Breed of Dog: Beagle
The American Kennel Club describes a Beagle as “merry, loving, happy, easygoing and an excellent family dog”. Also, Beagles are bred to hunt in packs, so they tend to enjoy their owner’s company. Additionally, Beagles usually come in two sizes: a under 13 inch size , and a between 13 and 15 inch size. (American Kennel Club)
History of the Beagle
History Information Provided by the AKC:
The origins of the Beagle are a mystery. Some experts say the name Beagle comes from the Gaelic word “beag” which means (“little”), while others point to the French term for the sound hounds make while hunting: which is be’geule.
There were reports of small pack-hounds similar to Beagles being employed to hunt rabbit in England before the Roman legions arrived in 55 B.C. One English authority called the Beagle the “foothound of our country, indigenous to the soil”.
When Beagles arrived in America they quickly became popular with U.S. rabbit hunters . The AKC registered its first Beagle in 1885. To this day, people in woodsy areas still swear by the Beagles nose, voice, and enthusiastic approach to hunting. (American Kennel Club)
Coat Type
Beagles have a smooth, dense double coat that gets thicker in the winter and spring is when Beagles shed their winter coat . Yes, Beagles may not have hair like a Golden Retriever but that does not mean they do not shed.(American Kennel Club)
Energy Level
Beagles are usually active and energetic dogs. I remember Rascal and Sister would chase each other around the backyard for most of the day. Beagles are also escape artists, so an exercise area should have a fence at least five to six feet tall that extends underground several feet to prevent tunneling. When Sister was about I guess three or four she figure out how to open the dog pen gate with her nose. (American Kennel Club)
Extra Information
Beagles usually live 10 to 15 years . Rascal lived to 17 and Sister lived to 9.
Beagles typically weigh 20-30 pounds.
Beagles should not left by themselves.