beagle, breed of small, compact hound developed over centuries in England and introduced into the United States in the 1870s. It stands between 10 and 15 in. (25.4-38.1 cm) high at the shoulder and weighs between 20 and 40 lb (9.1-18.1 kg). The breed is divided into two varieties on the basis of size: those under 13 in. (33 cm) in height and those between 13 and 15 in. (33-38.1 cm). The beagle's short, close-lying, harsh coat is usually colored black, tan, and white. Once widely used, either singly or in packs, to hunt hares, today it is more popular as a field-trial competitor and pet. See dog.

Beagle, naval vessel: see Darwin, Charles Robert.

Breed of small hound, popular as both a pet and a hunter. It looks like a small foxhound, with large brown eyes, hanging ears, and a short coat that is usually a combination of black, tan, and white. Beagles are solidly built and heavy for their height. Two sizes are recognized: those standing less than 13 in. (33 cm) and weighing about 18 lbs (8 kg), and those standing about 15 in. (38 cm) and weighing about 30 lbs (13.5 kg). Beagles generally excel as rabbit hunters and are typically alert and affectionate.

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