The Beagle is not just a family dog but a hunting hound. And this little hunter has a lot to offer. Here are some of the most interesting Beagle facts and info that you’ll want to know about this breed.
Possibly Named For Its Size
No one knows for sure how the breed’s name came about. Many people believe that the name Beagle is derived from either the Old English word “begele,” the Celtic word “beag,” or the French word “begle.” Because all three terms mean “small,” and that accurately describes the size of the breed, it’s anyone’s guess which one of these if any influenced the name.
Pro Rabbit Hunter
The Beagle was developed in England to hunt rabbits, and more specifically the European hare. This helped give the breed an outstanding nose as rabbits actually leave behind very little scent. While they originally hunted in large packs, today single dogs are often used.
Rabbits will often retreat from threats in a large circle, returning to where they started. A Beagle hunting a rabbit will typically jump the rabbit, find its scent trail, and follow that trail. As it follows it will bark and howl pushing the rabbit to keep moving back towards the waiting hunter.
FC Wilcliffe Boogie
Many Beagles today can trace their bloodlines back to a dog famous in the early 1950s known as Field Champion Wilcliffe Boogie. He was a slow-trailing dog that would meticulously check and follow the exact scent trail of his quarry. This trait was highly desired at the time and he was therefore bred many times. He produced a large number of pups and this intensified the trait within the breed.
Two Sizes
There are two types of Beagles that are distinguished from each other by their size. The smaller variety is often called the Pocket Beagle, but also the Teacup or Mini Beagle. It’s stands 13 inches at the shoulder or less. The standard Beagle on the other hand is between 13 and 15 inches tall.
The Beagle Brigade
The Beagle’s sensitive nose is can be used for much more than finding game in the field. In fact, canine members of the USDA’S Beagle Brigade are used in international airports around the U.S. to help find prohibited plants and foods which have been illegally imported.
This is an important job that prevents potentially dangerous plant and animal diseases from getting into the country. The Beagle is also commonly employed by various law enforcement agencies to search out narcotics and can even be used to help detect the presence of termites and mold in buildings.
Allergy Sufferers Beware
This is not a dog for anyone who is sensitive or allergic to dog hair. The Beagle coat is short, hard, and well-known for causing allergy sufferers to sneeze. This is something worth thinking about before you decide to share your home with this breed.
The Beagle Bark
While it can make an excellent family pet, it is a hunting hound that was purposely bred to have a very loud and unique bark. And like all hounds, it also howls. For this reason, it may not be the right choice in apartments or areas where noise will cause problems with neighbors.
Benefits Of A Pack Mentality
The Beagle was bred to be a pack hunter and this influenced the character of the breed. It needed to both hunt and often live in extremely close quarters with a large number of other dogs without fighting. This history helped to make the Beagle of today a sociable breed. It gets along very well with other canines, and children, and is a friendly companion that loves to spend time with its pack of humans.
Less Frequent Exercise
While it’s considered an active small dog breed, the Beagle does not need vigorous exercise sessions every day. In fact, it’s usually content with just a few exercise sessions per week. This comes from the fact that the breed wasn’t meant to hunt each and every day. After a hunt or long walk with the pack, the Beagle was typically kenneled and left to rest up for several days afterward.
Keep That Leash On
When it comes time to take your Beagle for a walk, you should always do so with the leash on. That’s because if it comes across an animal’s scent trail it’s likely that your pet will want to follow it up. The breed is known for not always listening to commands when it’s hot on the trail, so for your pet’s safety always keep the leash on no matter how well-trained your pooch may be.
Standard For Well-Dressed Owners
One of the lesser-known Beagle facts is the official breed standard also includes clothing suggestions for the owner as well. For example, it states that both men and women should wear accessories such as a black velvet cap, black or green stockings, a white tie, and either dark brown or black shoes.
Start Shopping for Dog Supplies!
Ridgeback Dog Breeds
Almost all dogs have a coat that grows in one direction. However, there are a few special dog breeds that have a ridge that runs along their back and grows in the opposite direction to the rest of their coat. Here’s your guide to the ridgeback dog breeds. Thai...
Tibetan Dog Breeds
Tibet is the highest region on the planet, known for the world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest. However, among other wonders, it’s also where a handful of incredible dogs were developed. So here’s your guide to the Tibetan dog breeds and what you'll want to know...
The Top Pug-Like Dogs
The Pug is known for its flat and wrinkly face and small size. However, for those who like the appearance of the breed but prefer something a little bit different, there are a few other options. So here are some other Pug-like dogs that may be more your style. French...
