and other household animals at a young age.
Pet Care and Diseases
The Beagle is generally healthy and not the kind of dog breed that carries hereditary health problems. Despite this, the dog can easily become overweight if its diet is not carefully monitored.
Some beagle dogs can be prone to epilepsy, heart disease, eye and back problems. Also prone to achondroplasia aka dwarfism (warped front legs, like a Basset’s).
These dogs require brushing to remove dead hair but not too often. Also, bathe only when it's needed.
Beagles can live outside in warm climates as long as they are provided with decent shelter to live and ample socialization.
Bred to hunt, the Beagle is always ready to hit the trail. The breed has the potential to become obese if it receives improper nutrition and inadequate exercise.
Daily exercise, preferably long walks or a jog, is always recommended.
Allow the Beagle to run off a leash, but only in a safe, enclosed area. If left unsupervised or inactivated, the dog may chew or scratch objects around the house and unleash more of its other annoying dog habits. The Beagle is not well suited for apartment life.
Appearance
Beagle is a medium-sized breed of dog that are generally 13 to 16 inches (33 and 41 cm) tall at the withers and weigh between 18 and 35 lb (8.2 and 16 kg) for males, while females appear slightly smaller than males on average, only about 33-38 cm tall and 9 to 10 kg.
The physical appearance of the Beagle resembles a miniature Foxhound, although the head is broader with a completely different expression. Also, the muzzle, as well as the legs, are shorter in proportion to the body.
Their large eyes are brown or hazel and are set well apart, having a “begging” look. Their pendant (hanging) ears are wide and long.
Their tails are usually raised, but don’t curl over the back. Beagles are widely known for their tricolor coat (black, white and tan), but they can come in any hound color including mixed red and white, yellow and white or orange and white.
General Information
This breed has an average lifespan of 12-15 years. The litter size is about 5-6 puppies. The Beagle is also known as the English Beagle. Snoopy, a fictional dog character in the long-running comic strip Peanuts, by Charles M. Schulz, is said to be the “world’s most famous beagle”.
Breed Club
Visit this dog club website dedicated to Beagles. Click this link: http://www.thebeagleclub.org/
FAQ
Is a Beagle a good choice for a first-time dog owner?
If you're looking for a pet that will love you unconditionally, then the answer is yes! A Beagle is one of the best breeds for new owners because they are very loyal and loving. They make great family companions and are easy to train.
They are intelligent, active and energetic dogs who do need plenty of daily exercise, so bear this in mind. They are also good watchdogs and excellent hunters.
Are Beagle dogs hypoallergenic?
No, Beagles are not hypoallergenic.
Are Beagles good with cats?
Yes, Beagles are good with cats if they are raised together from a young age.