Group: Hound Group
Origin: United Kingdom
Breed History
The Beagle is one of the oldest dog breeds, with roots tracing back to ancient Greece. However, the modern Beagle was developed in 19th-century England primarily for hunting small game like rabbits due to its keen sense of smell and stamina.
Size & Weight
- Height:
- 13-inch variety: Up to 13 inches
- 15-inch variety: 13 to 15 inches
- Weight:
- 9 to 11 kg (20 to 25 lbs)
Appearance
- Coat: Short, dense, weather-resistant
- Colors: Commonly tricolor (black, white, brown), lemon & white, red & white
- Eyes: Big, brown or hazel, expressive
- Ears: Long, floppy, set low
Temperament
Beagles are:
- Friendly and curious
- Excellent with children and families
- Gentle and affectionate
- Social with other dogs
- Intelligent, but sometimes stubborn (needs consistent training)
Activity Level
- High energy; requires daily walks and play
- Loves scent-based games and tracking
Feeding Needs
- Balanced diet with portion control to avoid obesity
- Typically 1 to 1.5 cups of dry dog food per day (split into two meals)
Health & Lifespan
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Common Health Issues:
- Ear infections (due to floppy ears)
- Obesity
- Hip dysplasia
- Epilepsy
Grooming
- Low grooming needs
- Weekly brushing to reduce shedding
- Regular ear cleaning and nail trimming
Ideal For
- Families with children
- Active individuals
- First-time dog owners
- Homes with fenced yards
Things to Consider
- Prone to follow scents and wander off
- Can be noisy (baying/howling)
Needs consistent training and socialization