Origin
The history of the breed is mysterious as the one we know today did not develop until the nineteenth century. Greek documents from 400 BC and Beagle pictures depict dogs resembling the Beagle. English hunters took packs of these dogs to hunt rabbits, pheasants, quail and other small creatures. The root of the word “Beagle” is indeterminate. It is believed he may have been derived from the French word ‘BEGUEULE’, open mouth, the Old English word ‘beag’, meaning small, or the French term ‘beugler’. In medieval times, Beagle was the word used to refer to small breeds. The miniature Beagle, small enough to fit in a “pocket” or saddlebag, followed the pack when hunting. The large dogs were running behind the prey, then the small dogs continued in the undergrowth. Reverend Phillip Honeywood created a pack of Beagles in Essex in the 1830s, considered as the origin of the current breed. Thomas Johnson refined the race to make them both attractive and effective. Two strains were produced: hard and soft hairs. The hard coat Beagle existed until the early twentieth century, but the breed is now extinct. The current Beagle was recognized by the AKC in 1885.
Description
The Beagle is a little strong and sturdy dog that resembles a miniature Foxhound. It is a miniature Beagle. The body is square while the skull is fairly long and slightly domed. The breed standard for Beagles says “any color” is recognized. The best known color for Beagles, as on most Beagle pictures, is tricolor with a dark base (the area on the back), white legs, abdomen and stomach, as well as a dark spot on the head and around the butt. The second most common mixture of color is red and white with an Irish motif on the face, neck, legs and tail tip. Whatever their color, they normally have a white tip on the tail, easily visible in the tall grass while hunting. With the Bloodhound and the Basset Hound, the Beagle has one of the most developed smell sense among dogs. They detect ground smells much better than in air. Males are 14-16 inches (36-41 cm) tall and weigh 22 to 25 pounds (10-11 kg). Females are 13 to 15 inches (33-38 cm) tall and weigh 20 to 23 pounds (9-10 kg). There are two size classes, 13-15 inches (33-38 cm) and less than 15 inches (33 cm). Their life expectancy is about 12-15 years.
Temper
The Beagle has a sweet and gentle temperament. Considered a “joyful” breed, the miniature Beagle is pleasant and often neither aggressive nor shy, as on most Beagle pictures. They enjoy your company, and although they may be at first indifferent to strangers, they are easily conquered. They make poor guard dogs for this reason. Their tendency to bark or howl in front of strangers make them good watch dogs. Beagles are intelligent but also committed and determined, which can make them difficult to train. They can be difficult to recall once they have found a scent and are easily distracted by smells around them. They are not very good with obedience. Although dynamic and keen to please, they are easily bored or distracted. Beagles get along very well with young people and this is one of the reasons why they have become pets. They can get nervous if they are isolated. Not all Beagles howl, but they bark in abnormal circumstances and some will scream when they smell the scent of a potential prey. They usually co-exist well with other dogs.
Living conditions
A fenced lawn is a must with a running dog like the Beagle. Accepted Beagle pictures make it a wanderer, so if it escapes it should carry a microchip and identification plates. The young but miniature Beagle is full of vitality and need plenty of outdoor exercise. They love walks with their family, or better yet, a great race in a field to hunt rabbits. They love to run with you, but better wait for their 18 months. Sometimes older Beagles become lazy, happy to lay down all day. Since this is a breed prone to overweight, do not let this happen. Beagles live well in an apartment if they can often go outside. They are extremely dynamic inside and a small yard will be enough.
Care
The coat has short, smooth hairs and is not difficult to maintain. Use a stiff brush and wash him with a mild soap just when needed to maintain good miniature Beagle pictures. Dry clean it occasionally. Beagles have a smooth, thick double coat, which is impervious to rain. Beagles are losing their hair, but as these are short, it is not too visible. Their coats tend to become thicker in winter. They are clean.
