Beagle
Also known as: English Beagle
Weight
20-30 lbs
Height
13-15 inches
Lifespan
12-15 years
Origin
England
Temperament
The Beagle is a small hound bred primarily for hunting hare.
Dietary Considerations
- •Food motivated - watch portions
- •Prone to obesity
- •Benefits from high-quality protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Beagle
Do Beagles bark a lot?
Yes, Beagles are very vocal dogs. They have three distinct vocalizations: a bark, a bay (howl), and a yodel. They were bred to bark while hunting, so vocalization is deeply ingrained. Training can help manage excessive barking.
Are Beagles good family dogs?
Yes, Beagles are excellent family dogs. They are friendly, curious, and great with children. Their pack mentality means they love being part of a family and get along well with everyone.
Do Beagles shed a lot?
Beagles are moderate to heavy shedders. They have a double coat that sheds year-round, with heavier shedding in spring. Weekly brushing helps manage shedding.
Are Beagles easy to train?
Beagles can be challenging to train due to their stubborn streak and scent-driven focus. They are easily distracted by smells. Positive reinforcement with food rewards works best, but patience is needed.
How much exercise does a Beagle need?
Beagles need 1-2 hours of exercise daily. They are energetic scent hounds that love walks, sniffing, and exploring. Without enough exercise, they can become destructive.
Why do Beagles follow their nose?
Beagles have approximately 220 million scent receptors (compared to humans 5 million). They were bred to track rabbits and hares. Their nose is their dominant sense and they cannot resist following interesting scents.
What health problems do Beagles have?
Common issues include obesity (they love food), ear infections, allergies, hypothyroidism, and cherry eye. Their long ears trap moisture, making ear infections common. Regular vet checkups are important.
How long do Beagles live?
Beagles typically live 12-15 years. They are a generally healthy breed with a good lifespan for their size.
Can Beagles be left alone?
Beagles do not do well when left alone for long periods. They are pack animals and can develop separation anxiety. They may bark, howl, or become destructive if left alone too long.
Are Beagles good with other dogs?
Yes, Beagles are very social and typically get along well with other dogs. They were bred to hunt in packs, so they enjoy canine companionship.
Can Beagles live in apartments?
Beagles can live in apartments if given sufficient exercise, but their barking and howling can be problematic for neighbors. They are active dogs that need regular outdoor activity.
Are Beagles hypoallergenic?
No, Beagles are not hypoallergenic. They shed regularly and produce dander that can trigger allergies.
Why does my Beagle eat so much?
Beagles are notoriously food-driven and will eat anything. This trait made them good scent hounds but also makes them prone to obesity. Portion control and avoiding free-feeding is essential.
How big do Beagles get?
There are two Beagle varieties: 13-inch (under 20 lbs) and 15-inch (20-30 lbs). Both are compact, muscular dogs.
Are Beagles good for first-time owners?
Beagles can be good for first-time owners who are patient with training. They are friendly and loving but can be stubborn. Be prepared for their vocalization and scent-driven distractions.