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Dogs - Beagle Breed
History Although the beagle's origin is uncertain, records of
its ancestry point to ancient Greece and France. During the reigns
of Edward II and Henry VII, the hounds quickly became popular with the
British monarchy. As fox hunting became increasingly popular in Great
Britain, the beagle's existence was threatened. Had it not been for the
farmers and small landowners of southern England, Ireland and Wales,
beagles may have become extinct in favor of the larger foxhound.
American breeders began developing beagles that would fit American needs.
The English variety of hound had been trained to track foxes and was bred
to an average height of 15 to 17 inches at the shoulder. The smaller
American beagle was bred for rabbit hunting.
Temperament This energetic little hound is very alert,
active and even tempered. The beagle is very outgoing, and is constantly
in need of companionship. This dates back to it's being bred as a
pack dog. If that companionship doesn't come from other dogs, the beagle
will demand it from its owner. It is important that the owner establish
himself as "pack leader" and set the rules, or the beagle will find
numerous opportunities to run the household. Beagles are usually not
aggressive toward other dogs, but they will protect their territory by
growling or posturing when appropriate. It is not uncommon for the beagle
to play with intruders once they are not regarded as threats. They
should, however, been given a lot of time outdoors because of their desire
to hunt. If not given that opportunity, they will find other ways, often
destructive, to entertain themselves.
Lifestyle The beagle bonds to everybody, especially
children. However, just as with any other breed, beagles need to be
properly socialized and shouldn't be left alone with young children.
Beagles play very rambunctiously and can accidentally inflict injury on
youngsters. They especially like to play with their mouths by grabbing at
things and chewing. The Beagle's ears are long and floppy, which can
trap warm moist air or prevent air from reaching the ear canals. This
condition can be successfully treated with regular cleaning daily and
sometimes medication for major cases. Careless bathing can get water into
their ears, potentially causing ear infections. Beagles are also
prone to seizures/epilepsy. This disease is treatable with
medication.Beagles have a tendency to roam. Therefore they should be
properly fenced when left alone. Unfortunately, beagles are targets
for thieves because they make such good hunters and pets, or they can be
sold to research laboratories. Sadly, beagles are one of
the top experimental animals, ironically because of the very qualities
that make them such good pets: friendliness, gentleness and eagerness to
please. Active, healthy beagles will eat themselves to death if given the
chance. Obesity can be a problem, especially in middle age when the dog
starts to slow down and doesn't exercise regularly. Beagles live longer
than many of the large breeds. The average life span is about 14 years,
although 17 years is not unusual.
Top resource sites about the Beagle
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Beagle Club UK,The - premier UK club for Beagles
Founded in 1890, The Beagle Club is the premier UK club for Beagle enthusiasts.
Dogs - Pictures, Breeders, Puppies, Rescue, Photos
Dogs pictures. Pictures of DOGS has great Dog pictures! New dog pictures added periodically! DOG pictures of interesting dogs. www.gotdogsonline.com...
National Beagle Club of America
Official home of organized beagling and basseting in the US. Includes directory of recognized beagle packs and calendar of events plus officer and...
Show Beagle Resource Center
Assisting Beagle exhibitors interested in showing their hounds.
American Kennel Club - Beagle
Beagle Breed Standard Hound Group Head The skull should be fairly long, slightly domed at occiput, with cranium broad and full.
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