Beagle
Origin: United Kingdom
AKC Group: Hound
Height: 13-15 inches (Male)
Weight: 20-25 pounds (9-11 kg) (Male)
Origin:
United Kingdom
Male height:
13-15 inches
Male weight:
20-25 pounds (9-11 kg)
Coat:
The coat is short, close and hard.
Colors:
Beagles come in typical hound colors, which include tricolor, black and tan, lemon and white, red and white, or orange and white.
History:
The Beagle is a distinctly British breed, dating as far back as the Celts. He has always hunted in packs and is prized for his ability to find and stick with a trail, working the quarry back to the hunter. In the time of King Henry VIII, Beagles were diminutive and so were carried to the field in hunters' sleeves or in saddlebags. The Beagle's small size, keen nose and charming personality have made him a perennially popular dog in the United States as well as his homeland, the United Kingdom.
Personality:
Attracted to the Beagle because he's so darned cute, people soon respond to his other endearing characteristics: his playfulness, his curious nature and his self-assuredness. The Beagle has a tail that never seems to stop wagging. With his outgoing, friendly nature, it's natural for him to want to stop and say hi to friends and strangers alike.
At home:
Beagles have a strong pack instinct and don't particularly like to be alone. They are noisy as well, and when upset or simply "in the mood," they like to use their voices. While that baying may make hunters' hearts sing, it doesn't always please family, friends or neighbors. Beagles are wanderers at heart and are less likely to return home than some other dogs if they escape, so keep your dog leashed and your yard secured.
Recommended activities:
Put your Beagle's extraordinary nose to use and give tracking a try. He is also a natural at field trials and hunting. Beagles are quick and agile as well, so agility or flyball might do the trick.
Exercise:
A hunter by nature, the Beagle is always up for an expedition. Exercise doesn't need to last for hours, but it should be interesting for him - meaning he's allowed to sniff whatever might catch his nose along the way. Jaunts can be through a farmer's fields, through the neighborhood or around a few city blocks - all are pleasing and can provide necessary exercise for a Beagle.
Feeding:
The Beagle never met a food group he didn't like. He has a talent for begging, which often leads to obesity, which in turn can lead to other health problems. You must keep a Beagle at the proper weight throughout his life and feed him a high-quality diet.
Training:
Taking advantage of the Beagle's perpetual interest in food can inspire and motivate him when it comes to training. He can be stubborn and easily distracted, but he will pay attention to and learn from you if you have something he really wants. He learns quickly, and once he's mastered basic manners training, he'll be ready to move on to more difficult tasks.
Compatibility:
Because Beagles are so pack oriented, they aren't "one-person" dogs. They'll love all members of the family, friends and visitors, too! Beagles take naturally to children, but it's still important to socialize your dog and make sure that children know how to properly handle him. The Beagle socializes well with other pets, especially other dogs and cats. However, due to his hunting background, you'll want to keep a careful eye out if you have small animals in the home, like rabbits.
Health:
The average life span of a Beagle is 12 to 14 years. Breed health concerns include epilepsy and heart disease. He can also suffer from back and other musculoskeletal problems.
Fun fact:
A Beagle was the inspiration for Charles Schulz's cartoon dog, Snoopy, who became popular around the world.
Grooming blurb:
The Beagle's short, hard coat is simple to keep clean, and he is compact to boot, so grooming is a breeze. Keep his ears and the looser skin around his eyes clean, and all you'll need to do is bathe him occasionally to keep him looking and smelling his best.
Disclaimer:
Copyright by T.F.H. Publications, Inc. This document has been published with the intent to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter within. While every reasonable precaution has been taken in preparation of this document, the author and publisher expressly disclaim responsibility for any errors, omissions, or adverse effects arising from the use or application of the information contained herein. The techniques and suggestions are used at the reader's discretion.
