Dog Breeds From A To Z: Beagle
One of the most popular dog breeds in the US, the Beagle is an attractive, energetic dog that was originally used for hunting. These solidly built, medium-sized dog's are renowned for their happy nature and their love of human company.
The coat is short and is most commonly tri-color, although there are other variants. Lemon, red and white, black and tan, and orange are all acceptable colors.
The Beagle's history can be traced back to 16th century England, when they were commonly used as pack hunters for small game like rabbits and pheasant. The progenitor of the breed is said to be the Harrier, a much larger hunting dog.
The name of the breed is believed to have its origin in the French word, "be'guele", referencing the sound commonly made by hunting dogs.
The breed was first recognized by the AKC in 1885, but only reached widespread popularity in the mid 1900’s. These days they are one of the most popular breeds in the United States and around the world.
One of the reasons for the breed’s enduring popularity is their famously cheerful and gentle disposition. Beagles are happy, loving hounds who get along with everyone, and are particularly good with children. They are tolerant of other dogs, but around cats and small animals, the hunting instinct kicks in and they may decide to give chase. It is therefore important to socialize your Beagle with cats at an early age.
Like most other hound breeds, Beagles can be quite stubborn, making them a challenge to train. They are easily distracted by movements and especially by interesting smells. This also makes them an escape risk, so you will need a well secured yard or garden to keep a Beagle.
Beagles are a relatively healthy breed who can live up to 15 years. Common health problems for the breed include intervertebral disk disease, thyroid malfunctions and eye problems. Other, less serious, health issues are epilepsy, glaucoma, patellar luxation, chondrodysplasia, cherry eye and hypothyroidism.
The Beagle's short coat requires minimal grooming with a twice-weekly brush quite adequate to reduce shedding and keep the coat in good condition. Do however pay attention to keeping the ears clean and dry, as they are prone to bacterial and fungal ear infections.
If your Beagle regularly spends time outside, especially in open fields, you should check regularly for ticks and use a preventative, like Frontline.
As hunting dogs, Beagles love the great outdoors, provided they have human or canine company. They are not really suited to apartment living, but will tolerate it as long as they are exercised outdoors every day. Be warned though that an under-exercised Beagle will soon turn to destructive behaviors, like chewing and problem barking.
Beagles are companionable dogs who love being around people, so you should make every effort to involve them in family activities.
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