Aroooo!

This cutie is Ace.

This weeks featured breed is none other than Beagles!

Beagles have got to be one of the most popular dogs around and for good reason! Who can resist this face?

Ace again because how cute is he?!

Breed Standard from the CKC

Origin: Great Britain
Height: For field trialling and conformation shows, Beagles are divided into two classes—13 in (33 cm) and under, or over 13 in (33 cm) but under 15 in (38 cm)
Weight: 18 to 30 lbs

Snoopy the beagle. (Appropriately named!)

Brief History of the Beagle:
The Beagle's origin is uncertain but it is believed that his ancestry dates back to 200 AD when he was bred to track small game by scent. Early development of the breed took place in Great Britain and was introduced in the United States in the 1870s. Previous to 1870, in the Southern United States, the then called Beagles resembled more of a straight-legged Basset or Dachshund. By this time, however, the first imports were brought in from England and breed type was established. In 1888, the National Beagle Club was formed and held its first trial.

The English variety of the Beagle was used to track fox and bred to an average height of about 15 to 17 inches while the American variety was bred smaller and used for rabbit hunting.

Little Bailey- woo woo wooing...

Breed Profile:

The Beagle is a wonderful family companion who is generally very good with children. He is a "pack animal" who requires companionship. If he cannot have companionship from other dogs, he will require it from his family. The breed is not one to bond with only one family member but rather, bonds to the entire family, especially children. He is bright, friendly, outgoing, inquisitive and active. He has a highly developed sense of smell and an independent nature and, therefore, may tend to roam. He is energetic, very alert and has incredible stamina so daily outdoor exercise is a must. Today, Beagles are seen in field trials, as well as the conformation ring, obedience competition, tracking, flyball, and agility.

The most common colours are tri-colour (black, tan and white) and tan and white (also called lemon and white or red and white), but they can be "any hound color". They always have white feet as well as a white tip on their tail which makes them easier to follow in the field.


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Shandi- no toy is too big for a beagle

We have plenty of Beagles at daycare and they are one of the best players. Most Beagles will play with just about any dog- regardless of age or size. We often call them the life of the party. They are happy, outgoing, and very busy. They also tend to be a little on the vocal side. :o) Although nothing is cuter than a baby beagle bay (bark) of happiness it can get old really quickly. Teaching them to be quiet on cue would be something that every beagle owner should work on.

Shandi again

They have have more energy than you'd expect for dog their size so it is important that they get regular walks, play, and socialising. Beagles are very food motivated and are quite smart- they love to learn, and excel at Obedience, Agility, and of course Tracking. Beagles are well known for their great noses and often have them where they shouldn't be. They have got to be one of the nosiest dogs around and like to investigate new things. They are a charming little dog, and love their people. The ones here are often found on our laps, or at our feet.

Izzy, enjoying a sun spot.

The Beagle makes a great family pet- they are a nice size, don't require much grooming (although they do shed!), and are just happy to spend time with the family. Typically they are great with kids, and love to do outdoor activity such as camping and hiking. They are not an outdoor dog, and do not have the type of fur that can withstand frigid temperatures. We call them sunseekers, as they tend to search out the sunpatches throughout the day, or cuddle up on the couch when it's cold.

The Beagle Club of British Columbia has some great information about Beagles in general and what to expect if you own one.

There are lots of things about the Beagle that make them wonderful, but personally, My favorite part of a beagle are their ears!