GROUP 4 - HOUNDS

Brief History

The Beagles origins were in the small hare and rabbit hunting hounds which have existed for many centuries in England and were used in packs for sport, catching food and pest control. There were many packs registered, each working its own area, but over the last century they have been disbanded due to social changes and the Beagle is now more a companion and family pet. They are quite a popular dog around the world.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime.

The average life span is 12 to 14 years but can be longer.

Temperament
Merry, amiable and alert. Can be stubborn and determined.

General Breed Description
Beagles are a popular, good-looking sturdy little hound with an appealing face and strong personality. Their historical pack hound background mean that they fit into a family social structure very well if the rules are taught when young and they get on well with other dogs and the family – in fact they need and love company and do not thrive if routinely left on their own for long periods. They are strong willed, so patience is necessary when training, but they are also intelligent and can learn quickly. Beagles are also very interactive, so a good dog to have as a companion in the house.

Many of them retain a strong scenting instinct which can override anything else happening at that moment in time, so their recall is often weak. They have very little road sense and cannot usually be trusted off leash.

They come in most colour combinations and tones of black, tan and white.

Coat and Care Requirements
The short weatherproof coat is low maintenance, with a weekly good brush and a bath as needed keeping it in good condition. As with most dogs they change coat twice a year.

Beagles tend to roam if allowed, so good fencing is required and they should always be walked on a leash. A daily walk is recommended.

This breed needs company to thrive.

They are usually excellent eaters and their weight should be watched.

Size
Height: 33 to 40cms (13-16ins).

Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders it is recommended you enquire about the breed’s health and what health testing the breeder does. The Beagle is generally a healthy breed, however health conditions do occur occasionally. This may include epilepsy, cherry eye and MLS (musladin lueke syndrome).

Suitability
Generally excellent with all families.

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard https://dogsaustralia.org.au/breed/detail/131