With the rise of designer dogs, some dog lovers are wincing while others are enthusiastically embracing the latest canine adaptation to life with humans. While many designer dogs types are hybrids (like the comical Labradoodle and the adorable Puggle), many more are miniaturized versions of their better-known counterparts. A miniature Keeshond, for example, fails to get dropped jaws. One of the more popular "teacup" types is the miniature Beagle.

Beagles themselves are miniature versions of the mighty Foxhounds (English or American) that are big, elegant, strong dogs. Beagles were bred for the hunt, as well as Jack Russels. A usual English foxhunting pack had a few "couples" of Beagles to get into places the big Foxhounds couldn't, and Jack Russels to get into the places even the Beagles couldn't get into. Beagles have always had a height variation in their breed. This is why in America they are shown in two classes ? for Beagles up to thirteen inches at the withers and Beagles between thirteen and fifteen inches.

Miniature Beagles are part of the growing group of dogs known as "designer dogs". Although designer dogs can include hybrids and mixes for the desired result, many designer dog breeders focus their efforts at producing miniature versions of popular breeds. Officially the American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize a breed called "Miniature Beagles". "Miniature Beagles" seems to be more of an advertising gimmick to catch the eyes of someone who is looking specifically for a small dog. With the popularity of small dogs used as fashion accessories by starlets like Paris Hilton, any small dog that looks different from the usual suspect breeds will draw attention.

Beagles are officially shown in two classes in AKC sanctioned shows. Beagles are measured at their withers like horses in order to determine how tall they are. There is an over thirteen inches high class and a less than thirteen inches high class. The average height of a Beagle is thirteen inches. Although a Beagle over fifteen inches tall is disqualified there is no lower height limit.

Although miniature Beagles are more unpredictable in behavior than Beagles, they do share some things in common (besides looks). They usually are highly trainable and highly motivated by food rewards. Observe to see what treat your miniature Beagle goes wild for and reserve that treat for training sessions only.

Neutering and spaying cannot only protect the dog from some cancers, but will cut out the distraction of looking for a mate so they can focus on paying more attention to you. Leave dog breeding to the professionals.

Beagles, including miniature Beagles, are usually very good with children. Beagle types used to be extremely popular in America as family dogs for this reason. Miniature Beagles are one of the quieter small dogs, but they are excellent guard dogs and will vocalize in order to warn your family (his pack) of any intruder.

If you really want a unique looking dog, go adopt a mutt from an animal shelter. It'll cost you a lot less and save a dog's life.