Beagle — breed guide
A cheerful pack hound led entirely by its nose. Wonderful with kids; secure your fence and your snacks.
At a glance
- Group
- hound
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 9–11 kg (20–24 lb)
- Life span
- 10–15 years
- Coat
- Short, weatherproof double coat
Living with a Beagle
- High energy — needs real exercise every day, not a stroll.
- Almost no grooming.
- Moderate shedding.
- Can be stubborn.
- Very vocal.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Can live with a cat, with a slow introduction and an escape route for the cat.
- Not well suited to a flat — space, exercise need or voice works against it.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Average heat tolerance.
- Average cold tolerance.
Temperament
Merry · Curious · Friendly · Food-driven
Health to watch
- Obesity
- Epilepsy
- Ear infections
- Hypothyroidism
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Did you know
The USDA’s “Beagle Brigade” sniffs out smuggled produce in airports — and Snoopy is the world’s most famous Beagle.
Questions people ask
Is a Beagle good with kids?
Generally yes. Beagles are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Beagle good with cats?
It can work, with management. Introduce them gradually, feed them apart, and make sure the cat has vertical space the dog cannot reach. Plan to manage it rather than assume it.
How much exercise does a Beagle need?
An hour or more of proper exercise every day.
Can a Beagle handle hot weather?
About average — use normal hot-day sense.
Leash Life keeps a Beagle's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.