The Beagle: A History, The Story of the Beagle

by Michelle Adams

The Beagle has become a popular breed of dog in the United States over the past century or so. In fact, in the 1950′s, this breed enjoyed a brief stint at the number one spot for most sought after dogs in this country. But the Beagle’s roots go back much farther than 100 years or so – and could possibly date back to around 400 B.C. in Greece. Documents show that a Beagle type of dog may have been in existence at this time.

However, the Beagle as we know it probably originated in England in the early years of the second century. Royalty in Great Britain was known to keep packs of these hounds for hunting purposes. The Beagle was originally bred to hunt hares, and is quite adept at sniffing these creatures out and luring them back to the location where the hunter is waiting. To this day, Beagles can still be used for hunting, although many are simply family pets to be enjoyed.

The Beagle spent many years in England developing as a breed by many in the field. During the middle of the 1800′s, Reverend Phillip Honeywood began breeding Beagles that are the closest to the dogs that we are familiar with today. However, these animals were bred for function rather than looks.

England was most definitely the country that can be credited for the development and preservation of the Beagle breed. However, this dog came to the United States in 1876, where the breed was not cared for in the same careful way that it had been in England. General Richard Rowett of Illinois changed that by importing Beagles from England and maintaining careful record keeping of the breeding that took place with these dogs. By 1885, the American Kennel Association recognized Beagles as an official breed, and in 1888 the National Beagle Club was formed. This is the year that a standard for this breed was established.

In the middle part of the last century, the Beagle actually made it to the number one spot as the most popular breed in this country. It has consistently remained in the top ten most desirable breeds, undoubtedly due to its sweet, friendly nature and abounding energy that makes it a perfect family pet.

Are you convinced that Beagle is the perfect choice for your next family pet? If the answer is yes then your homework and research has just begun. Unfortunately, the popularity of these dogs has led to many puppy mills cropping up across the country.

Unfortunately, the history and the popularity of this breed has led to many Beagles getting bred in puppy mills, meaning that you need to do your homework before purchasing a Beagle to ensure that you are getting a dog that will be healthy and social.

By understanding a bit of the history of the breed and collecting other types of Beagle information you will go far in helping yourself to find the right dog for you. You can find this information through articles like this, by studying websites on the Internet and by talking to your veterinarian or responsible breeder. The right dog will bring your family joy for years to come. Enjoy your Beagle!

About the Author:

About the author: Michelle Adams is an avid lover of the Beagle and owns a popular website where you’ll discover how to have a happy, healthy and well behaved Beagle. Among other topics at this website, you will find out more about Beagle Training plus a whole lot more.