History
History states that packs of hounds hunted with the Greeks at least as long ago as 400 BC, Hounds reached England certainly by Roman times. It wasn’t until 1550 that hounds began to be classified according to their purpose, i.e. sight hounds, scent hounds, etc. It is England, which is the country of origin of the modern Beagle.
Description
A sturdy, compactly-built hound, conveying the impression of quality without coarseness.
Grooming and Physical Needs
- Grooming Needs: Easy to keep, as the only grooming it takes is a quick, daily brush to remove dead and loose hairs.
- Coat Type: Short, dense and weatherproof.
- Moulting: Moderate.
- Exercise Needs: Need a great deal of exercise. One way of keeping your dog well exercised would be to let it utilise its natural hunting talents. They love going on walks, but always on a lead. You cannot trust a Beagle to come back if given the opportunity to run free with many smells around.
- Average Life Span: 12 – 15 years.
Behaviour
- Family: Great with children, breed must be exercised extensively and is probably not a wise choice for the city dweller.
- Temperament: Amicable and alert, showing no aggression or timidity.
- Trainability: Training must begin early or the beagle can get out of hand. Beagles do like to please their masters but must clearly be shown what is required and the owner must be firm and consistent.
- Sociability (Other Pets): Low tendency to get along with other dogs or pets in the home.
- Barking: High tendency.
Talents
Natural hunting talents and Field dog trials.
Notes
Garden walls must be high, at least 6 feet and secure as once on a scent, a Beagle does not return voluntarily. They are excellent escapologists and will attempt to dig their way out of any confinement.