Beagle
Hound Group (AKC), Hound Group (UKC), Gundog Group (The Kennel Club) · United Kingdom — Small scenthounds of this type existed in England for centuries, but the modern Beagle was refined in the 1830s for hunting hare (beagling). · Small to Medium
Also known as: English Beagle
Breed Group
Hound Group (AKC), Hound Group (UKC), Gundog Group (The Kennel Club)
Size
Small to Medium
Height
Under 13 inches or 13-15 inches at the shoulder.
Weight
20-30 lbs (13-15 inch variety), under 20 lbs (under 13 inch variety).
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Origin
United Kingdom — Small scenthounds of this type existed in England for centuries, but the modern Beagle was refined in the 1830s for hunting hare (beagling).
Energy Level
High - Energetic and inquisitive, they require consistent activity to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Trainability
Moderate - Very food-motivated but easily distracted by scents. They require patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement.
Description
The Beagle is a sturdy, compact scenthound with a 'merry' personality. They possess a soft, pleading expression with large brown or hazel eyes and long, low-set ears. Their body is muscular and balanced, built for the endurance required for long hunts.
Key Features
Square muzzle, long pendant ears reaching the tip of the nose, a white-tipped tail (the 'flag') used for visibility during hunts, and a large black nose.
Coat Type
Short, dense, weather-resistant double coat with a smooth texture; moderate shedding year-round.
Coat Colors
Commonly tricolor (black, white, and tan) or bicolor (lemon and white, red and white). The dog in the image exhibits a tan/lemon and white pattern with a white blaze.
Temperament
Friendly, curious, merry, and outgoing. They are social pack animals but can be stubborn and easily led by their noses.
Good with Children
Excellent - Known for being patient and tolerant, making them one of the most popular family dogs.
Good with Other Dogs
Excellent - As pack animals, they generally enjoy the company of other dogs and social environments.
Grooming Needs
Low - Occasional brushing with a hound glove to remove loose hair, regular ear cleaning due to the long drop-ear shape, and nail trims.
Exercise Requirements
High - At least an hour of daily activity including long walks and sniffing opportunities. Secure fencing is a must as they follow trails.
Health Considerations
Prone to Hip Dysplasia, Epilepsy, Cherry Eye, Hypothyroidism, and luxating patellas. Obesity is a major risk if diet is not managed.
Living Conditions
Adaptable to apartments if exercised regularly, but prefer a yard. They are vocal dogs known for 'baying' or howling, which may affect neighbors.
History & Origin
Developed in 11th-century England and later refined for 'foot-beagling'—hunting small game where the hunters followed on foot rather than on horseback. The breed was officially recognized by the AKC in 1885.
Interesting Facts
The most famous Beagle in the world is Snoopy from the Peanuts comic strip. Beagles have over 220 million scent receptors, making them elite scent-detection dogs used in airports.
Similar Breeds
American Foxhound (significantly larger and taller), Basset Hound (much shorter legs and heavier bone), Harrier (larger and more heavy-set).