Nickname         : The Snoopy Dog

Breed Origins  : England ( 1400’s)

Breed usage      : Hunting Small Game - rabbit and hare

Dog Weight       : 18 - 30 Pounds

Dog Height        : 13 to 15 inches to the shoulder

History
Beagle originates from England and is a dog of medium size - it has short legs which affords it the title of the smallest of the Scent Hound Dogs. It is also referred to as the English Beagle. It was bred originally to hunt small game such as rabbits and hares. It’s origins can be dated back to the 1400’s and it is classified as one of the Hound Dog Group.
Beagle belongs to the collection of dogs referred to as Scent Hounds, which specialise in following the scent or the smell of its quarry. It wasn’t until the mid 1500’s that hounds began to be classified according to their purpose, i.e. sight hounds, scent hounds, etc. Scent Hounds have distinctive characteristics, features and traits which are perfect for their purpose. They have large noses which have deep, open nostrils and their lips are loose and moist, designed to pick up scent particles and follow the trail of an animal. Their ears are long which concentrates the scent on the nose. Their bodies are designed for endurance, an essential asset when following any scent trail. Hunting takes different forms and as man opts for hunting their quarry either on foot or on horseback the scent hounds have been selectively bred to produce small legs, to enable a man to easily follow on foot, or longer legs suited to keep up with a man on horseback. Most scent hounds were used in packs - making a loud, deep baying noise alerting hunters to their location. As a pet the Beagle is cheerful, alert, energetic, and loves to be part of the family. This dog has a special place in our affections as the character Snoopy is a Beagle in the famous Peanuts comic strip.
Beagle’s ancestors date back as far as the Greeks who were known to hunt with packs of dogs. The Romans were no doubt responsible for the spread of this type of breed throughout the realms of the Roman Empire. The history of England is long and colourful and is highly influenced by the French, and the French language. This occurred during events such as the Norman Invasion of 1066 and it will come as a revelation to many that the only spoken language of the famed English King, Richard the Lionheart, was in fact French. It is therefore no surprise that many French words have found their way into the basis of the English language - beagle being a prime example. Beagle is derived from “Begle” a French term meaning ‘gape throat’ referred to the animals tendency to bay making what has been described as the the bloodcurdling “beagle music”. The Beagles are a scent hunting dog, used by hunters on foot, and they are the perfect size for trailing and back trailing their normal quarry of rabbits and hares. Although famed for hunting in packs, of between 12 and 24 dogs, the Beagle’s size made it popular with commoners and poachers. The size of the Beagle varied through different strains which were dependent on the hunting terrain - the smaller Beagle Hound was suited to the open fields whereas the larger Beagle was better suited to the hills. The smallest strain of Beagle measured standing at just 10 inches high and could be carried in a saddle bag or even about the hunter’s person as the nickname “Pocket Beagle” implies. Their prowess as scent hounds have found the Beagle new employment in the modern day - they are used as ’sniffer’ dogs for drug and contraband detection. One of the most popular breeds of dog famous as the character Snoopy in the Peanuts comic strip.

All Information and Tips About This Dog :

• Coat and Colours information
  The Beagle’s coat comes in a range of the following colours: Tri-colour (white with large black and light brown spots) or Lemon & White. The coat is short, dense & weatherproof.

• Temperament and Character
  Beagle is a very adaptable breed, enjoying the company of other dogs and humans, they are loyal, playful, inquisitive, affectionate, gentle, and versatile. Although the Beagle was developed as an active hunting dog it is also makes a good house pet providing it is given lots of exercise and attention. It is, however, an independent and strong willed breed and may run off to follow a scent trail.

• Health information - potential health problems
  Resolving dog health problems, including those of the Beagle, can prove to be costly and it would be wise to consider the benefits of obtaining dog health insurance. Common health problems and questions occur in relation to the Bones, Joints, Muscles, Nerves, Ears, Eyes, Teeth and the Mouth. Other, more serious, issues can relate to the Digestive System, Heart & Respiratory Systems, Immune & Blood Systems, Reproduction and Urinary Systems. Potential health problems of the Beagle can include:
  • Hip and Elbow Dysplasia (abnormal development of joints referred to as CHD - Canine Hip and Elbow Dysplasia)
  • Glaucoma
  • The life expectancy for this particular breed is between 12 – 15 years.

• Living conditions and Exercise Requirements
  Beagle dogs and puppies requires a substantial amount of exercise. It is well suited to living in the country and even outdoors in kennels. It is a natural scent hound which will be inclined to follow and scent trails and can be difficult in getting them to return.