Be Wise › Pet Wise guides › Dogs › Beagle
Beagle: temperament, health and care
Beagle: temperament, exercise and grooming needs, common health problems and who this dog suits.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Size | Small-medium, about 9–14 kg |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Exercise | Moderate to high: scent games help |
| Grooming | Short coat, sheds moderately; weekly brushing |
Temperament and who it suits
Friendly, curious and scent-driven; can be vocal and difficult to recall.
Often suits: active families with secure gardens.
Their nose leads them away, so secure fencing and careful off-lead training are essential.
Health problems to know about
- Obesity
- Ear infections
- Epilepsy
- Thyroid problems
Individuals vary. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks, vaccination and weight control.
Before you get a Beagle
- See the puppy with its mother, where it was born
- Ask about health tests on the parents for the conditions above
- Check it is microchipped and registered by eight weeks old
- Consider adopting: breed rescues and rehoming centres often have dogs of this breed looking for homes
See buying a puppy or kitten: Lucy's Law and your rights.
Care, law and costs
See our general guide to dogs for feeding, the law in the UK, what it costs and emergencies, and our guides to microchipping law and toxic foods and plants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Beagle live?
A Beagle typically lives 12–15 years. Individual health, diet and weight all matter.
How much exercise does a Beagle need?
Moderate to high: scent games help.
What health problems are common in a Beagle?
Common concerns include obesity, ear infections, epilepsy and thyroid problems. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks.
How much grooming does a Beagle need?
Short coat, sheds moderately; weekly brushing.
Who does a Beagle suit?
It often suits active families with secure gardens. Their nose leads them away, so secure fencing and careful off-lead training are essential.
Similar dogs
Sources
- The Royal Kennel Club: breed information and health schemes
- BSAVA: Microchipping legislation in the UK
- Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council: Lucy's Law
Want answers for your situation?
The Be Pet Wise app lets you choose your country and pet, and ask PetBot follow-up questions.
Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.