Beagle

Life Expectancy:  12 – 15 years
Dog Breed Group: Herding  Dogs
Weight:  20 – 30 lbs.
Height: 12 – 20 inches

Where Do Beagles Rank?

See where this beloved breed ranks in comparison to other breeds in 7 key categories.

Trainability

The Beagle may prove more difficult to train than other breeds; however, with a stern training method, they learn quickly.

Shedding Friendliness

The Beagle is not a heavy shedder.

Ease of Grooming

The Beagle is a low-maintenance breed that does not require a significant amount of grooming.

Health

Beagles don’t suffer from significant health risks like large breed dogs do, but this smaller breed does have a propensity for obesity, cherry eyes, dwarfism and more.

Exercise Needs

Your Beagle will need a minimum of 60 minutes of vigorous activity each day to remain healthy mentally and physically.

Good with Children

Beagles are good with children and quickly become part of the family.

Barking Restraint

Barking and howling is the largest problem found with this breed. Their excessive barking can prove to be overwhelming at times.

What You Need to Know About Beagles

Behavior

The Beagle is a common pet among households in the United States. The Beagle is known for his social, energetic behavior. The Beagle is also known to be extremely playful and affectionate.

Beagles were originally bred to become hunting dogs and, as such, they enjoy roaming and searching for anything of interest. They are also known for their extreme sense of adventure. If you are looking for a dog to explore the wilderness with, this may be the breed for you.

The Beagle is also very good with children. They are known to be extremely affectionate with their family. Once they have exercised for the day, they enjoy spending time with their family in the comfort of their home.

As your Beagle ages, he may become lazier and prefer cuddling on the couch rather than being active at all times. Once your Beagle reaches this point, it is crucial to monitor his food and snack intake to ensure he does not become obese. Obesity has the potential to cause many health problems in this breed.

Training

The Beagle is known to be extremely stubborn and may be more difficult to train in comparison to other breeds. Throughout training, it is necessary to be assertive and confirm your position as pack leader for training to be successful.

Grooming

The Beagle needs minimal grooming. Their grooming routine involves ear cleaning and a weekly brushing.

Health Problems

Obesity – The Beagle is a breed which easily becomes obese. Free-feeding should often not be permitted with this breed to avoid overeating. You should also limit their treats to ensure they remain at a healthy weight.

Hip Dysplasia – The Beagle is prone to this genetic condition. Signs of hip dysplasia include lameness in one or both legs and/or signs of discomfort.

Cherry Eye – The Beagle is known to exhibit cherry eye. Cherry eye results from the protrusion of the third eyelid in the corner of one or both eyes.

Dwarfism – The Beagle is known for dwarfism where they are much smaller than normal. Their body and/or legs may be shorter than other beagles.

Top 10 Most Common Health Issues for Beagles

1. Otitis – middle ear infection
2. UTI – urinary tract infection
3. Periodontal Disease – infections of the structures around the teeth, which include the gums, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone
4. Gastritis – inflammation, irritation, or erosion of the stomach lining
5. Mass
6. Allergies
7. Dermatitis – inflammation of the skin
8. Intervertebral Disc Disease – the cushioning discs between the vertebrae of the spinal column either bulge or burst
9. Conjunctivitis – pink eye
10. Gastroenteritis – inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract