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There are so many popular breeds today that it can be hard to determine the best dog for your family. That said, the Beagle is one of the most sought-after and popular dogs in America.
In fact, Beagles are the eighth most popular breed in the country.1 However, if you are interested in the recent fad of miniature dogs, you might wonder how you can combine this passion with your love for the Beagle.
That’s where the Pocket Beagle comes in. If you’ve decided you want a Beagle but aren’t sure of the differences between the two dogs, we have you covered. We examine these adorable pups and discuss the differences between the two.
Visual Differences
As you’ve probably already assumed, there are other differences in appearance between the Beagle and the Pocket Beagle besides their size.
At a Glance
- 15 inches average size
- 20 to 25 pounds average weight
- 12- to 15-year life expectancy
- Loves being outside, moderate to high energy levels
- Family-friendly and sociable
- Moderate to high grooming needed
- Easy to train
- Highly intelligent
- Gets along well with other pets
- 7 to 12 inches average size
- 7 to 15 pounds average weight
- 7- to 9-year life expectancy
- Loves the outdoors, moderate energy
- Moderate to high grooming needed
- Family-friendly and sociable
- Easy to train
- Intelligent
- Gets along well with other pets
The Size Differences
How Big Do Pocket Beagles Get?
If you live in an apartment or love everything in miniature, you might want to know how big a Pocket Beagle will get. The adorable pets grow to be between 7 and 12 inches tall and weigh 7 to 15 pounds.
One interesting thing to remember is that the American Kennel Club does not recognize the Pocket Beagle because they fall just short of the required weight and size requirements.
How Big Does the Standard Beagle Get?
The Standard Beagle reaches around 15 inches in height and weighs in at 20 to 25 pounds, and they’re an official breed recognized by the AKC. They are also one of the most common dogs in America.
What Are the Differences in Physical Looks?
Although the two dogs are both Beagles, they have unique differences in their appearance.
Pocket Beagles closely resemble Standard Beagles, but crossbreeding and dwarfism sometimes alter their appearance. The little pups sometimes have narrower muzzles than the larger Beagles. Their body shape often seems disproportionate to their legs, and their stomachs distend more than those of Standard Beagles.
Pocket Beagles also have wider heads and bulging eyes, and they are often born with protruding tongues and an overbite, none of which make them any less adorable.
Are There Any Differences in Personality?
Both dogs are friendly, lovable, and outgoing. Since they are highly social, they do well with other pets. However, neither type can be left alone for very long; they will become depressed and possibly destructive.
The Beagle gets along great with other pets and children. However, while the Pocket Beagle is the same way, remember the dog is quite a bit smaller, which means a pocket beagles temperament is more fragile, so be careful when you let them play with younger kids and other pets.
Both dogs are suspicious of strangers and act coy around unfamiliar guests, even if they don’t see them as a threat.
What Are the Health Concerns for Each Dog?
As with any breed, there are health concerns to watch out for with the Pocket Beagle and the Standard Beagle.
- Dwarfism
- Hip dysplasia
- Prone to obesity
- Patellar luxation
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Glaucoma
- Hypothyroidism
- Cherry eye
- Bacterial infections
- Viral infections
If you see any of the signs in your dog, it’s best to make an appointment with your vet.
Which Dog Is Right for You?
If you have small children or animals that play rough, it might be best to adopt a Standard Beagle, as Pocket Beagles are smaller and, therefore, quite a bit more fragile.
However, if your children are older and your pets are gentle, a Pocket Beagle might be just the pet you’ve been looking for to bring into your home.
Final Thoughts
Standard and Pocket Beagles are intelligent, friendly, and loyal breeds, and any family would be lucky to give one a forever home. If you’re looking to adopt a Pocket Beagle or a Standard Beagle, remember that owning a dog is a full-time responsibility, so make sure you’re prepared before you make a final decision.
See also:
- Do Beagles Smell? Breed Characteristics & Care Tips
- Where Beagles Have Soared: On My Cessna, Dog Is Literally My Co-Pilot
Featured Image Credit: (T) Somo_Photography, Pixabay | (B) bunthaweekan anpunya, Shutterstock
