An article on CNN about the origin of names for different dog breeds...

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.

We are lucky our Beagles are not barkers!  Now if I could just get Champ to stop whining all the time.  

They are the most adorable puppies (see proof below)

They do make pretty good companions, minus the whining and pooping on themselves, oh yeah and their three second attention span...

We love 'em though!