Nittany Beagle Rescue - About Beagles

About Beagles

Beagles are a small, hardy breed, ranging in height from 12 to 15" at the shoulder and weighing from 18 to 30 pounds. Beagles vary in hair color, but the most common is black, tan and white (tricolor).

Beagles are a short haired, easy-to-care-for dog, and need brushing only a couple of times a week. Given a healthy diet and moderate exercise they will maintain their healthy glow.

Beagles shed. People with allergies may react to the dander and fur from beagles, although allergies can be reduced with regular grooming and proper bathing of the beagle.

Beagles as a breed date back to the 1300s. Beagles have been used for hundreds of years to hunt small game on foot. They are in the hound group, a classic scent hound, meaning that they hunt with their noses. The name beagle may be based on the Celtic word beag, which means small.

Because beagles are scent hounds, they can be roamers. Beagles have been known to follow a scent for hours or days. They can never be trusted in a non-fenced yard or off leash.

Beagles are territorial and protective of their family. They tend to be very good with children. Beagles have a sensitive nature and a strong desire to please.

Most rescue beagles are between 1 and 5 years old. Why adopt an older dog? They are usually house trained, past the chewing stage, and a little more settled. That means less work for you in training and transitioning the dog into your household!

The normal life span for beagles is between 14 and 16 years, so the rescue beagle still has plenty of years to give you lots of love!