08/22/2025
It takes a village to raise a Beagle.
I think I’ve said this before, but one of the biggest surprises to me about the Beagle community as a whole is how uncompetitive and genuinely friendly it actually is. In the Beagle world, the show ring isn’t just about competition—it’s about community.
What I’ve loved most about this journey is how welcoming and supportive fellow breeders, handlers, and enthusiasts have been. We’re not here to see our dog win at any cost—we’re here to see the best dogs win. Because when quality wins, the breed wins.
I’m so far outside the “normal” breeder mold—still growing my own family, juggling life with kids, and without the same laser focus some can devote entirely to their dogs. And yet, the support has been incredible. People have helped my kids get involved, answered the questions I didn’t know the answers to, and cheered us on along the way.
And it’s not just in the ring where this community shines—it’s in the whelping pen, in the kennels, and in the everyday moments of raising and caring for these dogs. From experienced mentors guiding the next generation, to friends lending a hand (or a brush) before we step into the ring, it’s a reminder that this sport thrives on cooperation.
We need one another—without that shared commitment, the breed we love so much would eventually fade. When we work together with the same goals in mind, we’re building more than champions. We’re building a future for the Beagle. ❤️
This is Lydia and Penny with Debi and Ivy, who took best of breed at the EKC. Last year Ivy was the #1 beagle in Canada, and this year she was Best Opposite in both the National and Western Specialties. Debi has been an amazing encouragement, especially to Lydia. Cheering her on from the sidelines, and offering so much encouragement and advice to handle her dog.