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01/Overview
The delightful and determined Beagle is a small, compact, and hardy hound, appreciated by so many for its playful demeanor and soulful expression. Acknowledged by hunters for its keen sense of smell and exceptional tracking abilities, the Beagle's origins are thought to trace back to ancient Greece and Rome. Traditionally used for hunting hare, the breed has since transcended the role to become a capable detection dog, a star in the show ring, and a popular choice as a family companion.
02/History
The Beagle's origins can be traced back over 2,000 years to Ancient Greece. Writings from that period mention small hound dogs used for tracking and hunting, and while it's debatable if these dogs were the direct ancestors of today's hounds, they certainly share much in common. The Romans brought small hounds with them to England which were crossbred with local dogs, producing what may be recognized as the early Beagle. By the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, pocket-sized hounds, known as "Elizabethan Pocket Beagles," were popular in the royal courts.
The name "Beagle" is believed to have been derived from the Old French word be'geule, referring to the baying voice of the hounds when on the hunt. Another theory is that it originates from the Gaelic word beag, which means "little," emphasizing the breed's small size.
The modern Beagle owes its development primarily to breeders in the 19th century, when Reverend Philip Honeywood established a breeding program in Essex, England. His main objective was to produce dogs with excellent hunting skills, though not necessarily with a consistent look. Thomas Johnson later refined the breed, focusing on enhancing its appearance without compromising its hunting abilities.
During the 1840s, Beagles were introduced to the United States where they became popular as pack hunting dogs. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the breed in 1885 and as its popularity steadily grew. By the mid-20th century, the Beagle had become favored as a household pet. And although many still partake in hunting rabbits and hare, many more excel as companions and as Therapy Dogs or airport Detection Dogs.
