Beagle
Quick Summary
Friendly, scent-driven hounds ideal for active families. Best suited for owners who understand their hunting instincts and can provide consistent exercise and training.
Contents
Weight Range
13-30 lbs
♂ Male: 15-20 lbs
♀ Female: 20-30 lbs
Height Range
33-38 inches
♂ Male: 14-16"
♀ Female: 13-15"
Life Expectancy
10-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #72
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Hound Group
Originally bred for Developed in England during the 1500s for hunting rabbits and hares in packs
Popularity
#6
Among the most popular breeds
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 14"-16" |
| Female Height | 13"-15" |
| Male Weight | 15-20 lbs |
| Female Weight | 20-30 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $500-1500 for purchase, plus vaccinations and supplies. Monthly expenses average $100-200 for food, treats, and preventive care. Annual vet costs typically range from $200-500.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Beagles exhibit a merry, outgoing temperament with high energy levels and strong pack instincts. Their curious nature and powerful nose drive their behavior, making them excellent companions but requiring consistent training.
Social Needs
Highly social dogs requiring regular human interaction and companionship. Generally excellent with other dogs and thrive in multi-pet households. Can develop anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
Breed Overview
Beagles captivate with their compact, muscular frames and expressive brown or hazel eyes. Their distinctive tri-colored coats combine white, black, and warm brown tones, complemented by long, velvety ears. These merry hounds possess remarkable scenting abilities, coupled with a gentle, determined nature that makes them exceptional family companions.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent family companion
- ✓ Good with children
- ✓ Low grooming needs
- ✓ Friendly disposition
- ✓ Adaptable to various homes
Cons
- ✗ Strong hunting instincts
- ✗ Frequent barking
- ✗ Can be stubborn
- ✗ Escape artists
- ✗ Food motivated/prone to obesity
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Friendly, Curious, Merry |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Agreeable |
| Grooming Needs | 2-3 Times a Week Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Beagles require 60-90 minutes of daily exercise, combining brisk walks with scent games and off-leash play in secured areas. Their high energy levels demand both physical activity and mental stimulation through tracking exercises.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Beagles need 2-3 measured meals daily, totaling 1-1.5 cups of high-quality dog food. Watch portion sizes as breed prone to obesity. Consider food-dispensing toys to slow eating pace.
Feed 1-1.5 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into 2-3 meals. Adjust portions based on age, activity level, and weight. Avoid free feeding due to tendency toward obesity. Include protein-rich foods.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adaptable to various homes but need secure fencing due to strong hunting instincts. Thrive in spaces with yards, though can adjust to apartment living with adequate exercise.
Require secure, fenced yard due to hunting instincts. Minimum space of 400 square feet recommended. Adapt well to various living situations when exercise needs are met. Escape-proof fencing essential.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Developed from ancient English hounds, Beagles emerged as specialized rabbit hunters in 16th century Britain. Their compact size allowed hunters to follow on foot, while their keen noses and determination made them exceptional trackers.
Historical Purpose
Developed in England during the 1500s for hunting rabbits and hares in packs. Their keen sense of smell and tracking abilities made them preferred hunting companions.
Fun Fact
Beagles have approximately 220 million scent receptors, compared to a human's mere 5 million!
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Require secure fencing to prevent escapes. Need regular exercise to prevent boredom. Prone to weight gain if overfed. Regular ear checks essential due to infection risk.