Beagle Lifespan: How Long Do Beagles Live?

Written by August Croft
Updated: June 29, 2023
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With a charming call and a precious face, beagles are a popular dog breed. They are hunting dogs but also fantastic home companions- but how long do beagles live? This is an important question to ask, whether you plan on using your beagle as a working dog or not.

In this article, we will cover the lifespan of these wonderful family pets as well as what their life cycle is like from beginning to old age. Whether you are hoping to adopt one of these hunting dogs into your life or if you are simply curious, learn all about beagles now. 

How long do beagles live?

With a charming call and a precious face, beagles are a popular dog breed.

©iStock.com/androsov58

How Long Do Beagles Live?

Beagles live an average of 12-15 years. They are considered a relatively hardy breed of dog, as well as being on the smaller end. All small dogs tend to live longer lives than large dogs, even though this isn’t true for many other animal species. 

With their compact size, large ears, and generally playful personality, the beagle ranks highly on the AKC’s top breed list. Not only are they popular with families, they are still used as hunting dogs to this day given their keen sense of smell. 

Given how playful and friendly this dog breed is, you may be wondering what they are like when they are young. Let’s take a moment to discuss the average beagle’s life cycle. 

How long do beagles live?
Beagles live an average of 12-15 years

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©eAlisa/Shutterstock.com

The Average Beagle Life Cycle

From blind newborn to dignified senior, this is what life is like for a beagle. Their life cycle is very similar to many other breeds of dogs, though their large ears are a sight to behold during puppyhood!

Newborns

Newborn beagles are born to their mother in a litter of at least three puppies. They are born without the use of any of their senses, including sight and sound, and their keen sense of smell is not yet developed either. If you are taking care of a newborn litter of beagles, it is important to handle them with care but get them used to the human touch.

The first three weeks of a baby beagle’s life is all about eating and sleeping. They are incapable of doing much else, and they are completely reliant on their mother or on a human hand to feed them during this time. Their sight begins to develop at roughly three weeks of age. 

Beagle Puppies

How long do beagles live?

The first three weeks of a baby beagle’s life is all about eating and sleeping.

©Sigma_S/Shutterstock.com

Beagle puppies gain the use of all of their senses after 4 weeks of age, and by this point, they are ready to explore the world around them. They will become increasingly more vocal during this stage of their life as well, and many beagle puppies learn from one another during playtime.

A beagle puppy is more responsive to training and commands from 3 to 4 months of age. They grow steadily during this time as well, more than doubling in size from their infant weeks. They are ready for adoption, properly socialized and ready for anything.

Beagle puppies are notoriously mischievous and active, causing many dog owners pain if not properly exercised and observed. They will begin to respond to your commands more and more as they age, and most beagles are no longer puppies after 12 months.

Adult Beagles

Beagles are fully grown at a year and a half of age. Their mass and weight will remain steady after this point. They will have dropped many of their unfortunate puppy habits as well. However, they will remain curious and eager to explore. They also need an abundance of exercise for the majority of their life. 

While most beagles live an average of 12 to 15 years, the oldest beagle on record lived to be nearly 28 years old. The most important thing to consider for any adult beagle is the amount of exercise they receive. Their overall diet is also important.

If you have a pet beagle and are wondering how you can extend the life of your new family member, read on to learn more. There are many things you can do!

How long do beagles live?

Beagles are considered fully grown once they have reached a year and a half of age.

©bunthaweekan anpunya/Shutterstock.com

How to Extend the Life of Your Pet Beagle

Your pet beagle is an important member of your family and should be treated with the utmost love and care. Whether you plan on using your beagle to hunt or simply want a loyal family companion, here is what you can do to extend the life of your pet beagle:

  • Make sure your beagle gets plenty of exercise. Many working or hunting breeds of dogs require more exercise than the average dog. This is true for beagles, as they were bred to hunt rabbits and have very active needs because of this. You want to give your beagle a good walk daily, to allow them to exercise their nose and other senses. Your beagle may also require additional exercise in the form of cardio or running. This depends on the age and energy level of your dog. 
  • Feed your beagle a robust diet. All dogs deserve to be fed quality food, and your beagle is no exception. From puppyhood to adulthood, your beagle should be fed a high-quality diet, and be sure to not overfeed your beagle. Many beagles are very treat-motivated, and this can be very useful while training. However, be sure to limit the amount that your beagle eats so that they do not gain too much weight.
  • See a veterinarian regularly. Establishing a relationship with a vet that gets to know your puppy through the entirety of its life is important to establish routine care. Your vet can help you whenever your beagle is feeling unwell. They will be more familiar with your dog than any other vets.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/androsov58

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About the Author

August Croft is a writer at A-Z Animals where their primary focus is on astrology, symbolism, and gardening. August has been writing a variety of content for over 4 years and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Theater from Southern Oregon University, which they earned in 2014. They are currently working toward a professional certification in astrology and chart reading. A resident of Oregon, August enjoys playwriting, craft beer, and cooking seasonal recipes for their friends and high school sweetheart.

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