[Source](https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/25492/how-13-dog-breeds-got-their-names) > Beagle > The exact origins of the word beagle are a bit mysterious, but anybody who has spent much time with the breed will believe the most commonly accepted story. The American Kennel Club traces the name back to the 16th century, when the hounds became associated with the French word becguele (“noisy person”) thanks to the din of their howls during hunts. Anyone who's has a beagle knows exactly what they're talking about here.