Beagle

A pack hound bred to live among other dogs, the Beagle tends to treat a houseful of noisy children as more pack and seldom takes offence at being jostled. At around 10 kg it is the smallest breed here, but sturdy rather than delicate. Its nose runs the show. Expect stolen sandwiches, a dog that ignores recall once it finds a scent, and a baying voice loud enough to wake a napping baby.