If you want to know all about Beagles, this blog post is for you! We’ll discuss the Beagle breed’s history, popularity, names, appearance, smell, and all the other aspects that make the Beagle unique.
What is a Beagle?
The Beagle breed is a small scent hound that looks comparable to the Foxhound. Beagles have a smooth, dense double coat that gets heavier in winter. However, Beagles also shed moderately throughout the year. Beagles are smart. It is a popular companion choice due to its size, pleasant disposition and lack of genetic health issues. The modern breed was formed in England in the 1830s by combining several breeds, notably the Talbot Hound, North Country Beagle, Southern Hound and possibly the Harrier, to become the hunting beagle. Beagles have been in popular culture since the Elizabethan era when they were mentioned in literature and art. They’ve recently appeared in movies, TV shows, and comic books.
History of the Beagle Breed
Although the exact origin of the beagle breed is unknown, it is generally believed that the beagle was developed to hunt hares and is known as the terrier. It is believed that the St Hubert and Talbot Hound was introduced to England in the 11th century by William the Conqueror. In the UK, the aforementioned strains were crossed with greyhounds to give those deer hunting speed and stamina. Although smaller and slower, they are similar to the Harrier and the extinct Southern Hound. The modern beagle is the most commonly used dog breed because of its excellent sense of smell and excellent tracking ability, and serves as a detection dog for agricultural and quarantine foods that are prohibited from being imported worldwide. Queen Elizabeth I is said to have a dog called the Pocket Beagle, which was 8 to 9 inches (20 to 23 cm) tall. Queen Elizabeth I called her dog her “singing terrier,” and she often entertained guests at the royal table, letting them frolic on plates and glasses (how disgusting).
Own a beagle
Owning a beagle is something that requires total dedication. At first glance, their cute, small appearance attracts many families to adopt beagle breeders near me. However, they can be a difficult breed and require constant attention to ensure they are well trained and kept out of mischief. If you are considering a beagle, there are a few things you need to consider to develop a pleasant relationship with your beagle.
Walk
They need to walk twice a day. They love to sniff and follow scents. Letting your beagle smell it will help stimulate them and help them tire out. Don’t keep pulling your beagle out of the scent; that’s what they’re bred for, and ingrained.
Go without a belt
Depending on the beagle, you may not be able to get them off the leash. With training, you can teach your beagle the return command. However, there’s always a chance they’ll get a scent that’s better for them and decide it’s more fun than coming back to you! But, again, it’s part of their nature, so you need to be prepared. Of all the terriers I love living with me, I have yet to train one to walk. Their curiosity and sense of smell are too distracting for them. So if you want a dog that won’t tether to you, maybe a beagle isn’t for you.
Food
Beagles love to eat! They are probably one of the most voracious dog breeds. They’ll sniff out the tiniest crumb, pounce on unattended dishes, try to get into the cupboard fridge, and even steal ice cream from babies! With this in mind, you need to make sure you are constantly aware that your beagle is looking for food opportunities. Don’t let them eat whatever they want; otherwise, your dog will gain weight and lead to further health problems.
Beagle Energy Level
Beagles are high-energy dogs. They are bred to hunt and track rabbits and hares with plenty of stamina and energy. They need to be active and social in order to stay happy and healthy throughout their lives. You can help them burn off some of their internal energy by hunting them as working dogs, exercising regularly, following scents, playing tug of war, running off lead (with proper recall training), or playing games. Beagles must have daily walks. Beagles are one of the most active dog breeds, so they need space and time to use up all their energy. Plus, the Beagle is a high-energy dog that needs a lot of mental and physical stimulation!
Are Beagles suitable for first-time dog owners?
Anyone who wants to own a dog for the first time needs to take full responsibility for owning a dog. First-time dog owners should research the breed they are interested in to see if it fits the lifestyle they want. A dog should be integrated into your life and become part of the family. Beagles can be challenging, with special quirks every owner should know. However, as long as you’re prepared and do your research, including talking to national associations and clubs, beagles may be good for first-time dog owners.
