Beagles and Where They Came From

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. Another Englishman, Thomas Johnson took that breeding a step further to combine the best of both worlds - an attractive dog that was a competent hunter as well. Beagles came to the United States at about this time, although the same care was not taken at first to preserve the breed.

A man in Illinois by the name of General Richard Rowett imported Beagles from England and began the careful process of breeding high quality dogs. In 1885, the American Kennel Association began to recognize the breed of Beagle, and by 1888, standards were established for these dogs and the National Beagle Club was formed. Since that time, Beagles have continued to be one of the most popular choices in dogs in this country, due to their looks, skills and temperaments.

If you are considering Beagle as a family pet you can rest assured that you will be getting a dog with a rich and colorful history. Whether you plan to use your dog as a hunting companion or simply a companion to curl up on the couch with on cold winter nights, this dog can fit the bill. 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!

Michelle Adams is a dog lover who has spent plenty of time researching the history of the various breeds of dogs, including the Beagle. Because of the specific breeding that Beagles have undergone, understanding the history of the Beagle can help you to better work with your own pet. There is plenty of Beagle information available including the interesting history of your pet. Articles like this and interviews with experts in the field will help you to understand where your Beagle came from and why he acts the way he does.