Beagle

The Beagle is one of the most lovable troublemakers in the dog world—a compact scent hound originally bred in England for hunting rabbits. With their soulful eyes, floppy ears, and eternally wagging tail, Beagles have perfected the art of looking innocent even when they've just raided your kitchen counter. These merry little detectives were designed to follow their nose above all else, which means their incredible sense of smell can override even the most well-trained recall command.

Beagles are pack animals at heart, thriving on companionship whether with humans or other dogs, and they'll serenade you with their distinctive howl-bay-bark combo (your neighbors will have opinions about this). They need regular exercise to burn off their considerable energy and prevent boredom-driven destruction, plus they're food-motivated to a fault—these dogs will eat anything, anytime, and blame you for not hiding it better.

If you want a cheerful, affectionate family dog who's great with kids and other pets, and you can handle some stubborn independence and creative escape artistry, a Beagle brings endless entertainment and loyalty. Just invest in a secure fence and hide the snacks.