Beagle
Great Britain, Scent hounds
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 33–41 cm
- Weight
- 9–14 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Merry
- Friendly
- Curious
- Food-motivated
- Stubborn
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Beagle
The Beagle is a small to medium scent hound from Great Britain, developed to hunt hare in packs by following scent. It is sturdy and compact, with a short, weatherproof coat, long drop ears and a broad head. Its sense of smell is excellent, and it is now widely kept as a family pet as well as a working dog.
Temperament
Friendly, merry and sociable, usually good with children and other dogs. Strongly scent-driven and persistent, with a loud baying voice. Often food-motivated and can be stubborn.
Exercise
Needs about an hour or more of daily activity, with chances to sniff. Keep on lead or in a secure area as it follows scent.
Grooming
Short coat sheds. Brush weekly. Check ears, and clean as needed.
Care & wellbeing
The Beagle's appetite is famous and it will scavenge anything it finds, so weigh meals, store food out of reach and use part of the daily ration for training. Its long ears can hold damp, so dry them after baths.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 11.5 kg adult- Water
- 460 ml–690 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 700 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Beagle
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A small British scent hound developed for hunting hare in packs, with roots going back several centuries. Merry, curious and driven by scent, it is sociable and a popular family dog, but its nose can lead it astray and it needs secure fencing.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Epilepsy
- Ear infections
- Hypothyroidism
- Intervertebral disc disease
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Eye tests
- Hip scores
- Thyroid test
Not every Beagle is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Beagle right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- This is your first dog — an independent breed can be a challenge to train
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Beagle get?
Adult Beagles typically stand about 33–41 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 9–14 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Beagles live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Beagle need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Beagle need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Beagles easy to train?
Often independent-minded, so training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards.
Do Beagles shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Beagles good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Beagle live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Beagles have?
The breed can be prone to epilepsy, ear infections, hypothyroidism. Not every Beagle is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Scent hounds
- Internationally recognised
- 1955