The Beagle: Your Truthful And Essential Guide To Owning A Beagle

Known for their amiable nature and distinctive howls, Beagles have a rich history that spans from fox hunting companions to modern-day family pets. Their small size and expressive faces make them a popular choice for many households.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about owning a Beagle, from their suitability as house dogs to their grooming needs and common health issues. Our expert, AKC Judge Steven Cabral, who has been showing and judging Beagles for about seventeen years, offers invaluable insights into this breed. Steven describes Beagles as “great pets, full of energy and somewhat mischievous,” likening them to a “two or three-year-old running around the house.” Their keen sense of smell and pack-oriented nature make them both a delightful and demanding companion.

Whether you’re considering adding a Beagle to your family or just curious about this lively breed, our guide will cover the essential aspects of Beagle care, including tips on training, exercise, and maintaining their health. Join us as we explore the delightful complexities of living with a Beagle, a dog that is sure to bring laughter and a bit of harmless mischief into your life.

Living Indoors 

While Beagles adapt well to indoor living, they come with a curious and mischievous streak. Cabral notes, “Beagles can get into a lot of trouble because of how much they use their nose.” This trait means you’ll need to be vigilant about keeping food and trash secure to avoid any unwanted scavenging. It’s like having a “two or three-year-old running around the house,” so preparing your space for their curious nature is key.

Vocal Personalities 

One charming yet challenging aspect of Beagles is their vocal nature. “The Beagle is just pure comedy. It is a dog that… will do its own thing whether you’re there or not,” says Cabral. This includes a variety of vocalizations, from barks to howls, especially when they find something exciting or want to alert you. 

This aspect of Beagle dog breed behavior might be a consideration for apartment dwellers or homes where noise is a concern.

Activity Needs 

Despite their small size, Beagles need plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Cabral advises keeping them engaged with puzzle toys and regular play, which helps manage their energy and curb any destructive behaviors. “When they’re ready they will cuddle with you and join the family and have a lot of fun. But they like to get into things,” he adds, highlighting their need for interaction and activity.

The Bottom Line 

Beagles make fantastic house and family dogs if you appreciate their vibrant personality and can meet their exercise and mental stimulation needs. They bring a blend of joy, energy, and a bit of mischief to your home, making every day a little brighter and more entertaining. With proper training and plenty of love, a Beagle will be a delightful addition to any family.

Beagle Temperament with Children and Other Pets

Beagles are not just dogs; they’re part of the family and Ideal Family Pets. Their playful and forgiving nature makes them an ideal choice for families with children. Steven praises their adaptability, saying, “Beagles are great pets. They’re such a family dog.” Their size and gentle demeanor make them safe and enjoyable playmates for children.

Social Butterflies 

One of the most admirable traits of Beagles is their ability to get along with other dogs. Cabral notes, “They get along with pretty much any breed of dog.” This is because Beagles are pack animals by nature, which means they thrive in the company of other dogs and consider their human family members part of their pack as well.

Interaction with Children 

When it comes to children, Beagles are patient and sturdy enough to handle the playful roughhousing of younger kids. However, like with all breeds, interactions between dogs and young children should always be supervised to ensure safety for both the child and the dog. 

Living with Other Pets 

Beagles are typically non-aggressive and friendly, which extends to their interactions with other household pets. Their hunting instincts may drive them to chase smaller animals, but with proper introduction and training, they can coexist peacefully. Cabral remarks on their adaptability, “They consider their families to be their packs.” 

A Note on Temperament 

While they are naturally friendly and outgoing, Beagles are also known for their independent streak. As Cabral puts it, “Beagles will do what a Beagle wants to do.” This can sometimes translate to selective listening, especially if they catch an interesting scent. Training them to respond to commands consistently is crucial, especially in households with other pets and children.

