Beagle

The lineage of the Beagle extends into the annals of ancient Roman civilization, yet its contemporary evolution predominantly unfolded in England during the Elizabethan epoch. Originating as scent hounds, Beagles excelled in the pursuit of diminutive quarry, such as rabbits, their compact form and sharp olfactory senses rendering them ideal for pedestrian hunting assemblies. Their ancestry is thought to be linked to the Harrier and other early hounds used for similar purposes in medieval England. Harriers, being larger but similarly adept in tracking, likely influenced the Beagle's development, contributing to their shared aptitude for scent-based hunting. The Beagle's size and skill in tracking made them particularly favored for hare hunting, a sport known as beagling.

Across the ages, these canines were not merely esteemed for their hunting prowess but also evolved into cherished domestic allies. By the dawn of the 18th century, organized Beagle ensembles were formed, catapulting the breed's esteem to new heights across both noble and common echelons. As hunting with larger hounds, such as the Foxhound, became more prominent for chasing bigger game, the Beagle remained essential for smaller hunts, preserving its popularity and solidifying its role as both a working dog and companion. In modern times, the Basset Hound, another scent hound with a similar history, is often compared to the Beagle due to its excellent sense of smell and use in tracking small game, though Bassets are distinct for their short-legged stature.

Characterized by a sturdy and muscular body, the Beagle is a portrait of resilience and agility. Their expressive eyes, often described as having a 'begging' look, are brown or hazel and exude warmth and intelligence. With a smooth, dense double coat that provides ample protection from the elements, and an enduringly wagging tail, the Beagle is crafted perfectly for prolonged outdoor activities.

The Beagle is celebrated for its amiable and sociable nature. These dogs thrive on companionship, whether with humans or other pets. Their intelligence and loyalty are palpable, complemented by an exceptional adaptability that makes them as suitable for apartment living as they are for a country estate. As both pet and working dog, Beagles are exemplary, their nimble minds and congenial dispositions making them both joyous family members and diligent workers.

The beagle is used for hunting rabbits, pheasants, foxes, even bears. This is a good and loving companion dog. Good friend for kids and teens.

Interesting facts:

• Beagle has 225 million aromatic receptors. For example, people have only 5 million of them.
• Snoopy - a small doggie of the Beagle breed, is a character in a series of cartoons (in the Russian translation A trifle of puzataPeanots i). He is one of the most famous beagles in the popular culture of the United States.
• Beagles are the main breed of dog used in animal testing because of their small size, good behavior, general health and low complications pregnancy.
• The National Beagle Club was established in 1888.
• There are two types of beagle within the prescribed height: those who are below 33 cm, and those who are above 33 cm, but not more than 38 cm.
• The beagle is a hound used mainly for hunting rabbits and larger hares. .
• The beagle breed loves to hunt. This leads to a strong desire to dig and dig holes, which can be problematic for some homeowners and gardeners.
• This breed of dog does not drool, sheds little in the spring and autumn, and they have a minimal dog smell.

Did you know? A beagle is used at US airports to detect smuggling. Their learning ability and skills allow them to look for weapons, drugs and illegal food, without making passengers nervous as they could at the sight of a larger “police dog”.