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Beagles are, perhaps, one of America's favorite
medium dog breeds. They make great pets, when given the right care.
But this is a breed with a rich, colorful history, and breeding that
gives this dog special care requirements.
Beagles are known for their face shape and coloring. Their long ears
sit on the front of the head, and are often pricked in the classic
Beagle look. They have brown eyes, which should look bright and
curious. The Beagle is typically tri-colored, a combination of white,
black, and tan. The tip of the Beagle's tail is white. They are a
shorthaired dog, and come in two sizes: thirteen inches and fifteen
inches at the shoulder.
The history of the Beagle dates back so far that historians have lost
the exact origins of the loveable breed. Records exist of dogs from
Roman times that appear to resemble the Beagle in form and function.
The breed increased in popularity during the reign of England's King
Henry VII. He and his daughter Elizabeth I. These two monarchs made
hunting the popular mode of entertainment among England's upper class.
Beagles made the ideal pack of hunting dogs. Their white tipped tails
made it easy to spot them when on the hunt. They have a keen sense of
smell as well as excellent eyesight that make them ideal for hunting.
So when did the Beagle change from a hunting dog to a family pet? In
reality, the breed never changed. What changed was the way society
viewed the dogs. Beagles are the ideal size to live in a home with
families, and they also possess an easygoing personality that goes
with the flow of a busy household. Beagles are intelligent, and
because of this intelligence and their endearing looks, Beagles are
often seen in movies and television programs. This exposure makes it
easy to picture them as your family dog. |
If you are considering a Beagle for your next pet,
you are making a good choice. They tend to be good with children and
even babies. There are some things to keep in mind before you bring
your new pet home. You must have a fenced in yard to keep a Beagle
comfortably. These dogs love being outdoors, but they will run off
after anything that moves! They will not tolerate being tied outside
well either. You may want to consider having your Beagle microchipped,
even if you have a fenced yard, because they have a tendency to dig
their way to freedom.
Beagles, even though they are small dogs, need
plenty of room to run, explore, and play. They require a decent amount
of exercise, and will grow obese if they are not given enough. They
bore easily, and a bored Beagle will drive you nuts! The bored Beagle
will chew your shoes, get into your garbage, eat your favorite plants,
and anything else you do not want to see happen. The best way to keep
your dog entertained is through daily walks. If you cannot give this
to your Beagle, you may want to consider a new breed.
Beagles will eat anything they can get into their mouths, whether or
not it is edible. You will need to train your dog not to do this.
Also, whatever food you set down for your Beagle, he will eat. This
means that you must limit the food intake, or your dog will be
overweight and unhealthy.
The Beagle is a fun loving breed. With a Beagle or two in your home,
you will never fail to have entertainment. With plenty of love and
exercise, your Beagle will always be a puppy! If you have an active
home with room for a dog, then consider a Beagle. Just remember to
keep the gate locked!
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