Beagles are a small-sized hound dog originally developed for hunting rabbits or hare. History tells us Rev. Phillip Honeywood is responsible for the pack that created today’s Beagle. Sometime in the 1830s, he bred a pack of small Beagles that stood around 10 inches at the shoulder and were pure white in color. They were originally two different types, the smooth and rough coated varieties. It is thought that by the beginning of the 20th century, the rough-coated type had become extinct.
The Beagle first came to the United States sometime in the 1840s, imported strictly to be hunting dogs. Although this dog breed may have originated in the United Kingdom, it has always been much more popular throughout the United States and Canada. Beagles have consistently been one of the top 10 most popular breeds in the United States for over 30 years and continue to be a widely adored breed throughout the nation.
The temperament of the Beagle is similar to that of a playful child, as they are full of energy and enjoy nothing more than your love and attention. It is very important that you have other animals while owning a beagle based on their pack instincts and that you socialize your puppy with these animals at an early age. Beagles make exceptional family pets because of their general jovial nature and willingness to blend into the family pack.
Beagles are very adaptable dogs and fit into their pack well. If you teach a beagle to be used to their environment at a young age, they will become a valued member of the family.
Keep an eye on your landscaping if you own a Beagle, as they love to dig and make a mess of the yard, which is like all hounds. Because of their energy level, they are often not suitable for apartment living.
The Beagle is generally a healthy breed of canine. Like with all breeds of canines, it is important that you know the genetic background of the mother and father of the puppy.
Most genetic diseases or potential congenital defects can be eliminated by assuring the parents are healthy dogs. So the most common genetic issues known to beagles are dysplasia, cherry eye, epilepsy, and hypothyroidism.
Beagles are intelligent and highly trainable, recommended for an owner with at least moderate dog knowledge. Novice owners should not shy away from the Beagle, however, just be prepared to attend obedience classes with your new best friend.
Beagles have a smooth double coat that is quite dense and is very resistant to moisture. They will shed but their fur is very short, so it shouldn’t be overwhelming.
Make sure that you keep your beagle’s ears nice and clean because they have floppy ears they can be prone to infection if not properly kept clean. As with any breed of dog, tooth brushing and nail trimming are recommended on a regular basis.
Hound dogs might as well be considered a sporting breed because they have just as much energy. Daily exercise and an active lifestyle are a must for a beagle owner. Failure to meet a beagles necessary to a disobedient or potentially destructive companion.
Beagles usually stand 13 to 16 inches tall and weigh between 18 and 30 pounds.
The most notable designer mixed breed associated with the Beagle is the Puggle, which is a cross between the Beagle and a Pug.