Beagle Dog

The Beagle dog has served the humanity for many centuries. The first Beagles date back to the 5th century BC. Like present-day Beagles, they hunted small game by scent and could be followed on foot. The Romans brought their Beagles to Britain and the breed was developed further by adding the blood of other hounds to the Roman dogs. The long extinct Talbot hound and the Greyhound contributed much to the modern looks and talents of the Beagle. Some Beagles were even bred to Scottish Terriers to add them agility and alertness.

Historically, Beagles hunted in large pack, because a single Beagle dog was not able to cope with a large prey, like a fox. Owning a pack of Beagles was a matter of prestige for the nobility and royalty of the medieval times. Glove and Pocket Beagles were especially popular. They accompanied large and quick sight hounds and chased the prey through the underbrush. Small Beagles stood only 8-9 inches at the withers and were unable to cross rough terrain. Hunters had to carry them to the hunt in their gloves and saddlebags. After the hunt, these little creatures entertained the guests and were favored lap dogs for the ladies.

The modern look of the Beagle dog was developed in the 19th century. Though Glove and Pocket Beagles lost their popularity and became extinct, there was a large variation in size within the breed. Since Beagles were used mostly for hunting, the majority of breeders selected the strongest dogs with a good nose. In the late 19th century, Beagle clubs were formed and the official standards were adopted. The AKC accepted the Beagle in 1884. In 1896, the UK Beagle Club was founded. In the UK, their native country, Beagles were and still are used for utilitarian purposes. Though hunting with dogs is banned in the UK, Beagles hunt rabbits considered pests and participate in drag hunting, which is a popular sport.

In the USA and Canada, Beagles have always been popular as show dogs. The AKC and the CKC recognize two size varieties of the Beagle (under 13 inches and between 13 and 15 inches at the withers,) while all British registries recognize a single type (from 13 to 16 inches at the withers.) A Pocket Beagle dog is not recognized by any registry.