Beagles are perhaps the most American dog breed. These pups play a starring role in classic American books, TV shows, and movies–and for good reason. Today, we’ll dive into what makes this breed so memorable and unique. 

History of the Beagle Dog Breed

The Beagle is a medium-sized dog breed that falls into the hound group. They were originally bred for hunting and tracking small game. In typical hound fashion, Beagles have a keen sense of smell that can track prey even from a great distance. 

The exact origins of the breed are still under debate, but these pups date back to 11th-century England. Many British nobility had hunting hounds that closely resemble the Beagle. The breed made a name for itself in the 1500s because they could easily track rabbits and hares on foot. This made Beagles the ideal companion for hunters without horses. 

The breed made its way to America a few years after the Civil War. Every rabbit hunter wanted a Beagle for fast tracking, efficient hunts, and companionship. Today, you can still find these pups serving as loyal hunting dogs in the southern states. Though some prefer these pups as walking buddies or cuddle companions. 

Size & Physical Traits

The breed standard of a Beagle dog is between 12 to 15 inches tall and 20 to 30 pounds. Most Beagles fall into the medium breed category, but a smaller version is common, too. Don’t underestimate the size of these pups though–their nose is 100 times stronger than a human’s. 

Floppy ears, big brown eyes, and a happy tail are all key identifiers of the breed. Their appearance and personality are often described as “happy-go-lucky.” If you’ve ever seen a Beagle puppy out for a walk, you probably agree it’s a fitting description. 

Another hallmark of the breed is its markings. Most have smooth white coats with tan, brown, or black markings along their head, back, and stomach. 

Do Beagles shed? Yes, these pups shed moderately throughout the year, with heavier shedding in the springtime. Their short double coats can be easily managed with regular brushing and the occasional bath. 

Personality & Temperament

Curious about Beagles’ temperament? These pups have a great balance of playfulness, curiosity, and medium energy levels. They get along well with their humans, young children, and other dogs. 

If you plan to leave your dog home alone all day, a Beagle puppy may not be for you. This breed is very watchful of its surroundings and isn’t afraid to bark. This can be a bad combo for pet parents living in busy areas with lots of noise. 

With obedience training and regular exercise, Beagles can be well-behaved and carefree pups. A lack of mental and physical stimulation may encourage your pup to develop anxiety or behavioral issues. 

Exercise Requirements

These pups need daily exercise and mental stimulation to thrive. Without proper exercise, Beagles can become bored or even destructive. Chewing, howling, and digging are all common signs that your pup is restless. 

Tire your Beagle dog out with dedicated playtime and a brisk daily walk. Plan for about 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity per day. If the weather gets in the way of daily exercise, have a puzzle mat or enrichment toy ready to go. Mental stimulation is just as important as exercise!

How long do Beagles live? 

If you're considering adopting a puppy, we know life expectancy is on your mind. So, how long do Beagles live? The average lifespan of a Beagle dog is around 10 to 15 years.

Obesity, ear infections, epilepsy, and hip dysplasia are the most common health issues in Beagle breed dogs. You can prevent these issues and increase your pup’s longevity with a balanced diet and regular visits to the vet. 

Beagle Puppyhood

If you’ve already brought home your Beagle puppy, there are a few things you can do to raise them right. These pups are curious little explorers with powerful noses that can get them into trouble. But these puppies are also quick learners when they want to be.

Start training and socializing your Beagle puppy as early as possible. Once they have all their vaccinations, you can start group obedience training classes or doggy daycare. Help your pup avoid behavioral issues with puzzle toys and scent mats. Put that powerful nose to use! 

What’s the best Beagle food? 

Beagles are famously food-motivated, which makes training easier and mealtimes a breeze. But since this breed is prone to obesity, it’s essential to feed them a quality diet with real food ingredients. The best Beagle food should have: 

• Real meat (no meat meals or by-products) 
• No corn, soy, or filler ingredients 
• Moderate caloric intake 
• Highly-digestible protein
• Healthy whole grains (avoid grain-free)

Many pet parents choose Sundays for Dogs to meet their pups’ dietary requirements. It’s a good choice because Sundays’ dog food is 100% human-grade and made only with real meat. Sundays recipes are nutritionally balanced with help from fresh fruits, veggies, and whole grains. 

Feeding your Beagle food that’s easy to digest and full of natural flavor goes a long way. Our air-dried dog food supports healthy weight, balanced energy, shinier coats, and easy digestion. Choose from three AAFCO-approved dog food recipes, including All-Natural Chicken, USDA Beef, and All-Natural Turkey. 

Is a Beagle dog the right breed for you? 

With over 200 registered dog breeds, everyone can find the perfect pup for their lifestyle. But how do you know for sure if this breed is right for you? Beagles are ideal for people who: 

• Want a small-to-medium-sized dog with a big personality
• Look forward to daily walks or hiking with their pup 
• Don’t mind a little shedding (and the occasional howl) 
• Have the patience to train a smart but stubborn pup 
• Appreciate a pup with a big appetite and even bigger heart

If this sounds like you, a Beagle dog might just be the perfect fit. If not, check out our list of the best dog breeds. Maybe take a visit to your local animal shelter and see which pups mesh with your personality.