The Beagle probably originated in England, and has been used for generations hunting birds and small animals. The Beagle shown here is an older dog, but was still very active at the time the portrait was painted. Beagles are good with children, gentle and sociable. They can be stubborn, however, and if let free will generally run off on their own sniffing after game. They have a loud hoarse baying cry that can be disturbing at times.