Physical Appearance of Beagles

Beagles are compact and sturdy dogs known for their keen hunting ability and friendly demeanor. Their appearance is reminiscent of the larger Foxhound but in a smaller frame, characterized by a sturdy build that belies their size. Here’s a closer look at the specific physical traits of the Beagle.

How Big Are Beagles?

Beagles come in two size varieties which are not distinctly separate breeds but rather size variations:

• Pocket Beagle: Historically used for hunting due to their small size, modern Pocket Beagles are less common but are recognized for their convenience in size. They typically stand under 13 inches (33 cm) tall.
• Standard Beagle: the standard Beagle sizes are up to 13 inches (33 cm) and those over 13 inches but under 15 inches (38 cm). The larger variety usually weighs between 20 to 30 pounds (9 to 13.6 kg), making them a versatile size for various activities without being too cumbersome.

Coat and Color

The Beagle’s coat is one of its defining features, being close, hard, and of medium length, suitable for a hound that spends a lot of time outdoors. The coat is designed to be weather-resistant to some extent, which helps in hunting and outdoor activities.

Beagles possess a wide range of colors, with any true hound color being acceptable. Common colorations include tricolor (black, white, and tan), red and white, and lemon. Unique variations such as the Chocolate Beagle and Lilac Beagle offer beautiful and distinct looks, which can be seen in more detail here for Chocolate Beagle and here for Lilac Beagle.

General Appearance

Beagles are often described as miniature Foxhounds, exuding a solid and robust frame for their size. The breed standard highlights their “wear-and-tear” look, which underscores their capability and resilience in the hunt, yet their demeanor and expression convey a friendly and eager personality.

Fun Fact: The Beagle tail’s appearance is a hallmark of the breed, often having a white tip, which serves as a visible signal in tall grass during hunting activities.

Is the Beagle High Maintenance?

In general, the Beagle is quite a low-maintenance breed compared to most other dogs. Here is an overview of their needs and care:

Grooming Requirements 

Despite their adorable appearance, Beagles are relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their short coat does shed year-round but can be easily managed with regular brushing. “A weekly brushing session with a Furminator will keep the shedding under control, especially during shedding seasons,” is a practical tip for Beagle owners. While they are not hypoallergenic and might not be the best choice for allergy sufferers, their grooming routine is straightforward.

Beagles don’t require frequent baths; they can typically go a few months between washes unless they find something particularly messy to roll in. However, attention should be given to their ears and nails. Their long, floppy ears can trap dirt and moisture, which can lead to infections if not cleaned regularly. Similarly, their nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

Health Maintenance 

Aside from grooming, Beagles may require their anal glands to be expressed periodically. This is a common issue with many dog breeds and can usually be handled by your vet or groomer during regular visits.

Emotional and Social Needs 

While Beagles may be low maintenance in terms of grooming, they do have considerable social and emotional needs. As pack animals, they thrive on companionship and do not like to be left alone for long periods. “Beagles are pack dogs and prefer to be part of the family,” our expert Steven Cabral points out, emphasizing their need for social interaction. They generally excel in a multi-dog household where they can interact and play with other dogs.

Physical and Mental Stimulation 

Beagles are known for their high energy and intelligence. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them from becoming bored and potentially destructive. This breed loves to follow scents and explore, so activities that stimulate their keen sense of smell, like scent games or tracking exercises, are particularly beneficial.

In conclusion, while Beagles are not high maintenance in the grooming department, they do require a significant amount of emotional engagement and physical activity. They make excellent family pets in active households where they can be part of daily activities and enjoy the company of other dogs or people.

Is the Beagle Safe?

Beagles are generally considered one of the safest dog breeds, especially suitable for families due to their friendly and tolerant nature. They are known for their good temperament and rarely display aggressive behavior. Good early socialization will also help ensure a safe and outgoing Beagle.

However, like any dog, Beagles can become irritable as they age, particularly if they develop conditions such as arthritis or cognitive issues like doggy dementia. These health issues can lead to discomfort, which might make them snappier than usual. 

