Couple of things for consideration. Beagles are def not suited as swim dogs. Yes they’ll do it watch em chase cane cutters through the water. Just not their speciality. Regarding beagles flushing birds out of range. Prob hare dog type wind splitters. Get some line control beagles and you’ll shoot all the pheasant you want if you want to. I break mine off birds if they’re so inclined.
The NAHVDA thing so many are keen on is not my style. No dog can do everything best. They’re a compromise.
Ain’t many dogs retrieving like a hard core retriever, can’t take the wet, wind and cold like a Chessie. Can’t run with the wind and point like a horseback pointer, can’t track like a hound, or tree all night. Just ain’t happening. You never see a navda dog compete in these speciality dog events and even place. They won’t/cant hang. If you’re looking for do it all ok type dog it could suit you. Yes I’ve run and worked navda events for my buddy was officer in a couple local clubs. Bored me to death watching em
I should add this was no NAVDA bash nor on the guys use or support em. Just personal thoughts. Thought I’d better clarify that before someone assumed less
