Sporting Dogs

The Beagle. The origin of the Beagle is obscure. Still it is known that its ancestors were kept for hunting the hare as far back as the 16th century. In the United States, where Beagling (hare hunting) is a popular sport, this breed is enormously in favour. Though he is not considered to be a household pet by many, apartment dwellers marvel at his adjustment to city life. He is neat and clean, and seldom barks indoors. His colour is usually white with tan and black markings, coat smooth and short. Head of fair length with long, low-set ears. Skull domed, moderately wide, stop well pronounced, muzzle not snipy. Body short and strong. It is usual to classify them as, "not exceeding 16 inches and over 12 inches", "not. exceeding 12 inches and over 10 inches", and "not exceeding 10 inches". The smallest are often known as pocket beagles. They may have either smooth or rough coat, but the smooth are much the more general.

The Coonhound. One of six Coonhound breeds, the Black and Tan is the most popular. The ancestors of most Coonhounds are Foxhounds, though the Black and Tan has some Bloodhound in his ancestry. Coons (raccoons) are nocturnal animals, and since hunting is generally an autumn and winter sport, these dogs and their owners contend not only with darkness but with icy streams, and freezing weather. Coonhounds track raccoon or opossum entirely by scent, and once it is found or treed give tongue until the guns arrive. They are not expected to kill.

A strong, agile dog with powerful and rhythmic movement. Well-developed flews. Ears, low and well set back, hang in folds and should extend well beyond the tip of the black nose. Strong muscular body and straight legs. Coat short and dense. Colour coal black with rich tan on muzzle, over eyes and on chest, legs and breech-ings. Low-set tail but when the dog is in action carried at right angle to back. The Black and Tan stands from 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder.