The Beagle is a small breed of scent hound, similar in appearance to the much larger foxhound. The beagle was developed primarily for hunting rabbit or hare, known as beagling. Possessing a great sense of smell and superior tracking instincts, the beagle is the primary breed used as a detection dog for prohibited agricultural imports and foodstuffs in quarantine around the world. The beagle is a popular pet due to its size and amiable temperament.
Originally developed in the United Kingdom for hunting hare and rabbit in rural environments.
Beagles are known for their strong sense of smell and excellent tracking abilities, making them popular as detection dogs. They are social and friendly, making them great family pets. However, their strong scent drive means they require secure yards and leashes during walks.
The Southern Hound is thought to be an ancestor of the Beagle
Early images of the Beagle (clockwise from top left): 1833, 1835, Stonehenge's Medium (1859, reusing Youatt's 1852 "Beagle" image) and Dwarf Beagle (1859).
A uniform type for the breed developed at the start of the 20th century
The Kennel Club (UK) standard states the Beagle should give the impression of quality without coarseness.
Beagle hound colours: Two-coloured "tan and white" (older female with fading colour), tricoloured broken, two-coloured "red and white", "tricoloured"
Lemon Beagle
A Puggle, a Beagle/pug cross, shows traits from both breeds.
Beagles are happy to rest
Weight gain can be a problem in older or sedentary dogs, which in turn can lead to heart and joint problems.
The Caynsham Foot Beagles (c. 1885)
The Beagle has been used for rabbit-hunting since the earliest development of the breed.
Beagles have excellent noses; this dog is employed by the US Customs and Border Protection Agency.
Red & white Beagle
Tricolor Beagle
Trainability
Responsiveness to training: —/5