Beagle

Also known as: Little, Be'geule

Size Category:Small
Height:13-15 inches
Weight:20-30 pounds
Life Span:10-15 years

Affectionate With Family

How affectionate a breed is likely to be with family members, or other people he knows well. Some breeds can be aloof with everyone but their owner, while other breeds treat everyone they know like their best friend.

Good With Young Children

A breed's level of tolerance and patience with childrens' behavior, and overall family-friendly nature. Dogs should always be supervised around young children, or children of any age who have little exposure to dogs.

Good With Other Dogs

How generally friendly a breed is towards other dogs. Dogs should always be supervised for interactions and introductions with other dogs, but some breeds are innately more likely to get along with other dogs, both at home and in public.

Openness To Strangers

How welcoming a breed is likely to be towards strangers. Some breeds will be reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the location, while other breeds will be happy to meet a new human whenever one is around!

Note: Scores reflect typical breed tendencies. Individual dogs may vary based on training, environment, and genetics.

Note: Some traits may be unavailable for certain breeds due to limited or inconsistent data from recognized sources.

Care Guide

  • Beagle grooming: requires weekly brushing with medium-bristle brush, rubber mitt, or hound glove to manage moderate year-round shedding and heavier spring shedding
  • bathe only when messy to avoid over-drying their smooth double coat
  • trim nails regularly to prevent pain, walking issues, and running problems
  • coat gets denser in winter, requiring extra attention during shedding season
  • avoid excessive bathing to maintain skin and coat health
  • brushing promotes new hair growth while removing loose fur

Colors & Markings

Colors

Red & BlackBlackRedLemonBlue & WhiteBrownWhiteTanBlack & WhiteBlack Tan & RedtickBlack Fawn & WhiteBlueWhite Black & TanBlue Tan & WhiteBlack & TanBlack Tan & BluetickBlack Tan & WhiteBlack White & TanBrown & WhiteBrown White & TanLemon & WhiteTan & WhiteRed & WhiteBlack Red & WhiteRed Black & White

Markings

TickedWhite MarkingsBrown MarkingsTan MarkingsBlack MarkingsSpotted

Health Information

Ethical Beagle breeders prioritize health testing for common issues like hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, luxating patella, and eye disorders. Regular ear checks and dental care are essential for maintaining a Beagle’s well-being.

Recommended Health Tests

Hip EvaluationCardiac ExamOphthalmologist EvaluationThyroid EvaluationMusladin-Lueke Syndrome (MLS) - DNA Test

📜 History

The Beagle's origins remain debated, with its name possibly linked to the Gaelic word beag ('little') or the French be'geule (hunting hound bark). Evidence suggests small pack-hounds were used for rabbit and hare hunting in England long before 55 B.C. By the 1500s, smaller, agile hounds—ancestors of today’s Beagle—were favored for hare tracking. Known as 'foot hounds,' Beagles allowed hunters to track game on foot without horses, making them accessible to all. Post-Civil War, Beagles arrived in America, quickly gaining popularity among rabbit hunters. The AKC registered its first Beagle, Blunder, in 1885, and the breed remains a beloved choice for its keen nose, melodic voice, and energetic hunting style in North America’s wooded regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the Beagle is generally excellent with children. They are typically patient and tolerant, making them great family pets. However, supervision with young children is always recommended.
The Beagle sheds a moderate amount. Regular brushing can help keep loose hair under control.
The Beagle has average trainability. They can learn commands well but might require consistent repetition and motivation.
The Beagle is relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Occasional brushing and baths are usually sufficient.
The Beagle can be a suitable choice for a first-time owner who is willing to do their research and dedicate time to training and care.

🔗Related Breeds

Breeds similar to Beagle

Overview

About This Breed

The Beagle is a friendly, curious, and merry breed known for its sociable nature and strong pack instincts. They are affectionate with family, excellent with children and other dogs, but can be vocal and stubborn, requiring consistent training and mental stimulation to thrive.

🎭Temperament

AmiableEven TemperedExcitableDeterminedGentleIntelligent

Purpose

Hunting (pack hound for rabbit and hare, designed for hunting on foot)

Breed for

Rabbit, hare hunting

Best Suited For

Active families, outdoor enthusiasts, and owners who can provide companionship and regular exercise

Ideal Owner Profile

This breed is best suited for an active, patient owner or family who can provide companionship, regular outdoor exercise, and enjoy a playful, social, and energetic dog.

Training Difficulty

Moderate

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Common Challenges

Owners may face challenges with strong scent-driven wandering tendencies (requiring secure fencing) and moderate stubbornness during training.

Trust & Transparency

About Our Data

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Accuracy Assured

Our breed data is standardized using a consistent scoring system across temperament, trainability, and care needs to ensure fair comparisons based on the same criteria.

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