Group: The Beagle belongs to the hound/scenthound group.
Height: The average Beagle is 13 to 16 inches in height (33.02 to 40.64 cm).
Weight: The average Beagle weighs 17 to 30 pounds (7.71 to 13.6 kg).
Life Expectancy: The Beagle lives an average of 12 to 15 years.
Good with Kids? Yes
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Colors: The Beagle may be any of the hound colors, but tri-color (white, black and brown) is most common. Another color combination is white, yellow, orange, or red.
Physical Traits: The Beagle is small, tireless, and possesses a harmonious voice.
Hair Type: The Beagle's coat is short, sleek, may be hard or smooth, and weather-proof.
Nicknames: The Beagle may also be known as the 'English Beagle.' The word 'Beagle' is derived from either the Gaelic word ‘beag’, for ‘small’, or the French word ‘begueule’, for ‘open throat,’ which refers to the breed’s melodious bark.
Bred For: The Beagle was bred for hunting small game, especially rabbits. Tiny versions of the Beagle, which stood only about nine inches tall, were bred to be carried around in the hunter's pocket, or to be followed about while hunting by children or the elderly. Beagles have been around in America since early colonization, and are one of America's most popular pets. Today, Beagles are used for pack hunting a variety of game, such as wild boar, coyote, red deer, and foxes. Their keen sense of smell and excellent temper make them popular drug sniffing dogs.
Personality / Temperament: The Beagle is easy-going, good-natured, and gentle with children and other dogs. The Beagle can sometimes be stubborn, but if trained from a young age the Beagle is patient, loyal, courageous, obedient. This breed has a very lively, cheerful dispostion, making it a great companion for adults and children alike. The Beagle can also be described as affectionate, brave, sociable, merry, intelligent, and independent. Some Beagles may howl if left along, and some of these Beagles can howl very loud. The Beagle requires early socialization with other household pets, especially cats or other small non-canine pets, that they are intended to live with due to their keen prey instinct. Beagles were bred as pack dogs, therefore the Beagle thrives on companionship with humans and other pets, and they especially enjoy bonding with other Beagles. The Beagle is a very active breed, and is always ready to exercise or play.
Origination: The Beagle originated in Great Britain, and may be a cross between the Harrier and hounds of ancient England. The Beagle has been a popular English rabbit-hunting dog since the 1300's, and similar breeds may have existed as far back as 500 BC.
Maintenance / Special Needs: The Beagle sheds, and needs to have its coat brushed daily to get rid of dead hairs. Beagles need a lot of exercise to prevent obesity and digestive ailments. Your Beagle may have a tendency to wander off following a scent, so a close eye, leash, or fence is recommended when outdoors. Beagles also love chew and dig, so rawhide chews or other toys, and either training to discourage digging or a place to dig, are highly recommended. Since Beagles are independent at heart, they tend to do well with obedience training. The Beagle needs its ears cleaned regularly to prevent infection, and requires a bath with a damp cloth occasionally. Beagles can sometimes be susceptible to vertebral problems and hip dysplasia. Beagles can tolerate warm climates outdoors with sufficient shelter and companionship.
Identifying Traits: Some famous Beagles you may recognize are Snoopy, Disney’s Beagle Boys, and President Lyndon Johnson’s Beagles.
Ideal For: The Beagle is great for families, and makes a great pet for the elderly. Beagles can thrive in both the city (with plenty of exercise) or country, and do well in any climate. Beagles also get along well with other dogs, and cats if acquainted at a young age. The Beagle's fondness of the outdoors makes apartment life difficult, but manageable with appropriate ammenities, such as a dog park, plenty of exercise, and companionship.
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