Pros and Cons of Beagles

Here’s a table that outlines the pros and cons of owning a Beagle to help you decide if a this dog breed is right for you.

Do Beagles Have Health Problems?

Beagles are generally a robust breed, but like all dogs, they have certain health predispositions that prospective owners should be aware of. Here, we explore some of the common health issues found in Beagles, their typical lifespan, and what you can do to ensure your Beagle lives a happy, healthy life.

How Long Do Beagles Live?

Beagles typically enjoy a long lifespan, averaging around 13.3 years. This statistic reflects the breed’s general good health and resilience.

Common Health Issues in Beagles

For a detailed exploration of Beagle health issues, Dr. Alex Gough’s book is an invaluable resource. Below are some conditions that are considered true breed predispositions.

Cardiovascular Conditions

• Mitral Valve Disease: A significant number of Beagles are found to have murmurs from mitral valve disease, detectable through advanced veterinary screening.

Dermatological Conditions

• Familial Vasculopathy: Beagles can suffer from this early-onset skin condition, which typically starts showing between 4 to 10 months of age.

Endocrine Conditions

• Diabetes Mellitus: Beagles show a higher incidence rate of diabetes than mixed breeds.
• Hypoadrenocorticism and Hyperadrenocorticism: Both conditions are notably common in Beagles, affecting their adrenal glands.

Gastrointestinal Conditions

• Selective Malabsorption of Vitamin B12: This condition, suspected to be inherited, affects Beagles more than other breeds.

Haematological/Immunological Conditions

• Factor VII Deficiency: This is a well-documented condition in Beagles, showing a dominant inheritance pattern.
• Haemophilia A: Severe factor VIII deficiency is familial in Beagles.

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Beagles are particularly prone to this condition, especially affecting the cervical intervertebral discs.

Neoplastic Conditions

• Osteosarcoma and Other Tumors: Beagles are at an increased risk for various types of tumors, including bone and thyroid neoplasias.

Neurological Conditions

• Idiopathic Epilepsy: This condition has been notably reported in Beagle colonies.
• Meningitis and Polyarteritis: Also known as Beagle Pain Syndrome, this condition is responsive to steroids and believed to be genetic.

Ocular Conditions

• Glaucoma and Cataracts: Beagles are predisposed to certain eye conditions that can affect their vision if not treated.

Renal and Urinary Conditions

• Renal Amyloidosis and Dysplasia: These conditions are more prevalent in Beagles, especially in older dogs and certain familial lines.

Understanding these health issues can help prospective and current Beagle owners prepare for and manage their pet’s health effectively. Regular veterinary check-ups and being aware of the early signs of these conditions can significantly enhance the quality of life for a Beagle.

Beagle Dog Price and Costs of Keeping a Beagle

Let’s look at how much a Beagle dog or puppy will cost you.

How Much Does a Beagle Puppy Cost?

The initial cost of purchasing a Beagle puppy can vary widely depending on the breeder’s reputation, location, and the puppy’s lineage. Typically, prices for Beagle puppies from reputable breeders range from $1,000 to $2,500. It’s essential to choose a breeder who follows ethical breeding practices. The National Beagle Club of America is a reliable resource for finding reputable breeders.

Price Range and Breeder Examples

Here’s a quick overview of some breeders and their pricing for Beagle puppies:

Additionally, Beagles are the breed most used in drug studies, and if you’re interested in rescuing a Beagle from a laboratory setting, the Beagle Freedom Project offers opportunities to adopt Beagles who have been retired from research labs.

Ongoing Costs

Keeping a Beagle involves several ongoing costs that potential owners should consider:

Food

Beagles are active dogs but prone to obesity, so high-quality, well-balanced dog food is essential. Expect to spend about $20-$40 per month on dog food, depending on the brand and your dog’s size and energy level.

Health Care

Routine veterinary care for vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and occasional health issues can average $200-$500 annually. Beagles may also require additional costs for genetic health issues such as hip dysplasia or epilepsy.

