Beagle dog portrait

Beagle

A nose with a happy dog attached.

Hound group England Small-Medium
Lifespan10-15 yr
Weight9-14 kg
Height33-41 cm
OriginEngland

The Beagle is a small to medium scent hound with a merry temperament and a world-class nose. Sociable and sturdy, it is a wonderful family dog for owners who can handle its love of a trail.

Great points

  • Cheerful, friendly and great with kids
  • Sturdy and low maintenance coat
  • Sociable with people and dogs
  • Compact but robust

Things to consider

  • Follows its nose and ignores recall
  • Loud bay and howl
  • Stubborn and food obsessed
  • Hates being left alone

The story

Bred in England as a pack scent hound for chasing rabbits, the Beagle's world-class nose now works in airport detection squads, while its musical howl and bottomless appetite keep families thoroughly entertained.

Training

Beagles are smart but independent and easily distracted by scent. Use high-value food rewards, keep a secure yard, and train recall on a long line.

Grooming

The short coat is easy, just a weekly brush. Check and clean the long ears regularly to prevent infections.

Food & diet

About 1 to 1.5 cups a day. Beagles are relentless food thieves, so store food securely and measure every meal.

Exercise

Needs scent-led walks and a securely fenced yard. Once on a trail a Beagle goes deaf to recall.

Health to watch

Obesity, ear infections, epilepsy and disc disease. Keeping them lean and busy prevents many problems.

Fun fact. A Beagle has around 220 million scent receptors, compared with about 5 million in a human nose.

Frequently asked questions

Are Beagles easy to train?
Not especially. Beagles are smart but independent and led by their nose, so training takes patience, high-value treats and a secure space.
Do Beagles bark a lot?
They can be vocal. Beagles bark and howl, especially when bored or left alone, so company and exercise help keep them quiet.
Are Beagles good with kids?
Yes. Beagles are merry, sturdy and sociable, which makes them a classic family dog that enjoys the bustle of children.

Essential gear for the Beagle

A few breed-right basics for a new Beagle.

Crate

24" dog crate

Right-sized for a small dog, cozy not cramped.

View pick
Bed

Small orthopedic bed

Joint support, sized to a small frame.

View pick
Grooming

Grooming brush

Regular brushing for a healthy coat.

View pick
Food

Small-breed formula

Right kibble size and calories.

View pick

These are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes what we recommend.