Beagle,also known as: English Beagle

The Beagle is a small hound bred for hunting rabbit and hare.

The Beagle is a small hound bred for hunting rabbit and hare. The head is somewhat lengthy and is domed at the occiput. Eyes are hazel or deep brown in color, large and set apart with a soft, “pleading” expression that is common to most hounds. The finely textured ears are long, low set and gently rounded at the tips. The medium-length muzzle is square and straight with a somewhat defined stop. The shoulders and chest are broad and muscular, without being bulky. The well-muscled back is short and the loin is wide and gently arched. The gaily carried tail is high-set with a light curve, and is rather short when compared to the Beagle’s size. Coloring can be any true hound color. The length of the coat is medium/close and the texture is coarse.

The Beagle is extremely friendly and gentle—traits that make fit very well in a family environment. Beagles are perfect for families with children, as they are tolerant, loving and playful. They can be kept in homes with other animals but must be socialized early because of their hunting instincts. The Beagle can live indoors but requires a fenced yard in which to roam in addition to a daily walk. The Beagle does not like to be left alone, so owners would be well advised to keep a companion animal with their Beagle, especially when away. It is important that a Beagle is walked on a leash in order to prevent it from running off in pursuit of intriguing scents. This breed responds well to obedience training if worked with regularly. Potential owners should also keep in mind that the Beagle was bred to have a strong, melodious bark/howl for hunting purposes—a characteristic that may potentially disturb neighbors.

Because the Beagle has shorter hair, it’s easy to groom. Simply brush regularly with a firm bristled brush and bathe with mild dog shampoo when needed. The ears do require a bit of maintenance and should be kept clean. If the ears become infected or show signs of ear mites, your vet can provide you with special treatment options. Also, make sure to keep the nails trimmed. The Beagle requires daily exercise in the form of either a free roam in an enclose area or a long walk. Major health concerns for the Beagle are intervertebral disk disease and canine hip dysplasia; minor concerns include glaucoma, epilepsy, CPRA, hypothyroidism, patellar luxation, chondrodysplasia, distichiasis and KCS.