Grooming

Beagles are relatively low maintenance regarding grooming. They require occasional baths and weekly brushing. However, they are prone to ear infections, so regular ear cleaning is necessary. Basic grooming supplies and occasional professional grooming sessions can cost around $30-$50 per month.

Miscellaneous 

Other costs include toys, treats, bedding, and potentially larger expenses like boarding or daycare if you travel frequently or work long hours.

Overall, while Beagles are relatively inexpensive to purchase compared to some other breeds, their ongoing care costs are typical for dogs their size. When budgeting for a dog, it’s crucial to consider both the initial outlay and the ongoing expenses to ensure you can provide a caring and stable home for your new pet

Training a Beagle: Intelligence Level and Trainability

While Beagles are highly intelligent dogs with strong emotional, social, instinctive, and adaptive intelligence, they can present some challenges during training. Famed psychologist Dr. Stanley Coren ranked Beagles at 131 out of 138  in terms of obedience intelligence compared to other dog breeds, as discussed in his book, “The Intelligence of Dogs“. This ranking reflects their independent nature, which can often be perceived as stubbornness.

Trainability and Effective Training Methods

Beagles are incredibly sociable and generally eager to please, but their strong sense of smell and inherent curiosity can sometimes lead to distractions during training sessions. As Steven Cabral, an AKC judge with extensive experience handling Beagles, notes, “Beagles are trainable, but it just requires patience and consistency. They will express themselves by doing what they want to do, figuring things out on their own. They’re very independent.”

Tips for Training Beagles

Here are some effective training tips for Beagles, taking into account their specific breed characteristics:

Consistency is Key 

Due to their somewhat mischievous nature, consistent training from a young age is crucial. Establishing a routine and sticking to it helps Beagles understand what is expected of them.

Short and Engaging Sessions

Beagles have a lot of energy but limited attention spans. Training sessions should be short, fun, and engaging to keep them interested. Using games and activities that involve sniffing and searching can make training more appealing to their natural instincts.

Positive Reinforcement

Beagles respond well to positive reinforcement techniques. Rewards, whether treats, play, or verbal praise, should be immediate and linked directly to the desired behavior to reinforce their actions effectively.

Deal with Stubbornness Creatively

If a Beagle seems stubborn, it’s often because they’re either bored or not properly motivated. Finding the right incentives, such as favorite treats or toys, can help overcome this stubbornness.

Leash Training

Given their strong prey drive and tendency to follow their noses, leash training is essential for Beagles. Start leash training early to prevent them from pulling or becoming uncontrollable when they catch a scent.

Steven Cabral’s perspective on Beagles sheds light on their unique traits: “They’re like having a two or three-year-old running around the house. Beagles can get into a lot of trouble because of how much they use their nose. Their heads will be down on the ground, smelling things, looking for things.”

If you want proof of how quickly Beagles will get into trouble and figure things out on their own, just see this video of what a Beagle does when home alone:

Exercise Needs of Beagles

Beagles are energetic and lively dogs that require regular exercise to maintain their health and happiness. Due to their breeding as hunting dogs, they have high stamina and enjoy activities that engage both their bodies and their keen sense of smell.

Daily Exercise Requirements

Regular exercise is essential for Beagles to prevent boredom and behavioral issues such as excessive barking or digging. A daily routine should include:

• Adults and Puppies: At least one hour of physical activity each day. This can be split into two sessions of 30 minutes each.
• Seniors: The exercise needs of senior Beagles decrease slightly; however, they still require regular, moderate activity to maintain joint health and mobility. Shorter, more frequent walks are beneficial for older dogs.