Is A Beagle A Hunting Dog?
Is a Beagle a hunting dog? This may sound like a funny question to a hunter. And that’s because this breed has become such a popular family companion that many people are totally unaware of its hunting roots and abilities. A Hare Hunter There are records of small...
How Much Exercise Does An Akita Need?
If you love your Akita Inu, you’ll make sure it gets enough exercise to stay fit and healthy. But how much exercise does an Akita need? Read on to find out. Akita Exercise Basics In general, this breed needs a moderate amount of exercise on a regular basis. Ideally,...
What Does Akita Mean In Japanese?
The Akita is a large and extremely loyal dog from Japan. But what does Akita mean in Japanese? This is a question commonly asked by admirers and owners of the breed alike. And here’s the answer. Named For A Prefecture The Akita originated in northern Japan on the...
Akita Facts
The Akita is a powerful and loyal companion dog. It’s a breed that’s not only large but looks like a bear. Here are some more Akita facts and info you’ll want to know about this fascinating breed. A Japanese Export The Akita is a Japanese dog breed. It originated on...
Pug Facts
The Pug is easily one of the most popular small dog breeds in the world. And with its adorable wrinkled face, convenient size, and friendly personality it’s no wonder why. So here are some of the top Pug facts every admirer of the breed will want to know. From China...
Great Dane Facts
A canine the size of a pony, the Great Dane is one of the tallest dog breeds in the world. However that’s just the beginning, there are many more fascinating Great Dane facts that set this breed apart from all others. And here are some you're sure to find interesting....
Weimaraner Facts
The Weimaraner is a canine with a shimmering coat that was created as a hunting dog for the elite. And those aren’t the only special things about this breed. Here are some of the most interesting Weimaraner facts. Named For Its Place Of Origin The English name,...
West Highland White Terrier Facts
Today the West Highland White Terrier is a loving family pet. However, in the past, this white little dog was a dedicated vermin hunter. That’s not the only interesting thing about this breed, here are the top West Highland White Terrier facts you’ll want to know. A...
Chinese Shar-Pei Facts
Most often known for its wrinkles, the Chinese Shar-Pei also has a blue-black tongue and a very unique temperament. But that’s just the start; here are some of the most interesting Chinese Shar-Pei facts that help set this amazing breed apart! A Breed From Ancient...
Chow Chow Facts
The Chow Chow is a dog with a blue-black tongue and ancestry dating back to ancient times. But that’s just the start; here are some of the most interesting Chow Chow facts that help set this amazing breed apart! Resembles Both Bears And Lions The fluffy yet stout Chow...
Rhodesian Ridgeback Facts
A lion hunter with a unique coat, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a dog that’s athletic and naturally protective. But that’s just the start, here are some of the most interesting Rhodesian Ridgeback facts that help set this amazing breed apart! A Distinct Ridge The...
Border Collie Facts
Created to herd sheep, the Border Collie is a dog that’s not just agile but incredibly smart. And here are some of the most interesting Border Collie facts that help set this amazing breed apart. A Distinguishing Name The Border Collie gets its name from the fact that...
The Border Collie Guide
The Border Collie is considered by many to be one of the smartest dog breeds in the world. This top-level sheep herder has a serious work ethic and will do best in working environments or with families who can provide it with an abundance of activity. Quick Stats...
The Chow Chow Guide
A blue tongue and scowling expression are just two of the unique characteristics that set the Chow Chow apart. This ancient breed is low-energy, however, will require an owner with experience who can understand its temperament. Quick Stats Group: Non-Sporting Size:...
The Chinese Shar-Pei Guide
The Chinese Shar-Pei is one of the most unique looking of all breeds and at one time it was one of the rarest. This wrinkly dog has a purple tongue and long history in its native land. Quick Stats Group: Non-Sporting Size: Medium Height: 16-20 inches (41- 51cm.)...
The Irish Terrier Guide
The Irish Terrier is known for its glowing red coat and its fiery disposition. This breed makes an excellent companion that is also considered to be hypoallergenic. Quick Stats Group: Terrier Size: Medium Height: 18 inches (46 cm.) Weight: 25-27 pounds (11.3-12.3 kg.)...
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Guide
The Rhodesian Ridgeback was bred to take on African lions. It’s a hunter, companion, and guardian all rolled up into one and with a very unique feature: a ridge of hair on its back that grows in reverse. Quick Stats Group: Hound Size: Large Height: 24-27...