Beagle Dog BreedingFind the Perfect Match

While Beagles are generally healthy, recommended tests include: Hip X-rays (OFA), Annual eye examinations (CERF/OFA), MLS genetic test for connective tissue health, and optional tests like Factor VII deficiency, thyroid panel, and patella evaluation. These tests ensure you're breeding the healthiest possible puppies.

Beagles typically have 4-6 puppies per litter, though litters can range from 1-10 puppies. First-time mothers often have smaller litters. Beagles are excellent mothers with strong maternal instincts, making whelping usually straightforward with proper preparation.

Yes! Beagles are excellent for responsible first-time breeders. They're generally healthy, have good maternal instincts, and moderate size makes whelping easier. Their friendly temperament makes them easy to work with during breeding. Join a breed club for mentorship and support.

Musladin-Lueke Syndrome (MLS) is a genetic connective tissue disorder specific to Beagles. It's easily prevented through simple genetic testing. By testing both parents, you can ensure no affected puppies. Carriers can be bred to clear dogs, producing healthy puppies while maintaining genetic diversity.

Beagle breeding costs include: Health testing ($800-$1,500 for recommended tests), stud fees ($500-$1,500 for quality males), prenatal care ($300-$500), whelping supplies ($200-$300), and puppy care until 8 weeks ($150-$250 per puppy). Quality Beagle puppies typically sell for $800-$2,500, with champion bloodlines reaching $3,000+. The breed's good health keeps costs lower than many breeds.

The optimal breeding age for Beagles is 2-8 years for males and 2-7 years for females. Waiting until 2 years ensures complete physical and mental maturity plus health testing completion. Beagles maintain fertility longer than many breeds due to their robust health. Most breeders retire females by 6-7 years and males can continue until 8-9 years with good health.

No, Beagles typically have easy, natural births. Their moderate size and athletic build facilitate normal whelping. C-section rates are low (5-10%). Most Beagle mothers deliver naturally within 4-6 hours. Their strong maternal instincts mean minimal intervention needed. However, always have emergency vet contact ready and monitor for signs of distress during labor.

Beagles come in tricolor (black, brown, white), red and white, lemon and white, and chocolate tricolor. The tricolor pattern is dominant. Two tricolor parents can produce all color varieties depending on recessive genes. Lemon is recessive, requiring both parents to carry the gene. Blue and liver colors exist but are less common. Color doesn't affect health or temperament.

Finding a quality Beagle stud requires: Verifying health clearances (hips, eyes, MLS status), reviewing pedigree for champions and health history, assessing temperament personally, checking National Beagle Club listings, attending field trials or shows to see dogs work, and confirming the stud has proven fertility. Petmeetly connects you with verified, health-tested Beagle studs from responsible breeders nationwide.

Beagles come in two size varieties: 13-inch (under 13 inches at shoulder) and 15-inch (13-15 inches at shoulder). Both varieties can be bred together, but size consistency in litters improves when matching varieties. The 13-inch variety typically weighs 20-25 pounds, while 15-inch Beagles weigh 25-30 pounds. Size doesn't affect health or temperament, but some hunters prefer specific sizes.