Beagle
AKA: English Beagle
Description: The Beagle is a squarely-built small hound that looks like a small English Foxhound. It has a sleek tricolored short coat. Its skull is broad and slightly round, and the muzzle is squarely straight. Its ears are long and wide and its large round (hazel or brown) eyes appear to be pleading.
The Beagle’s feet are round and strong. The front legs are straight and the rear legs are muscular and bent at the stifles. It has a distinct howl when it’s on a hint. It also carries its tail rather gaily and never curl it over its back.
Dynamics: The Beagle is an ideal home pet as well as hunting companion. It is gentle, sweet, and lively. It is sociable, intelligent and lovable. It is also great with children. It is also generally good with other animals, but it should be watched when it’s with non-canine pets. Socialize it with cats and other household animals and they’ll be fine.
The Beagle generally requires firm and patient training. It is deeply intelligent and curious. As a scenthound, it has a tendency to follow its own nose. It has a loud baying cry that is useful when hunting but can be disturbing to neighbors. The Beagle also doesn’t like to be alone.
Breed Group: Scenthound, Hound
Weight: males 22-25 lbs (10-11 kg), females 20-23 lbs (9-10 kg)
Height: males 14-16 inches (36-41 cm), females 13-15 inches (33-38 cm)
Color: tricolor; any hound color; most common are black and tan, red and white, orange and white, or lemon and white
Country of Origin: The Beagle originated as a cross between the Harrier and other hounds in England.
Activities: The Beagle possesses great energy and stamina. It would be good for it to have plenty of exercises and a daily walk. Make sure to have a good leash on it to prevent it from slipping of to a scent it just smelled. The hound has been used in hunting hare, pheasant, and quail. It has also served as a narcotics detection dog. Unpleasantly, the Beagle has also been used for medical experiments.
Grooming: Grooming the Beagle is easy because its coat is short and smooth. Brush it with a firm bristle brush and bathe only when necessary. Clean the ears and check for infections. Keep its toenails trimmed.
Other Info: The Beagle has a life expectancy of about 12-15 years. A Beagle is prone to heart disease, epilepsy, eye and back problems. It is also possible to have chondroplasia or dwarfism. The Beagle can be raised in an apartment or home. They are very active and it would be good to take them outdoors.