Though our last beagle was almost never around children, she was totally gentle with little ones - even when they were tormenting her. I fully believe that she understood not only tone of voice and behavioral context, but also words. Can be wonderful, intelligent family members. Those people who think Beagles cannot be wonderful family pets are very much mistaken. Your average beagle is FAR from stupid.
Beagles are simply stubborn.
Taking a Beagle through obediance is a must for the new Beagle owner. The best field trial and gun dog champions in the world didn't come by it without some training. In short, if you want a loving, affectionate dog and have the patience and time to train a dog, then a beagle may be the best dog you could ever want. Beagles are the most wonderfull lovely persons on earth. I know by experions, I live together with 11 of them.