Origin: Beagles are scent hounds, developed primarily for tracking hare, rabbit, and other small game.
Temperament: Beagles are a happy go lucky dog. They are a big dog in a little dogs body, getting along with dogs of all sizes (with correct socialization). Being gentle by nature Beagles make perfect family dogs, especially in homes with children.
Height: Coming in two different heights, Under 13” and Over 13” but not exceeding 15”. To be a show or field specimen a beagle MUST NOT exceed 15” as this is a disqualifying factor. In Canadian shows they are all recognized as one size, where as in the USA, they are separated into two varieties.
Weight: Depending on size, a healthy Beagle (on average) can weigh anywhere between 15-30 lbs.
Coat/Grooming: Don’t be fooled by the short hair, they do shed. Brushing weekly with a “hound mitt” or a rubber brush as well as regular baths, will help keep shedding to a minimum. The Beagle’s coarse coat is a bonus when they get muddy/dirty, as most of the dirt falls off as they dry.
Colour: Beagles come in any “true hound” colour. Examples include: Tri colour (black, tan and white), Red and White, Lemon and White, Blue tri colour, etc.
Feeding: Beagles are not a breed that can be “free fed”; their meals need to be closely monitored as most Beagles will eat far more than they need. Good quality kibble or a Raw diet is recommended.
Exercise: Daily exercise is needed with this breed as they have a moderately high energy level. With proper training, some Beagles can be exercised off leash. Having the natural instinct to put their nose to the ground and follow a scent, it is very easy for a beagle to follow its nose until it is lost. It is recommended that beagles are leashed while on walks, runs etc. A fenced yard is mandatory from most breeders.
Training: Easily trainable with patience. Beagles are known to do very well in obedience, rally and agility with their eager to please personalities. Their use as detection dogs is rapidly increasing due to their keen sense of smell.
