Beagle dogs

Beagle Dogs

The Beagle is a breed of small hound that is similar in appearance to the much larger foxhound. The beagle is a scent hound, developed primarily for hunting hare (beagling). Possessing a great sense of smell and superior tracking instincts, the beagle is the primary breed used as detection dogs for prohibited agricultural imports and foodstuffs in quarantine around the world.

History

The origin of the beagle is not known, but their modern development was in England. In the 1830s, Reverend Phillip Honeywood established a beagle pack in Essex, which is believed to be the forebears of the modern breed. Some believe that the breed may have originated from Greece in the 5th century BC.

Characteristics

Beagles are known for their temperate, and gentle disposition. Due to their friendly nature, they are excellent with children and also get along well with other dogs. They are intelligent, but as a result of being bred for the long chase are single-minded and determined, which can make them hard to train.

Health

Beagles are generally healthy, but certain health problems can develop. Common conditions include epilepsy, allergies, and hip dysplasia. There is also some risk of certain types of cancer, and the breed can be prone to obesity.

In Popular Culture

Beagles have been featured in popular culture since Elizabethan times. More recently, the breed has been featured in film and TV, such as the iconic character Snoopy from the comic strip Peanuts.

See Also

• Dog breed
• Hound
• Scent hound
• Foxhound