Types of Activities Suitable for Beagles

Beagles thrive on variety and enjoy different types of physical and mental stimulation:

• Walking and Hiking: Due to their excellent tracking abilities, Beagles love hiking and walking in nature where they can explore different scents. Always keep them on a leash unless in a secure, fenced area, as they might follow a scent and ignore recall commands.
• Playtime: Interactive games like fetch, tug-of-war, or hide-and-seek tap into the Beagle’s playful nature and provide both physical and mental exercise.
• Scent Work: Engaging their sense of smell through scent work or tracking games can be particularly satisfying and tiring for Beagles. Activities like hiding treats around the house or garden and allowing them to sniff them out can be great fun.
• Agility Training: Beagles are agile and often excel at agility courses which provide mental and physical challenges.
• Socialization Activities: Group walks or playdates with other dogs can be beneficial, especially since Beagles are pack animals and enjoy the company of other dogs.

Exercise Tips for Puppies, Adults, and Seniors

• Puppies: Begin with gentle play and short walks, gradually increasing the duration as they grow. Avoid strenuous activities that could harm their developing joints.
• Adults: Adult Beagles can handle more vigorous and extended activities. They enjoy challenges and may benefit from structured activities like agility or advanced obedience training.
• Seniors: Keep exercises low-impact to protect their joints. Swimming can be an excellent option for older Beagles as it provides a full-body workout without straining the joints.

Proper exercise is crucial for a Beagle’s physical health and mental well-being. Adjusting the type and amount of activity as they age will help keep your Beagle happy and healthy throughout their life stages.

Beagle Dietary Needs

Beagles, like all dogs, have specific dietary requirements that vary with their age, activity level, and health status. Understanding these needs can help you maintain your Beagle’s health and vitality throughout their life stages.

Nutritional Requirements

Beagles are energetic and playful, requiring a balanced diet rich in proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Key nutrients such as taurine, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants like vitamin E are crucial for their overall health. These elements support cardiovascular health, which is particularly important given the Beagle’s predisposition to conditions like Mitral Valve disease. Incorporating MCT oil can also benefit heart function and energy metabolism.

Recommended Diet Types and Feeding Schedule

Puppies

Beagle puppies need a high-energy diet that supports their rapid growth and development. Puppy food should be rich in DHA for brain development and have a balanced calcium to phosphorus ratio to ensure proper bone growth. Feed them three to four small meals per day.

Adults

As adults, Beagles require a well-balanced diet that maintains their energy levels but prevents obesity — a common problem in the breed. An adult Beagle’s diet should include lean proteins, healthy fats, and limited carbohydrates to manage weight. Typically, two meals per day are adequate.

Seniors

Senior Beagles benefit from diets lower in calories but rich in fiber to help maintain digestive health. Increased omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin sulfate can help manage arthritis and other age-related issues. Seniors should continue to have two smaller meals per day, adjusted for lower energy expenditure.

Focus Areas for Beagle Diets

Obesity Prevention

Beagles love to eat and are prone to obesity. Monitoring calorie intake and providing regular exercise is key. Treats should be given sparingly and not comprise more than 10% of their daily caloric intake.

Mitral Valve Disease Management

Diets enhanced with MCT oil, taurine, and omega-3 fatty acids can support heart health. MCT oil is particularly beneficial for energy metabolism without straining the heart.

Optimal Diet for Health Issues

Beagles used extensively in medical research may show breed-specific predispositions to certain ailments. A diet formulated to support specific health needs, such as hypoallergenic ingredients or kidney support formulas, may be recommended based on individual health assessments.

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining a Beagle’s health and happiness. By providing a balanced diet tailored to their life stage and health needs, you can help your Beagle thrive and minimize potential health issues. Always consult with a veterinarian to tailor dietary choices to your specific Beagle’s health profile.

Common Behavioral Issues in Beagles

Beagles are known for their friendly and curious nature, but they can also exhibit some challenging behaviors if not properly managed. Here’s a look at some common issues and how to address them, incorporating insights from our Beagle expert, Steven Cabral.

Howling and Barking

Beagles are vocal dogs, often using their howl to communicate. 

