Curious about what a pocket beagle is? The pocket beagle is a smaller version of the standard beagle, which is one of America’s most beloved pets. Breeders create this miniature breed either by introducing dwarfism or by selectively breeding the smallest pups over several generations.
Looking to get a pocket beagle? Learn everything you need about their cost, breed characteristics, size and weight.
What Is a Pocket Beagle
Queen Elizabeth I was known to entertain her guests with Pocket Beagles, allowing the tiny dogs to play and bounce around on the dining table without disturbing the dishes. These petite canines provided delightful entertainment, much to the enjoyment of her guests. Bred for hunting, Beagles have evolved to excel in various roles today.
Unfortunately, the original Pocket Beagles are now extinct, with their genetic lines lost to history. Today, the officially recognized beagle breed weighs between 20 to 25 pounds (9.07 to 11.34 kg) and stands 13 to 16 inches (33 to 40.6 cm) tall, depending on the standards set by various dog registries.
For instance, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes one beagle breed in two varieties: those up to 13 inches (33 cm) in height and those between 13 and 15 inches (33 to 38 cm) in height. Other registries acknowledge a single variety that ranges from 13 to 16 inches (33 to 40.6 cm) in height.
Also read: How much do Beagle puppies cost?
Source: Pexels
Despite the absence of an official definition from major registries like the AKC, UKC, and APRI, the term “mini beagle” is often used by breeders. Some classify any beagle 13 inches or smaller at the shoulder as a mini beagle, but this can be misleading since 13 inches is about average for a beagle.
Families seeking a “mini” beagle may expect a dog significantly smaller than the average beagle.
Because there is no standard size for mini beagles, the label can be applied to almost any beagle. Prospective buyers should exercise caution and ask detailed questions about the size of the parents and the size of previous litters to ensure they understand what they are getting.
What Are Pocket Beagles: In a Nutshell
| Weight/Height | 7 to 15 pounds / 7 to 12 inches |
| Lifespan | 12 to 15 years |
| Coat Type | Short, smooth, and straight fur |
| Grooming Needs | 🦴🦴🦴 |
| Shedding | 🦴🦴🦴🦴 |
| Temperament | Playful, intelligent, gentle, and affectionate |
| Good With Kids | 🦴🦴🦴 |
| Good With Other Animals | 🦴🦴🦴 |
| Intelligence | 🦴🦴🦴🦴 |
| Easy to Train | 🦴🦴🦴 |
| Energy Level | 🦴🦴🦴🦴 |
| Barking Habits | 🦴🦴🦴🦴🦴 |
*All ‘bone ratings’ out of a maximum of 5
Difference in Appearance Between Between Beagles and Pocket Beagles
One of the most noticeable differences between standard beagles and pocket beagles is in their facial features and head structure. Pocket beagles often have longer noses, higher-set ears, and more curled tails compared to the show standards of their larger counterparts.
Is this a problem? Not at all.
If you don’t intend to show your beagle, these variations in appearance are perfectly acceptable, especially if a smaller size better suits your family and living space. As long as your puppy is healthy and comes from a responsible breeder, these differences are just a part of their unique charm.
How Are Pocket Beagle Dogs Bred?
Breeding pocket beagles involves a thoughtful approach to ensure healthy puppies with desirable traits.
Some breeders may have small mothers and a small father beagle, but the best practices prioritize genetic diversity and quality over exclusively breeding small beagles generation after generation.
Typically, small beagle puppies come from a mix of small and normal-sized parents or grandparents. For instance, a small beagle may have one small parent and one average-sized parent, or two small parents with grandparents of varying sizes.
This method has several advantages. It promotes genetic diversity, maintains the overall quality of the breed, and reduces the risk of genetic issues that can arise from breeding exclusively for small size. However, this approach also means that not all puppies in a litter will be small.
Some puppies will inherit the smaller size of their ancestors, while others might resemble their average-sized relatives, and some may fall somewhere in between. Breeders will need to closely monitor the puppies’ growth to estimate their eventual size, although predicting this can be challenging.
