Beagles: A guide to dogs and puppies of the Beagle breed

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The Beagle!

The Beagle is a small but toughly built hound with a resemblance to the English foxhound. It has a wide, somewhat rounded skull, a squared muzzle, wide nostrils, and long, broad, hanging ears. It also has a tail that it carries in a lively manner, as well as sturdy, circular feet. In the US, this breed is a popular family pet. Though a good hunting aid, it needs to be carried across rough terrain.

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
12-15 years

Energy Level:
Higher than average.

Living Conditions:
Apartment life is ok if beagle receives time outside.

Barking:
Average.

Exercise Needs:
Brisk walk and yard play daily.

Breed Group:
Hound

Size:
Small

Height:
11 to 15 inches

Weight:
20-25 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
White in combination with red, lemon, or orange.

National breed club:
National Beagle Club of America

Beagle Skills

Because of its size, hunters of 14th century England preferred the Beagle as a hunting companion, as they can easily follow it on foot. It was primarily used for hunting hare, and by the 1800s, even smaller dogs of this breed became popular. By the end of the century in the US, the Beagle gained popularity in conformation and field competitions. It is currently popular in rabbit trailing, detection of illegal goods, and beagle field trials.

Beagle Personality

This is a friendly and affectionate hound that constantly needs to be with humans or other dogs. However, it should not be left unsupervised with other types of pets except if it had early socialization with different pets. It is obedient and relaxed, as long as it has enough exercise and gets to walk around outside. The Beagle needs to be kept on leash, though, as it readily follows a scent trail. Its willingness and mild behavior make it an ideal pet and playmate for children. Patient and consistent training is required for this breed, to control its extremely autonomous attitude.

Exercise Needs

This breed requires a lot of exercise, though a daily energetic walk on leash and leaving it in a medium-sized yard for playtime would suffice.

Living Conditions

Apartment life is all right for a Beagle that is given ample time to roam and play outdoors. Access to a small yard is also adequate, while it may also live in temperate weather outdoors in a warm shelter with bedding. It does best when sharing space with its family.

Grooming Requirements

The coat is easy to maintain, only needing some occasional brushing and mild-soap bathing. The nails should be trimmed regularly, and the ears must be checked thoroughly for infection.

Health Issues

Vulnerability to eye ailments, cleft lip, back problems, heart disease, dwarfism and epilepsy is common to this breed.

If you liked this dog…

...you might also want to try the Harrier, a hardy, medium-sized dog that looks a lot like the Beagle. It also does well in the company of other dogs, just as curious though a little less playful, and has superior watchdog abilities.