You may be familiar with standard-sized black, brown, and white beagles, but did you know that there are other types as well?
There are different beagle colors, sizes, and mixes. Learn about the different types of beagles with this article.
Beagles are family-friendly pets who have adorable personalities and lively spirits. Their amicable personality allows them to get along well with children and even other pets. They also come in a variety of colors. While the most common ones are black, brown, and white, you’ll come across some that are lemon yellow, red and white as well as orange and white. Let’s explore the different types of beagles available in the US.
The American Kennel Club recognizes two different types of beagles:
Also known as pocket beagles, this smaller variety loves to have fun. Their relatively smaller size makes them ideal for apartments and homes with less space. They usually weigh around 20 pounds and have a life expectancy of 7 to 9 years.
You’ll always find them goofing around whether with their owners or by themselves. They are very energetic so you’ll need to provide them with plenty of exercise. Regular walks and hikes are required for pocket beagles. But don’t forget to invest in a good quality leash before taking them out – you will need it to keep your Beagle under control.
Though adorable, these pint-sized hounds retain the stubbornness that is innate with the breed. However, it can be easily overcome with training.
Standard-sized beagles with a height of 13 to 15 inches are more common. They have an exceptional sense of smell owing to the fact that they were bred and raised for hunting. These beagles generally have white-tipped tails which make them easy to spot when hunting in tall grass.
Although these dogs are not highly energetic or active, they still need daily exercise. They have a stronger scent, but it isn’t usually strong enough to bother their owners. It’s still best to give them regular baths as necessary.
Due to their curious nature and muscular bodies, they make good watchdogs. They will easily bark or make noises given the slightest provocation. Because of their medium builds, they are not the best guard dogs. However, even if they can’t physically protect you, they are loyal to their owners and love to shower them with attention.
They weigh between 20 to 30 pounds and have a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.
The American Kennel Club recognizes standard-sized beagles and pocket beagles.
Even though the American Kennel Club recognizes only 2 types of beagles, there are many different types of beagles that have sprung up over the years. Let’s take a look at some of these hybrid breeds.
A hybrid between the beagle and the American Eskimo, these dogs have the furry bodies of American Eskimos while retaining the beautiful black, brown, and white markings of beagle coats. They also retain the puppy dog brown eyes that beagles are known for while having shorter, less floppy ears.
Although they are average shedders, their thick double coats should be brushed regularly to prevent the fur from becoming matted and tangled.
American Eagle males can develop a heavy coat around their necks which can resemble manes if not trimmed and brushed regularly.
The sharp eagle is a hybrid between a beagle and a Shar-pei. Characteristics from the Shar-pei parent are more dominant giving these hounds a beautiful black, brown, or tan coat.
They can get bored easily and may even get a little anxious if not given their daily dose of exercise. They are very energetic and playful.
A hybrid between a poodle and a beagle, these dogs are adorable. Small in size, they inherit most of their characteristics from their poodle parent.
They are typically seen with wavy hair and round eyes. They are family-oriented and good with children.
A hybrid between a beagle and a Pekingese, these hounds have silky coats. Peagles are affectionate, caring, loving, smart, and funny.
They love being around their human owners and get along well with other pets.
The labbe is a hybrid between a beagle and a labrador. It is also referred to as beagador, or a labeagle.
Commonly seen in white, brown, black, or tan colors, these dogs inherit the height of their labrador parent while retaining the puppy dog eyes that beagles are known for.
Since both parents are known for their hunting prowess, they make great hunting companions.
A cross between a beagle and a boxer, bogles have strong, muscular bodies. They are low-maintenance dogs that do not demand much attention and time.
All you need to do is brush their coats regularly to prevent shedding.
If you already have a beagle and are curious to know if it is purebred or not, don’t worry. It is a fairly easy job. All you have to do is look at your beagle’s tail. The telltale sign of a purebred beagle is its white-tipped tail. A pure-bred beagle will always have a white tail. If not, it is a mixed breed.
If you want to know if you own a pocket beagle or a standard beagle, measure their height from their shoulders. Pocket beagles are smaller versions of beagles. In many respects, they are carbon copies of standard beagles. However, there are still some small differences. They have slightly narrower muzzles, bigger eyes in proportion to their heads, and protruding tongues.
Now that we’ve learned about the different types of beagle breeds, you’d be wondering which breed is ideal for you. It all comes down to personal choice. Some people prefer smaller, more energetic dogs that are easier to carry around and look after. Others prefer standard-sized dogs that they can take on hunting trips.
Whether you’re looking for a hunting companion or company around the house, you’ve made an excellent choice. Beagles are one of the most lovable and engaging breeds that you can have with you. Their adorable and quirky traits will soon find their way into your heart and you’ll wonder how you ever did without them.
I am a full-time mum of two kids and a beautiful golden retriever. Writing is my passion: from food journalism to pets, parenting tips, etc. I can write on just about everything under the sun. I have been writing for the past 7 years and during that time, I have been a regular contributor to several blogs and pet magazines. I have also written feature articles, POV pieces, and dabbled in a few different formats of writing over the years.
