Beagle: Data Of Interest
The beagle is a medium-sized dog that stands out for its elegance, its lively and docile character, and a powerful nose. Although they have their origin in England, these dogs are among the most popular in America, especially in the United States. Next, we invite you to know some curiosities and information of interest about this dog.
Very little is known about its exact origins
Although the standardization of the breed is attributed to Great Britain, little is known exactly about its origins. The earliest known record of these hounds is found in Xenophon’s ‘Treatise on the Hunt’. Considering the description offered by the Greek philosopher and military man, these accounts could correspond to the ancestors and origins of the current beagle.
Later, we find very diverse records that allow us to understand that the ancestors of the modern beagle have accompanied humanity since very primitive times. From the 18th century, more select crosses began to be made to standardize the characteristics of the breed.
In the 19th century , around 1840, the beagle arrived on the American continent, originally adopted as a hunting dog. However, due to their charismatic character and remarkable beauty, these dogs have quickly gained enormous popularity as family companions.
Queen Elizabeth I and the ‘pocket beagle’
In the 18th century, the beagle underwent a ‘dwarfing’ process, to generate thinner specimens with a smaller size than traditional bloodhounds.
Although they are already extinct today, ‘pocket beagles’ or ‘dwarf bleagles’ have been very popular. Among his most recognized admirers, we find neither more nor less than Queen Elizabeth I.
As often happens, this process has had a negative impact on the health of the specimens by generating pictures of dwarfism, genetic malformations, fertility problems, weak immune system, etc.
For these reasons and situations that have occurred in its history, the ‘pocket beagle’ has not managed to survive. Today we only know the standard size specimens.
The beagle is a very intelligent and sensitive dog
Beagle dogs are really smart and show highly developed senses. In addition, they respond optimally to positive reinforcement training.
Thanks to their powerful sense of smell, these animals have an incredible ability to track, which explains their enormous success in hunting. Their energetic temperament and predisposition to work have facilitated adaptation to pack hunting. Nowadays, they also successfully perform duties as detection dogs.
Snoopy, the most famous beagle dog in the world
Surely all of us know the beautiful and funny dog Snoopy, created by Charles M. Schulz. What many people do not know is that the charismatic companion of the boy Charlie Brown was inspired by the beagle dogs. If we look at Snoopy’s ears and physical build, we quickly find in this well-known character the most prominent features of this beloved breed of dog.
Beagle dogs tend to be in optimal health
Beagle dogs are very strong and resistant, which is why they usually enjoy excellent health. These dogs are prone to obesity and need special care with their ears; Furthermore, they show a low genetic predisposition to most of the degenerative diseases common in other canine breeds.
When they receive the proper care and have adequate preventive medicine, these dogs hardly get sick and can enjoy a privileged longevity. Currently, it is estimated that the life expectancy of this breed is between 12 and 15 years.
Beagle ears require special attention from their owners
Because of their long drooping ears, beagles can easily collect moisture and dirt in their ear canal. Therefore, they are especially prone to developing otitis and need special care.
In addition to regular cleaning, it will be essential to completely dry the internal and external epithelium, especially when the dog is bathing or getting wet from any activity.
Remember the importance of regularly checking the beagle’s ears. It is necessary to consult the veterinarian when observing any abnormality, such as redness, unpleasant odor or swelling.
The beagle has historically been used in experiments
Unfortunately, its great character and excellent health also made this breed one of the most widely used in dermatological and cosmetic product research.
Little by little, many brands are eliminating tests on animals and we can all help, especially if we give preference to those products that have already eliminated such experiments.
