General Appearance
A small to medium-sized hound with a well-balanced and athletic build. The Beagle should appear solid and neither too delicate nor coarse. Its expression is gentle, pleading, and intelligent. Movement is free and easy, with good reach and drive.
Size
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Height (AKC classifications):
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13-inch variety: Up to 13 inches at the withers
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15-inch variety: Over 13 inches and not exceeding 15 inches
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Weight: Typically 20–30 pounds
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Proportions: The body length should be approximately equal to the height at the withers, forming a square or slightly longer rectangle.
Head
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Skull: Fairly long, slightly domed, broad and full.
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Stop: Well-defined.
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Muzzle: Straight and of moderate length, with square-cut jaws.
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Nose: Large with wide nostrils, typically black (lighter in some light-colored dogs).
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Eyes: Large, set well apart, soft and pleading expression; hazel or brown in color.
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Ears: Long, low-set, rounded at the tips, and reaching nearly to the end of the nose when pulled forward; set close to the head.
Body
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Neck: Medium length with a slight arch, free from throatiness.
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Shoulders: Sloping and muscular.
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Chest: Deep and broad, extending below the elbows.
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Back: Straight and strong, with a level topline.
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Loins: Broad and slightly arched.
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Tail: Set moderately high, carried gaily but not curled over the back, and often tipped with white.
Legs & Feet
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Forelegs: Straight and well-boned. Pasterns short and firm.
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Hindquarters: Muscular and well-angulated, with firm hocks and good drive.
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Feet: Round, firm, with full pads and well-arched toes—referred to as a “cat foot.”
Coat
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Type: Close, hard, and medium-length. Weather-resistant.
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Color: Any recognized hound color is acceptable, including:
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Tri-color (black, tan, and white)
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Red and white
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Lemon and white
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Chocolate tri
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Blue tick or red tick
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Saddleback variations
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White tip on the tail is desirable for visibility
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Gait / Movement
The Beagle’s movement should be smooth, effortless, and purposeful. Front legs should reach well forward without high action, and rear legs should have strong propulsion. Viewed from front or rear, legs move in parallel.
Temperament
Beagles are happy, friendly, and affectionate. They are neither aggressive nor timid. As pack animals, they thrive with human or canine company and can become vocal or mischievous if left alone. Their keen nose makes them excellent trackers and food-seekers.
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Disposition: Gentle, curious, loyal
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Trainability: Moderate—food motivation is key
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Vocalization: Notable for its distinct “bay” or howling bark
Faults
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Straight shoulders or overly long body
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Excessively shy or aggressive behavior
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Cow-hocked rear legs
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Lack of tail tip or tail carried too tightly curled
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Short muzzle or overly prominent stop
Disqualifications
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Over 15 inches in height at the withers
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Blue eyes
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Overshot or undershot jaw
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Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchidism (in males)
Ideal Owner
Beagles do best with active individuals or families who enjoy outdoor time. They love scent games and long walks, and are good with children and other dogs. A secure yard is essential, as their nose often overrides obedience.