Origin
United Kingdom
Lifespan
12–15 years
Weight
9–11 kg
Height
33–41 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Tricolor · Red and White · Lemon and White · Black and Tan
Beagle
About This Breed
The Beagle is a breed of small scent hound, similar in appearance to the much larger foxhound. Beagles are highly curious, playful, and energetic dogs. They have an excellent sense of smell and are used for rabbit and hare hunting. Beagles have become popular pets because of their small size, good temperament, and lack of inherited health problems. They are known for their vocality, including their distinctive bay/howl. They are friendly dogs that love people and other dogs.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Beagle
Origin
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| Group | Hounds |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 9–11 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Height | 33–41 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | Tricolor · Red and White · Lemon and White · Black and Tan |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Friendly · Curious · Merry · Determined · Gentle |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Usually needs relatively little coat care. Brush as needed for its coat and shedding.
Some shedding is expected, and it may change with the season.
Living together
A familiar routine can help it settle in.
Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.
Often gets along with other pets. Introduce them gradually rather than assuming they will be friends.
Training and activities
Practice in short sessions and reward the behavior you want.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
Beagles are generally considered to be medium-sized dogs, but they actually come in two sizes: One standing 12–15 inches tall, and a more miniature Beagle size of under 12 inches. No matter their size, a full-grown Beagle’s weight shouldn’t exceed 30 pounds. Beagles come in several colors, including lemon, red and white, and the more common tricolor of black, brown, and white. The dogs have a smooth, dense double coat, a tail that seemingly never stops wagging, and floppy ears. Caring for a Beagle Beagles make wonderful pets for families and active pet parents.
Care Guide
Beagles make wonderful pets for families and active pet parents. But take note: They need a lot of activities and supervision, as they are prone to following their nose to trouble. Along with caring for their mental well-being, Beagles need special attention paid to their physical health too. Their floppy ears make them more susceptible to ear infections, so pet parents need to clean their Beagle’s ears regularly. Beagle dogs are also prone to obesity, so they need measured meals spaced at regular time intervals (free-feeding is not recommended).