Beagle

History

The Beagle-type of dog has been in existence for more than 2,000 years. It is thought to have existed in Britain before the Romans came to the island. The dog may have originated in Ancient Greece or France. History records beagles being used for hunting during the Crusades. The modern type of Beagle was developed in England during the 1830s through the crossing of a number of breeds that included the Talbot Hound, the North Country Beagle and the Southern Hound. Beagles were popular during Elizabethan times (1500s). The dogs were used primarily for hunting hares and rabbits, and they were popular because hunters could follow them on foot rather than with horses. The first Beagle was registered with the American Kennel Club in 1885.

Description

Beagles are small to medium-sized dogs and members of the Hound Group. They look like a smaller version of the Foxhound, with shorter legs and longer ears. The dogs have an excellent sense of smell and are used as scent hounds to track game. A sturdy dog, the Beagle has an intelligent expression and a short coat that is usually black and white, with some orange, red, or yellow patches. They have a square muzzle and a broad nose and eyes are typically brown or hazel.

Temperament

Beagles are friendly, warm, loyal and brave. They are playful and curious as well, which makes them good family pets. They enjoy human companionship and get along well with children and other dogs. Beagles do have an independent streak that sometimes makes them a challenge to train, but they are even-tempered and friendly overall. Their size and lack of inherited health problems make them popular companion animals.

Health and Care

Beagles are energetic, lively, and have a somewhat excitable personality. They need regular exercise, but care should be taken when outdoors, since the dog’s sense of smell can result in it wandering off to follow an interesting scent. It’s best to walk a Beagle on a leash or let the dog play in a fenced environment. Beagles have large appetites and have a tendency to become obese. They need a balanced diet, with the addition of carbohydrates if they are used for hunting. Clean water should be available at all times. Beagles are susceptible to congenital heart disease as well as obesity, so their diet should be monitored closely and they should be given lots of regular exercises. The dogs may also be at risk for spinal and skin problems and epilepsy.

Interesting Facts

The first mention of the dog by the name of Beagle in English literature was in 1475, according to the Oxford English Dictionary, but the origin of the name is not known. Beagles are used by the U.S. Department of Agriculture at customs inspection stations and airports to detect prohibited plants and other contraband secreted in luggage. Beagles are prized for their excellent sense of smell and non-intimidating size. Law enforcement also uses Beagles to detect accelerants in potential arson fires, and the dogs are sometimes used to detect termites in buildings.

Pets4You offers listings of Beagle breeders with puppies for sale.