Those unfamiliar with grooming dogs for a show ring assume that short hair breeds require no grooming. They would learn, as we did at a Pat Hastings seminar back in the day when we were newbies, that nothing could be further from the truth. Recruiting a Dalmatian to prove the point, Pat showed the audience how using a rubber curry, a grooming stone, and clippers transformed a lovely Dalmatian into a Show Dog! The goal was to make the dog look as if he was made out of porcelain: Smooth like glass, no stray hairs, and a coat that laid flat against the body. It was remarkable. 
We suspect that similar assumptions are made about a sturdy little dog like the Beagle. While this working hound should have a natural appearance in a show ring, excess hair is trimmed from the neck and body to tidy her outline, but not to the extent that she looks as if she has been coiffed, barbered or shaved. That said, show Beagles are not unfamiliar with scissors. Long hairs at the tip of a Beagle’s tail are shaped to give a smoother natural appearance in a show ring. The tail should end in a properly rounded tip, but not flattened or squared off, nor should the hair be teased and backcombed to resemble a bottle brush.This is a Beagle!!
Miss P., Best in Show winner at Westminster in 2015 (seen in the photo after her famous meal at Sardis), was beautifully presented by her handler, Will Alexander. This photo, however, does a better job of not only showing that tail tip, but also how Miss P looks as if she was zipped into a onesie Beagle suit. Beautiful.
If you’re a fancier showing a short haired breed that takes a bit of grooming, tell us how you prepare your dog for the ring!
Image: “Best Friend” by Le Linh, owner of is available for purchase here
Beagle is one of my favourites. Expressive eyes and a good size, a splendid body. They need a lot of exercise. But when I needed a new puppy, I always adopted one. No Beagle among them, unfortunately. But I allays wonted one. I use to say that, at some point, I will have a Beagle. Now I am too old for such a joyful and active dog!
Dana, have you considered an older, retired Beagle? We don’t doubt there’s one out there who would be thrilled to be part of your family. Holler if you need help finding one.