Page 152 - The Complete Dog Breed Book Choose the Perfect Dog for You, New Edition (DK)

152 GUIDE T O BREED S

White tip to
tail (stern)

White blaze
Typical tan Well-defined on head
markings on face stop Pendant
Black nose ears with
rounded tips
Straight,
level topline
Short, dense,
tricolor coat

BEAGLE

ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR SCENT HOUNDS, THIS DOG IS ACTIVE, HAPPY-GO-LUCKY, AND AMIABLE AKC

Height range A sturdy, compact dog with a merry which may lead to behavioral problems.
13–16 in (33–40 cm)
disposition, the Beagle looks similar to an A typical scent hound, this dog is highly
Weight range English Foxhound (see p.158) in miniature. active and has a strong instinct for following
20–24 lb (9–11 kg)
The Beagle’s origins are unclear, but it a trail. Left alone in an inadequately fenced
Life span 13 years appears to have a long history, possibly yard or allowed to run off leash, a Beagle
Origin UK being developed from other English scent can disappear swiftly and stay away for hours.
hounds such as the Harrier (see p.150). In The breed has a loud bark and can be noisy,
England, from the 16th century onward, which may irritate neighbors if the barking
packs of small beagle-type hounds were kept becomes excessive. Fortunately, Beagles are
Other colors to hunt hare and rabbit, but it was not until relatively easy to train and do best with an
the 1870s that a standard for the modern owner who combines fondness with firmness
Beagle was recognized. Since then, the and clear leadership. This breed is good with
Variety of breed has remained remarkably popular, at children old enough to understand how to
colors first for hunting and now as a companion handle a dog but cannot be considered safe
dog. This versatile hound has also been used with small family pets.
by law enforcement agencies to sniff out In the United States, two sizes are
drugs, explosives, and other illegal items. recognized based on the height of the dog at
The Beagle’s friendly and tolerant nature the withers: those under 13 in (33 cm) and
makes it an excellent pet, provided it has those between 13 in (33 cm) and 15 in (38 cm).
plenty of company and exercise—it does
not easily tolerate long periods of solitude,

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