Page 23 - ShowSight Presents - The Beagle
P. 23
JUDGING THE BEAGLE
The General Appearance portion of the AKC Standard gives great insight into the essence of the Beagle. A miniature Foxhound,
solid and big for his inches, with the wear- and-tear look of the hound that can last in the chase and follow his quarry to the death. One side note, it is referring to an English Foxhound and the quarry is rabbit and/or hare.
Beagles are a moderate breed. If your eye is drawn to some exaggerated portion of the dog, it is not correct. Please remember the drag of this breed is long and low. We have issues with dwarfism in this breed, and you will see some of those characteristics in the show ring today. A 15" body on 13" legs does not make a 13" Beagle. Balance is key!
The only disqualification in this breed is any hound measuring over 15" in height. As a judge you should never utter the words, “I did not use your dog because I felt it was too big.” When in doubt, measure!
“THE STANDARD
REFERS TO
A BEAGLE
that is solid and big for his inches.”
The standard refers to a Beagle who is solid and big for his inches. There can be quite a size range within each variety. The standard refers to a beagle that is solid and big for his inches. 131⁄2" Beagles may appear too small next to a Beagle measuring 15". We have a lot of high quality, 131⁄2" Beagles who get lost
By Kathy Forbes
in the mix because. Judges don’t look at them as individuals but instead compare them to the larger exhibits in the ring. Remember, the standard says solid and big for his inches not solid and big. Please look at every Beagle as an individual when assessing size, bone and balance.
Often referred to as the “Merry Little Beagle” it goes without saying you want to see them moving around the ring in a happy manner. Aggressive or shy behavior should not be tolerated.
When viewing the Beagle in profile on the table, first of all, make sure the front
