BREED PROFILE: BEAGLE

The loyal, courageous, affectionate, gentle, and loving Beagle is a wonderful family dog. They get along marvelously with children because they are very tolerant of the foibles of childhood and they're always ready for a good "romp". Bred to be a pack hunter, the Beagle needs plenty of human or dog companionship.

The Beagle is an independent dog that may run away, hot on the trail of a scent. It is important to keep them fenced in the yard and to train them early to listen to commands. The Beagle can be trained quite easily to respond to most of the basic dog commands. They love a good howling session every now and then, which can be bothersome to neighbours.

The Beagle is one of the oldest of the scent hounds, dating back to pre-Roman times. They can be found in writings as far back as Chaucer in the 14th century. Though the history of the Beagle is somewhat cloudy, it is believed that they originated in England or Wales. Beagles were used alone or in groups to hunt rabbit and hare, with the hunter walking close behind.

The name Beagle may have originated from the French word meaning "open throat", in reference to their baying. It may have come from the Celtic, old French, or old English word for small. By the 1800's Beagles were known to come in many different sizes. The pocket-sized variety were the most common, some of which were only 9 inches tall! The smaller Beagles were especially popular with ladies and elderly because they could keep up with these little Beagles as they tracked the hare.

The British Kennel Club first recognized the Beagle in 1873. He was the favourite of the huntsmen at the Court of Queen Elizabeth I. After the war, British imports formed the basis for the American line of Beagles. The Beagle found its way to France in the 1860's, where they became very popular. Some of the blood lines in England are very old, and are carefully guarded by breeders to this day.

Friendly, loyal, loving and playful are all qualities that make them excellent family pets. Homes with other dogs, pets and children can all welcome the Beagle as part of the family. They require minimal socialization and actually enjoy the companionship of other pets and their family. A very energetic breed, the beagle needs a home that will give them plenty of play time, exercise and regular walks. When outside they should be in a fenced in yard and a leash should be used for walks as they have a tendency to explore and follow scents. They make good watchdogs as they will let you know if someone is at the door by barking, but they are naturally friendly with strangers, so don't expect them to be good guard dogs.

Key Facts

Height: 33 - 40 cm (13 - 16 inches)
Weight: 9 - 14 kg (20 - 30 lb)
Life Span: 15 years

Temperament: The Beagle is alert, bold, active, eager and affectionate. Beagle's can be stubborn dogs, but have the intelligence to be trained, if done in a firm manner. They still have pack instincts and enjoy being socialised with other dogs or beagles for pack activities. Beagles make great family pets with their cheerful and gentle nature and tolerance of other pets and children.

Grooming: The coat of a Beagle is waterproof and is able to drip-dry easily and dirt can be sponged off with ease.

Exercise: Beagles need a considerable amount of exercise. They are not recommended for a flat or apartment home.

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