Beagle

Beagles are famously friendly, curious, and merry. They love people and get along well with children and other dogs. Their gentle nature makes them excellent family companions, though their strong scent drive means they can be easily distracted outdoors.

These dogs are pack animals by nature and don't do well when left alone for long periods. They thrive on companionship and will follow their nose anywhere — making secure fencing essential.

Beagles are vocal dogs, known for their distinctive bay and howl. This trait made them excellent hunting dogs but can be challenging in close-quarters living. Training requires patience and positive reinforcement.

Beagles come in two size varieties: under 13 inches and 13-15 inches at the shoulder. They have a compact, muscular body with a slightly domed head, long floppy ears, and a straight back. Their expression is gentle and pleading.

The classic Beagle coat is tricolor (black, white, and tan), though they also come in red and white, lemon and white, and other combinations. Their short, dense coat is weather-resistant and easy to maintain.

Their most distinctive feature is their white-tipped tail, which was bred to help hunters see them in tall grass. Beagles carry their tail happily upright when moving.

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Beagles adapt well to various living situations but need a securely fenced yard. Their powerful nose means they will follow interesting scents anywhere — never let them off-leash in unsecured areas.

They need at least 60 minutes of daily exercise including walks, play, and scent games. Beagles excel at nose work, tracking, and agility activities that engage their natural abilities.

Beagles are food-motivated, which aids training but also makes them prone to obesity. Measure portions carefully and avoid excessive treats. Their love of food also makes them skilled counter surfers — keep food out of reach!