The ancestors of the beagle (figure A) may date back a thousand years, to ancient Greece, but the breed as we know it was developed in Britain more than a century ago. Foxhounds had long been the hunting dogs of choice for the English aristocracy, who traditionally hunted on horseback, but because the common folk needed smaller dogs that could be followed on foot, breeders began striving to downsize the larger foxhound. The resulting breed is a medium-sized (between 13 and 15 inches at the shoulder, weighing from 18 to 30 pounds) dog possessed of a keen sense of smell and a love of wandering and exploring. Before the 1950s beagles were considered to be strictly hunting dogs. During that decade and the '60s, however, their popularity began to skyrocket, and today, thanks largely to the breed's sweet personality, they have become one of America's most popular family dogs. Beagles need a moderate amount of exercise every day, so a home with a yard is ideal. They crave companionship, be it human or canine, and although they make wonderful companions, they aren't very effective as watchdogs. A beagle who has been well socialized and raised by a loving master will develop a loving, tolerant disposition. Beagles are energetic dogs, and that high energy level makes them a good choice for families with children (figure B). Other Characteristics - Long-lived
- Friendly
- Curious
- Intelligent
- Vocal
- Easily groomed
If you want to add a beagle to your family, keep in mind that beagles have often been overbred, so it's essential that you find an expert breeder who is committed to improving the breed.
RESOURCES :
Beagles (Complete Pet Owner's Mamual)
Model: 0812090179
Author: Lucia Vriends-Parent
Barrons Educational Series
December 1995
Barron's Educational Series, Inc.
Hauppauge, NY 11788
A New Owner's Guide to Beagles
Model: 079382785X
Author: David Arnold and Hazel Arnold
(1998)
To order this title from Amazon, click here.
TFH Publications
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