Kerry Beagle
The Kerry Beagle is a rare Irish scent hound originating from County Kerry. The Kerry Beagle comes from Ireland. Individual Kerry Beagles vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Ireland
About the Kerry Beagle
The Kerry Beagle is a rare Irish scent hound originating from County Kerry. Known for its distinctive baying howl, it was once used for hunting small game.
Appearance
Despite its name, the Kerry Beagle is not a small hound. Beag is an Irish word for small, given to the dog because it is smaller than other hounds, such as the Irish Wolfhound for whom it flushed deer; with its height being between 56–61 cm (22–24 in), and its weight up to 27 kg (60 lb) . The Kerry Beagle has a broad head, a short coat and long ears, black and tan is the more common colour but the coat may be tan and white, blue mottled and tan or black. The breed''s looks suggests speed and endurance.
Temperament
This breed of dog is a pack hound and does hold the hunting instinct strong. They do however make very good pets as they are good with children and other dogs. They require a lot of exercise, regular twice to three times daily walks and free runs.
History and use
The Kerry Beagle believed to date back to the 16th century; detailed pedigrees date back as far as 1794. By the 1800s the Kerry Beagle''s numbers had dwindled in Ireland, with only one major pack maintained, the famous Scarteen of County Limerick belonging to the Ryan family, which still exists today. Originally bred as staghounds , today they are used to hunt fox and hare and take part in drag hunting . The Kerry Beagle was only recognized by the Irish Kennel Club in 1991. The Kerry Beagle was taken by many Irish immigrants to the Americas and is considered a foundation breed in the development of the Coonhound and American foxhound. The breed’s markings were reportedly the origin of the “ Black and Tans ” nickname applied to recruits to the Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC) during the Irish War of Independence (1919-21) . The improvised uniforms initially worn by these men were a mixture of dark RIC or British police tunics and caps, and khaki army trousers, which reminded one observer of the aforementioned foxhunting Kerry Beagles in the Scarteen Hunt . The nickname took hold and persisted even after the men received full RIC uniforms.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Kerry Beagle?
The Kerry Beagle is a medium-sized scent hound with a sturdy build, short coat, and long ears. They typically weigh between 25-35 kg and stand 30-40 cm tall at the shoulder. Their coat is usually fawn or red with white markings, and they have a distinctive bay-like howl.
Is the Kerry Beagle a good family dog?
As a scent hound, the Kerry Beagle requires regular exercise and attention. They can be good with children if socialized properly, but may not be suitable for very young children due to their strong hunting instinct. They also need patient owners who can handle their independent nature.
What health problems do Kerry Beagles have?
Scent hounds are generally prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, eye problems, and ear infections. Kerry Beagles may also be susceptible to bloat and gastric torsion. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet can help mitigate these risks.
How much does a Kerry Beagle puppy cost?
The cost of a Kerry Beagle puppy can vary depending on location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. On average, you can expect to pay between €500-€1,500 (approximately $550-$1,650 USD) for a puppy from a reputable breeder.
Where do Kerry Beagles come from?
The Kerry Beagle comes from Ireland. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Kerry Beagle, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.