How to Identify a Beagle

A beagle is a hound dog, but a very small version and are known as an alert and affectionate animal. There are two sizes of beagles, the 13-inch and the 15-inch, and both are used to hunt rabbits and other small animals. They also make wonderful pets, so even if you aren't a hunter, you can enjoy the company of a beagle.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Check the dog's head and muzzle. A beagle's head is long with a square medium-length muzzle.

2. Pull the dog's ears gently forward. A beagle's ears should almost reach the end of it's nose.

3. Check that the chest is broad and deep. The shoulders should be very muscular.

4. Inspect the tail, which is set high on the dog's body and should not curve over it's back. It may have a slight curve and it should feel like a brush.

5. Feel the pads on the dogs paws. They should be very hard. The legs should be straight. The paws should be round and firm.

6. Pet the dog to confirm that the hair is coarse, hard, and set close together. It should be of medium length.

Tips & Warnings

• The 13-inch beagle should not weigh more than 18 pounds, and the 15-inch should not weigh more than 30 pounds.
• Beagles can come in a variety of colors. Many people assume they are suppose to be tri-color (white, black, and tan), but that is not true. They can come in lemon, red and white, or blue tick.