About Beagles - Your Online Source for Information About Beagles
Everything You Need To Know About Beagles
The beagle is most certainly a breed that many dog enthusiasts certainly enjoy learning about. Beagles are of Old English hunting stock, when the mounted clans of huntsmen kept packs of both hounds for larger game such as deer, and smaller hounds for the more agile game such as rabbit. There is much uncertainty about beagles regarding the origin of the name. Just about everyone, including the American Kennel Club who recognized the breed standard in 1885, agrees that the name stems from the French be’geule. The name is a mystery, however, in the breeder circles, as some believe that it means open or long mouth, and others feel that it refers to the signature baying of this dog on a trail.
An interesting fact about beagles involves their instinct, an internal drive more vast than one could imagine, that pulls their noses down and turns their ears off. It is nearly impossible to call a beagle hound off of a scent. He will not, or rather can not, leave it until it has been completely exhausted. This most often means that the beagle himself is exhausted, thus the basis of the old term “pocket beagle.” This name signifies the trusty hounds’ rightful place riding along in the saddlebags of their horse bound masters after a long days hunt. The beagle was a much valued and esteemed companion during his 14th century rise, and the tradition of his honored existence thrives still today.
It is nearly impossible to resist the curious, deep expression of the beagle gaze. This extremely intelligent breed reserves the right to maintain his own identity, and tends to enjoy sticking to his regal roots. Often comical in everyday, ordinary circumstances, he makes as astute a lazy lap dog as he is a hunter. He needs ample exercise, preferably of the supervised sort, as the beagle is all about what’s on the other side of the fence. He will dig for days if needs be, and he won’t forget the scent that attracted him either. To discourage your beagle from revisiting a former hot spot, you will want to completely fill and pack the hole tightly, and then redirect your beagles attention whenever he approaches the area.
There are endless facts about beagles that must be learned, most of which reveal themselves as you venture into a relationship with one for yourself. They are every bit as rewarding as they are challenging, but you must determine your choice of pet based on what they need from you, not on what you want from them. Beagles that are to be left alone for long periods of time on a regular basis will benefit greatly from the companionship of another dog. They can learn to live with cats and other pets if they are introduced early enough. On the topic of his canine friend, however, it is best to only raise one puppy at a time, especially if you are a novice dog owner. Puppies will revert to pack like antics when they are together, and you run a greater risk of training difficulties when they gang up.