All breeds › Beagle
Beagle
A small scent hound with a famously keen nose, bred to track hare in packs.
♥ Swipe on the BeagleQuick facts
- Origin
- England
- Size
- Small
- Energy
- High
- Bred for
- Hare hunting
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Temperament
- Merry, curious, friendly
- Exercise
- 60 min/day
- Grooming
- Low
- Shedding
- Medium
- Training
- Challenging
- With children
- Great
- Apartment
- Maybe
Where the Beagle comes from
Small scent hounds like the Beagle have hunted rabbits and hares in England for centuries. Their packs followed hunters on foot, and the breed's nose is still its defining feature.
Personality and daily life
Merry, curious and friendly. Beagles are great with children and other dogs but follow their nose without a care for commands. They bark and howl.
Beagles follow their noses everywhere, so secure fences and a lead are essential. They are sociable, but can be loud and food-driven.
Exercise, grooming and health
An hour of walking daily, with a secure lead and fence. They will eat anything, so manage weight and keep food out of reach. Ear infections, obesity and epilepsy are common.
Is a Beagle right for you?
Active families with a fenced yard. Not ideal for people who want off-lead freedom or quiet neighbours.
- Great with children
- Can be stubborn, better for experienced owners
- Easy to groom
Similar breeds
Profiles are general guides. Individual dogs vary, so always meet the dog and talk to a breeder, shelter or vet.