The short smooth coat requires little in the way of grooming and sheds minimally.  Ideal specimens of this breed are submissive (meaning they are willing to let you and your children be the boss) and not very protective.

If you could use only one word to describe a Beagle it would be "merry".  These are wonderful little dogs for children. Good natured, cheerful and gentle, the best representatives of this breed are affectionate, intelligent, active, bold, inquisitive, lively, hardy and clever.  Unfortunately, they're also stubborn and will allow nothing to deter them when they are on the scent.  

Beagles tolerate "love" and affection in abundance from children. This breed needs companionship and will bark and howl incessantly if left alone.  One solution to this problem (if your children go off to school during the day and you to work), is to buy two so each will have a companion.  If neglected, your beagle will find often destructive ways to entertain himself.  (If you want an animal who thrives on 2 hours or less of companionship with you a day, choose a cat.)
  
Beagles from show lines tend to make the best pets, as field lines tend to produce a high-strung dog less suited to family life.  Avoid breeders who offer "Pocket Beagles", a miniaturized version of the affable beagle in appearance only. Rarely are "teacup" varieties of any breed achieved without much sacrifice in the areas of temperament and good health.