History of the Beagle Hunting Dog
The history of the Beagle and how it became a hunting dog is clouded. Since very early times, small hounds similar to the Beagle have existed for the hunting of hare in the British Isles, particularly in Wales. The original form probably came with the Celts, although certainly crossing with types such as the hounds of Artois or others created this modern breed. Throughout the world, dogs are used by hunters individually or in small packs for tracking and pursuing small game such as squirrel, rabbit and hare, and one of the breeds particularly suited for this task is the Beagle. They are determined, keen hunters, and their baying during a hunt brings goose-bumps to novice hunter and the oldest professional alike. During the days of King Henry VIII and his daughter, Elizabeth I, Beagles were sometimes wire-haired. They were also very small, often diminutive enough to be carried to the field in the pocket of a hunt coat. It has even been reported that 10 or 12 couples of Beagles could be carried in saddle baskets! Over the years the size has somewhat increased, but the little "pocket" Beagles still occasionally crop up in a litter. American top size is 15 inches, although in England they allow them up to 16 inches. Hounds of the Beagle sort were brought into the States throughout the Colonial period, but type varied until further imports from England arrived in the 1880s and 1890s. The Beagle's ability to drill a trail and work the rabbit back around to the waiting hunter have contributed to his demand as a hunting companion. The Beagle has a sleek, easy-care, short coat in tri-color, red and white, orange and white, or lemon and white. The coat is close, hard and of medium length. The skull is broad and slightly rounded, and the muzzle is straight and square. The feet are round and strong. The black nose has full nostrils for scenting. The long, wide ears are pendant. The brown or hazel eyes have a characteristic pleading expression. The tail is carried gaily, but never curled over the back. Needing little grooming, they are easy to maintain.
