AKC Beagles – A Breed Profile

AKC Beagles Quick Stats for AKC Beagles

  • Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 14 – 16 inches (36 – 41 cm) ; bitches: 13 – 15 inches (33 – 38 cm)
  • Weight: dogs: 22 – 25 pounds (10 – 11 kg) ; bitches: 20 – 23 pounds (9 – 10 kg)
  • Life Expectancy: 10 – 15 years
  • AKC Group: Hound Group – AKC recognized in 1885
  • Shedding: average shedder
  • Living Conditions: okay in apartment; very active indoors; small backyard okay

Personality of AKC Beagles

Beagles are one of those wonderful dog breeds that just loves attention from their human family. They are very friendly and loyal, which makes them excellent pets and companions. They are also great with children, since they are usually sweet, gentle, and happy dogs.

These hounds also enjoy being around other dogs. However, because of their hunting instinct, they should not be trusted around other smaller pets.

History of AKC Beagles

Like many other dog breeds, the origin of the Beagle is unclear. However, from as early as the 1500s, some say even earlier than that, English hunters used dogs that were similar to the Beagle in packs to hunt rabbit and small prey. It wasn’t until sometime in the 1800s that the modern day Beagle breed was really developed.

The Beagle came to the United States around 1876 where today, it is one of the most popular dog breeds.

AKC Beagles were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885.

Beagle Care and Grooming

Because they are such energetic dogs, daily exercise should be a part of your Beagle’s routine. Take them on a long walk or a quick run.

Beagles really enjoy the opportunity to sniff along small pathways and trails. Just make sure not to let them do this off-leash. If they catch the scent of some small creature, they have been know to run after that exciting smell. These dogs just love the freedom of being able to play around in an enclosed backyard.

The Beagle has a smooth short-haired coat that is pretty easy to take care of. You should only give them a bath when it is necessary. Brush their coats with a firm bristle brush at least once per week. Check their ears regularly, and do not forget to trim the nails.

The Beagle is an average shedder.

Health Problems of AKC Beagles

The average lifespan of the Beagle dog breed is about ten to fifteen years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

  • CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
  • intervertebral disk disease

Minor health issues include:

  • epilepsy
  • glaucoma
  • patellar luxation
  • KCS (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca) – dry eye
  • chondrodysplasia
  • hypothyroidism

Veterinarians recommend having Beagles tested specifically for eye problems, hip dysplasia, knee problems, and thyroid problems.

Best,

Omar Reyes

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