How Big Are Pocket Beagles
Pocket beagles are notably smaller than their standard counterparts, making them an ideal choice for families seeking a compact, yet playful companion.
How Tall Are Pocket Beagles
Typically, pocket beagles stand between 7 to 12 inches tall (18 to 30 cm) and weigh between 7 to 15 pounds (3 to 7 kg).
This smaller size allows them to fit comfortably in various living environments while still maintaining the energetic and friendly nature characteristic of beagles.
How Big Do Pocket Beagles Get
Again, since there’s no clear definition for the breed standard, you can consider any beagle over 13 inches tall tol be considered a regular beagle, rather than pocket sized.
How Much Are Pocket Beagles
Adoption: $50–$300
Adoption is often the most economical way to bring a pocket beagle into your home. Shelters typically charge processing fees, which vary based on the dog and the shelter. These fees can be as low as $50, but they are often higher for purebred dogs and young puppies.
Breeder: $500–$2,000
For those seeking a purebred pocket beagle puppy, purchasing from a breeder is the best option, although it comes at a higher cost. Prices range from $500 to $2,000, depending on factors such as the puppy’s gender, appearance, and temperament.
Be cautious of prices that seem too low, as ethical breeding practices involve significant expenses. A very low price might indicate that the breeder is compromising on the puppy’s health and well-being.
Supplies and Initial Costs: $250–$1,100+
In addition to the cost of the pocket beagle itself, you will need to purchase various supplies to welcome your new pet into your home. These initial expenses can add up, covering items such as a crate, ID tag, collar, and other essentials.
Many of these are one-time purchases or close to it. Initial veterinary costs also need to be considered. If your pet has already been spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped as part of the adoption fee, these expenses might be reduced.
How Much Do Pocket Beagles Cost to Own
| Total Monthly Cost | $60–$275 per month | Includes daily needs, health care, and entertainment. Important to budget carefully. |
| Health Care | $40–$215 per month | Covers nutrition, grooming, vet care, and insurance. Pet insurance is the biggest expense. |
| Food | $10–$25 per month | High-quality dog food is recommended, but costs are low due to the dog’s small size. |
| Grooming | $0–$10 per month | Minimal grooming needs. Occasional refills on pet shampoos and brushes. |
| Vet Care | $10–$80+ per month | Regular vet visits, medications, and insurance co-pays. Generally low unless emergencies occur. |
| Pet Insurance | $20–$100 per month | Helps with emergency care costs. Higher coverage can save money in the long run. |
| Environment Maintenance | $10–$20 per month | Primarily for poop bags and clean-up supplies. Costs can increase if the dog is destructive. |
| Entertainment and Toys | $10–$50 per month | Pocket beagles are active and need toys. Consider a subscription box for variety. |
How Long Do Pocket Beagles Live
Source: Unsplash
Pocket beagles typically have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. To ensure your pocket beagle lives a long, happy life, it’s crucial to meet their daily care and exercise needs and schedule regular veterinary visits.
- Middle Age: 5 years
- Geriatric Age: 10 years
As pocket beagles age, it’s important to be aware of the health challenges they may face. Here are some common health issues to monitor:
- Hypoglycemia – A rapid drop in blood sugar levels, which can be fatal if not addressed promptly.
- Improper Organ Development – This can lead to serious conditions such as heart failure or liver problems.
- Tooth Disease – Regular dental care is essential to prevent oral health issues.
- Diabetes – Monitoring your dog’s diet and health is important to manage this condition.
- Orthopedic Issues – Increased risk of luxating patella and hip dysplasia.
Here’s a detailed article on beagle’s lifespan and the factors that affect it.
Your pocket beagle might not be able to handle the same level of activity as a standard beagle. Shorter walks may be necessary to avoid putting too much strain on their heart. Additionally, be mindful of cold temperatures as small dogs often struggle to regulate their body temperature.
Safety in the home is another key consideration. Be cautious about where you step and consider using steps to help your pocket beagle navigate high furniture, preventing potential injuries from jumping off sofas or beds.
By staying vigilant and providing attentive care, you can help ensure your pocket beagle enjoys a long, healthy life.
