The Beagle breed is without a doubt one of the most recognized and popular dog breeds in the world. It is the classic breed that makes the perfect family pet or hunting dog. However, it should be highly noted that the breed is considered somewhat independent. Due to this fact, the breed can sometimes be rather difficult to train. However, the Beagle is a natural hunting dog, which means that it is always going to be in search of a scent that it can follow. Sometimes this might put them in precarious situations.
The Origin And History Of The Breed
Most people really don’t realize just how old the Beagle breed is. It seems that the breed can be traced all the way back to the 1300s and there has even been some sign of Beagle as early as 5 BCE in Greece. The breed really is native to England and has been utilized for centuries in hunting and tracking smaller game. Due to the fact that the breed is so old there is very little documentation that discusses the breed’s origin.
The Appearance Of The Breed
When most people first look at the Beagle they are taken back by its uncanny resemblance to the Foxhound breed. In fact, the only major difference between the two breeds is that the Beagle is much smaller in stature. However, do not be fooled by this smaller stature because they are extremely lean and strong. Beagles come can be found in a variety of colors and markings, but the standard more classical colors usually consist of black and tan; black, red, and white; black, tan, and blue; black, tan, and white; blue, tan, and white; brown and white; brown, white, and tan; lemon and white, red and white; and tan and white.
Some other unusual patterns will consist of solid black; black and white; black, fawn, and white; black, tan, and redtick; blue and white; solid brown; red and black; red, black, and white; white; white, black, and tan. It is not at all uncommon to find beagles with ticked markings or other forms or marking. Seem less uncommon ones will include black marking, brown marking, spotted tan, or white marking.
The Breed’s Nature And Temperament
You learned above that Beagles are nature scent trackers, which sometimes can get them in trouble. As soon as they pick of the tiniest of scents they are going to go right after it seeking and tracking down the source of that scent. Because of this innate trait it is sometimes suggested to keep your Beagle on a leash when you are out for walks or jogs. In addition to this, you will want to make sure that the back yard is well closed off to prevent escapes. Along with this, the breed is extremely independent, which makes this trait hard to break. Despite all of this, the breed is immensely intelligent and all around happy.
The Size Of The Breed
The article mentioned earlier that Beagles are similar in appearance to Foxhounds, but they are smaller. The whole breed is a relatively small breed, as both males and females will only grow to be anywhere from thirteen to fifteen inches in height. The breed can weigh anywhere from eighteen to thirty pounds. However, it is still small stature that really makes them great hunting dogs. The small build allows them to get right to the ground and catch the scent of small game like rabbits.
The Overall Health Of The Breed
Beagles are overall happy and healthy dogs, but this doesn’t mean that they aren’t prone to some health conditions. The most common type of health problems that can be found in Beagles are dysplasia and hypothyroidism. They are also vulnerable to other health conditions like seizures, allergies, and intervertebral disc disease. If you are going to own a Beagle it will be pertinent to known these conditions and learn how to spot early warning signs. Regular checkups will also help.
Caring For The Breed
Due to the fact that Beagles are so independent it makes caring for them easier than ever. They don’t might being left on their own and sometimes cherish the solitude. Regular exercise, of course, is a must, but sometimes letting them out in the backyard is enough because they will go wild at every scent they catch.
