Beagle
Updated November 30, 2025
The Beagle is a beloved and popular breed, known for its cheerful personality and exceptional sense of smell. They are active and curious dogs that require plenty of exercise and patient training. Their friendly nature makes them a great fit for families.
Friendly, Curious, Merry, Determined, Intelligent
20-25 pounds
13-15 inches
10-15 years
Tricolor (black, tan, and white), Red and white, Lemon and white, Blue, tan and white, Black and tan
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Beagle
The Beagle is a beloved and popular breed, known for its cheerful personality and exceptional sense of smell. They are active and curious dogs that require plenty of exercise and patient training. Their friendly nature makes them a great fit for families.
What Makes Beagles Special
The Beagle is a small to medium-sized hound known for its merry disposition, floppy ears, and big brown eyes. They are scent hounds, originally bred for hunting hare, and their powerful nose often leads them into mischief.
Friendly to everyone they meet, Beagles are pack animals that thrive on companionship, both human and canine. Their loving and curious nature makes them a popular family pet.
Beagle History & Origin
The modern Beagle breed was developed in Great Britain in the 1830s from several hound breeds, including the Talbot Hound and the North Country Beagle. They were bred for tracking hare by scent in a sport known as 'beagling'.
The origin of the name 'Beagle' is uncertain, but it may have been derived from the French word 'begueule', meaning 'open throat'.
Small pack hounds of the Beagle type have existed for centuries, with records of 'pocket beagles' owned by Queen Elizabeth I.
The Beagle was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885.
Their popularity in the United States has been consistently high, and they are beloved for their dual role as a skilled hunting dog and a cherished family companion.
Beagle Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Beagle Appearance
Beagles are sturdy, squarely-built hounds with a slightly domed skull and long, low-set ears. Their expression is typically gentle and pleading.
They are famous for their tail, which is held high and often has a white tip, historically used to help hunters spot them in tall grass.
Physical Features
Ears
The ears are long, soft, and set low on the head, hanging down towards the nose.
Eyes
Their large eyes are either brown or hazel and have a soft, gentle, and endearing expression.
Nose
The nose is broad and typically black, with large nostrils perfect for tracking scents.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
Beagles have a short, dense, and weather-resistant double coat.
Coat Color
The most common color is tricolor (black, tan, and white), but any true hound color is acceptable, including red and white, and lemon and white.
Tail
Their tail is of moderate length, set high, and carried cheerfully, but not curled over the back. The white tip is a characteristic feature of the breed.
Beagle Temperament
Beagles are known for their merry personality and are often described as 'a nose with four legs'. Their cheerful and outgoing nature makes them a joy to be around.
Bred as pack hounds, they enjoy the company of other dogs and people. They are generally good-natured and gentle, making them excellent family companions.
Their strong hunting instincts mean they can be single-minded and determined when they catch a scent, which can sometimes be perceived as stubbornness.
Beagles are intelligent but can be challenging to train due to their independent nature and distractibility by smells. Positive reinforcement with treats and patience is key.
They are known for their distinctive 'baying' bark, which they use when they are on a scent or want to alert their owners to something.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Beagles are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 10-15 years. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help ensure a long and happy life.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular vet visits, maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and a balanced diet.
How to Care for a Beagle
Beagles are relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming but have high energy levels and require consistent training. Their love for food means their diet needs to be carefully managed to prevent obesity.
Grooming
Beagles have a smooth, dense coat that sheds moderately year-round. Weekly brushing with a medium-bristle brush or a hound glove will help remove loose hair and keep their coat healthy.
They don't require frequent bathing unless they get into something particularly messy.
Their long, floppy ears can trap moisture and debris, making them prone to ear infections. It's important to check and clean their ears regularly.
Nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.
Training
Beagles are intelligent but can be difficult to train due to their independent nature and strong sense of smell, which can be distracting.
Early socialization and puppy training classes are highly recommended. Consistent and patient training using positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, works best.
House training can sometimes be a challenge, so a consistent schedule is important.
Recall training is crucial due to their instinct to follow scents.
Diet
A Beagle's diet should consist of high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.
They are prone to obesity, so it's essential to measure their food and not overfeed them. Avoid leaving food out all day.
Fresh, clean water should be available at all times.
Exercise
Beagles are energetic dogs that require at least an hour of exercise every day. This should include walks and opportunities to run and play in a securely fenced area.
They have a strong instinct to roam and follow scents, so they should always be on a leash when not in a fenced area.
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Scent work, puzzle toys, and interactive games can help keep their minds engaged.
Environment
Beagles can adapt to various living situations, including apartments, as long as they get enough daily exercise.
A home with a securely fenced yard is ideal to allow them to run and play safely.
They are social dogs and do best in a home where they are part of the family and not left alone for long periods.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
Can adapt to apartment living with enough exercise, but a house with a fenced yard is ideal.
Climate Adaptability
Adaptable to most climates but needs protection from extreme weather.
Apartment Living
Can be suitable for apartments if their high exercise needs are met.
Best Suited For
Best suited for active individuals or families who can provide plenty of attention and exercise.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Beagles good with children?
Yes, Beagles are typically excellent with children due to their gentle and playful nature.
How much do Beagles shed?
Beagles shed moderately year-round, with some increase during seasonal changes.
How much exercise do Beagles need?
Beagles require at least an hour of exercise per day to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
Are Beagles easy to train?
Beagles can be challenging to train due to their independent nature and distractibility. They require patience and consistency.
Do Beagles bark a lot?
Yes, Beagles are known for being vocal and have a distinctive baying bark.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early socialization, consistent training, and proper nutrition are key for a well-behaved adult Beagle.
Senior Care
Adjusted exercise routines, regular vet check-ups, and a diet tailored for senior dogs.
First-Time Owner Tips
Can be a good choice for first-time owners who are prepared for their training challenges and high energy levels.
Looking for a Beagle?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.