Steven Cabral notes, “Beagles can get into a lot of trouble because of how much they use their nose. If you let them out, their head will be down on the ground, smelling things, looking for things. Because of their keen sense of smell, they will go in and out through bushes, in and out through rocks, just hunting, looking, and trying to find things.” 

This intense sniffing behavior often leads to loud vocalizations, especially if they pick up an interesting scent.

Managing Howling

• Provide Mental Stimulation

Regularly engage your Beagle in scent games or tracking activities to channel their sniffing behavior productively.

• Regular Exercise

Adequate physical activity can help mitigate excessive barking and howling by using up the energy that might otherwise be directed towards these vocal expressions.

• Obedience Training

Teach commands like “quiet” in a positive reinforcement-based training session to help control vocal outbursts.

Escaping and Roaming

The same keen sense of smell that leads to howling can also cause Beagles to become escape artists. They often follow their noses, which can lead them away from safety if given the opportunity. As Cabral explains, “This means if you let them off leash at the dog park, they are the breed most likely to take off after an interesting smell and completely ignore you when you call them.”

Preventing Escapes

• Secure Environment – Ensure your yard is securely fenced, with attention to any gaps or weak points where a Beagle could squeeze through.
• Leash Training – Always keep your Beagle on a leash in unsecured areas. Practice recall regularly in safe, enclosed spaces.
• Supervision –  Never leave a Beagle unattended outdoors. Their instinct to explore can lead them into dangerous situations or cause them to stray far from home.

Understanding and addressing these common behavioral issues in Beagles will help ensure they remain safe and well-behaved companions. Regular training, adequate exercise, and appropriate mental stimulation are key to managing the innate traits of this curious and energetic breed.

Where to Get a Beagle

Choosing the right Beagle involves considering whether to adopt or purchase from a reputable breeder. Each option has its own process and considerations:

Reputable Beagle Breeders

To ensure you’re getting a healthy, well-bred Beagle, it’s crucial to find a reputable breeder:

• National Beagle Club of America: This organization provides resources for prospective Beagle owners and lists ethical breeders committed to the health and well-being of Beagles.
• AKC Marketplace: A reliable resource for finding AKC-registered litters. This platform lists breeders who meet specific health and ethical standards.
• Visit and Verify: When possible, visit the breeder’s facility. Observe the living conditions of the dogs and meet the puppy’s parents to get insights into their health and temperament.

Adoption Options

Adopting a Beagle can be a rewarding way to give a dog a second chance at a loving home:

• Beagle Rescue Organizations: Groups like the Beagle Freedom Project specialize in rescuing and rehoming Beagles, particularly those retired from laboratory settings.
• Local Shelters and Rescues: Beagles are a popular breed and can often be found in local animal shelters or breed-specific rescues.

Choosing the Right Beagle

• Consider Your Living Space: Pocket Beagles are an option for those with smaller living spaces. They are smaller than the standard Beagle but share the same lively and loving nature.
• Assess Your Lifestyle: Beagles are active

Conclusion: Is a Beagle Right for You?

Deciding if a Beagle is the right dog for your home comes down to understanding and appreciating their unique characteristics. These joyful and friendly dogs fit well into various family dynamics and are particularly great with children, thriving in an environment where they can be part of a pack — whether it’s with humans or other dogs. Their moderate grooming needs and manageable size make them a good candidate for many homes, though potential owners should be mindful of their strong instinct to follow their noses and their need for secure environments to prevent wandering.

Beagles are not just companions but bring laughter and lightness with their curious and sometimes mischievous behavior. If you’re prepared for a bit of training challenge and are looking for a dog with personality and charm, a Beagle could be the perfect addition to your family. Remember, whether you choose to go through a reputable breeder or adopt from a rescue, the joy a Beagle brings to your home can be immense, as long as you’re ready to meet their needs for exercise, companionship, and love.

Meet Your Experts

Tamsin De La Harpe

Author

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.