You’ve heard of the old saying, “What’s old is new again”? This certainly applies to the resurgence in popularity of miniature Beagles, which were dogs of royalty hundreds of years ago. Beagles themselves are miniatures of Foxhounds (according to the breed standard). Miniature animals were great curiosities for the rich and powerful of Europe (note the appearance of miniature horses and the rise of toy dogs). Miniature animals have gotten back into favor since more and more dog lovers have less land to exercise their dogs.
The first recorded miniature Beagle was in the 1300’s. They appear in royal portraits with noses pointier than today’s standards and legs more like Corgis or Bassett Hounds than the rangy Beagle. Lovers of Beagle information found that miniature Beagles were also called “Pocket Beagles” and “Glove Beagles.” Sometimes today they are advertised as “Teacup Beagles”, although the term “Miniature Beagles” is much preferred.
Miniature Beagles are part of the growing group of dogs known as “designer dogs”. Although designer dogs can include hybrids and mixes for the desired result, many designer dog breeders focus their efforts at producing miniature versions of popular breeds. Officially the American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize a breed called “Miniature Beagles”. “Miniature Beagles” seems to be more of an advertising gimmick to catch the eyes of someone who is looking specifically for a small dog. With the popularity of small dogs used as fashion accessories by starlets like Paris Hilton, any small dog that looks different from the usual suspect breeds will draw attention.
Beagles are officially shown in two classes in AKC sanctioned shows. Beagles are measured at their withers like horses in order to determine how tall they are. There is an over thirteen inches high class and a less than thirteen inches high class. The average height of a Beagle is thirteen inches. Although a Beagle over fifteen inches tall is disqualified there is no lower height limit.
Although it might be tempting to breed your pet miniature Beagle, do yourself and the dog a favor by getting him neutered or her spayed as soon as they hit six months of age. Neutering and spaying cannot only protect the dog from some cancers, but will cut out the distraction of looking for a mate so they can focus on paying more attention to you. Leave dog breeding to the professionals.
Miniature Beagles are very social animals that love company. They also love to be the center of attention. Perhaps they can remember their days when miniature Beagles were the prized pets of European royalty in the 1300’s – 1400’s. Queen Elizabeth I was said to have one. Your home will, indeed be your miniature Beagle’s castle. Your miniature Beagle will give you lots and lots of non-judgmental companionship, so be willing to give some to your dog in return.
It is hoped that by spreading accurate information about all Beagle types they will be bred more responsibly. This author is currently writing a book about designer dogs, and plans to include a section on miniature Beagle information.
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