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Beagles are small, adorable dogs full of energy and charm. Known for their playful nature, they make excellent family pets and easily bond with both kids and adults. As a hound breed, they do have a bit of a stubborn side but they are one of the easiest dogs to train which makes them ideal for first-timers.
If you’re a Beagle fan but can’t find one available at a shelter or from a breeder, don’t worry! There are other dog breeds out there that resemble Beagles and share similar temperaments and physical characteristics.
Read on to discover which one of these breeds could be the perfect alternative for you.
Dog Breeds Similar to Beagles
1. Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is a fantastic option for Beagle lovers, as both breeds share many traits and a rich history as hunting dogs from England and have similar active, alert personalities.
When it comes to size, Beagles are a bit larger, standing 11–15 inches tall and weighing 15–30 pounds. Jack Russell Terriers are smaller, reaching 10–13 inches in height and 9–15 pounds in weight. Despite the size difference, both are medium-sized and fit well in smaller homes or apartments.
Both breeds have double coats in earthy tones, although Beagles come in a wider range of colors. They both need about 30–60 minutes of exercise daily and mental stimulation and do well with early training. Even for busy families, dedicating this amount of time to dogs isn’t too challenging, as they aren’t as demanding as other dogs, which require extensive exercise.
They are curious and energetic dogs with a playful and friendly nature, making them great family pets that get along well with other animals
Neither breed is hypoallergenic, but Jack Russells shed less because of their lighter and shorter coats. With a lifespan of 11 to 16 years and a rather stubborn streak, these pups will definitely melt your heart with their cute, mischievous antics.
2. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is another member of the Hound family that shares many characteristics with the Beagle. They are excellent scent trackers who love exploring new things and will sniff out every new addition to your house—taking it all way too seriously!
Looks wise, they have similar coat markings to Beagles but are more solidly built, weighing between 40–60 pounds and standing 11–15 inches tall, and have a lifespan of 10-12 years.
Basset hounds have a distinctive bark but when they exercise their vocal cords too frequently, it can become a bit disruptive.
3. Harrier
The Harrier is another breed that shares striking similarities with the Beagle, both in looks and temperament. Slightly taller, standing 19–21 inches, and weighing 45–60 pounds, they have the same sweet expressions and velvety long ears that Beagle fans adore, along with the incredible scent-tracking ability typical of hounds.
They are also known for their distinctive hound colors, including tri-color patterns and bi-color mixes like black and tan.
Like Beagles, Harriers are pack dogs, meaning they thrive in the company of others—whether it’s other dogs, or their human family and children. With a lifespan of 12 to 15 years, they make great companions throughout their life.
4. English Foxhound
If you’re a die-hard fan of athletic physiques and sleek coats, the English Foxhound is exactly what will steal your heart. They stand 25–27 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 55–75 pounds. With a lifespan of 10–13 years, English Foxhounds are just as intelligent and affectionate as Beagles but require ample exercise to stay healthy.
Originally bred in the 16th century as per The Foxhound Club to hunt foxes, English Foxhounds are natural trackers with an exceptional sense of smell. Beagles, also part of the hound family, share this trait, excelling in scent tracking. This common hunting background connects Beagles, Whippets, Greyhounds, and other breeds of hounds closely to the English Foxhound.
Despite their strong hunting instinct and herding background, they make excellent family pets today due to their friendly disposition and sociable nature. They are short-haired compared to Beagles, but their color patterns closely resemble each other.
5. Bloodhound
If you love Beagles, the Bloodhound might be another hound dog breed you’ll enjoy. They are renowned for their distinctive howl, keen sense of smell, and natural hunting instinct. In terms of weight, they are significantly larger, standing 23 to 27 inches tall and weighing between 80 to 110 pounds.
They have an innate, strong desire to follow scents that enables them to play a vital role in search-and-rescue operations, and their trail can even serve as evidence in court as per the U.S. Department of Justice.
Personality-wise, they are gentle and good-natured dogs that live happily when provided with good physical activity, especially when their proud parents keep them engaged in small games. They tend to be more relaxed than Beagles, though both dogs are known for their friendly and outgoing nature and for getting along well with children and other pets.
While they require early training to manage their strong hunting instincts around other animals or kids, once trained, their friendly nature and unwavering loyalty keep their pet parents hooked.
6. American Foxhound
Another fantastic option for those who prefer a tougher and stronger hound dog breed is the Bloodhound, which ranges from 21–29 inches in height and weighs 60–70 pounds. They share many qualities with Beagles, including their friendly, laid-back personality.
As part of the hound family, the American Foxhound inherits the same independent streak as the Beagle and other breeds in the family. They may require some training and obedience classes to curb their stubbornness, but once they’re properly trained, they make wonderful, affectionate companions.
Bred primarily for hunting, these dogs are active and enjoy outdoor play. However, they can also be a bit lazy at times—just like Beagles—enjoying some quiet time before jumping up to join in on a game or run outside.
These dogs have a lifespan of 11–13 years and require minimal grooming. They have a pretty low-maintenance coat that just needs regular brushing to remove loose hairs and occasional baths.
7. Treeing Walker Coonhound
The Treeing Walker Coonhound may remind you of a Beagle with its hound-like looks and spirited vocalizations, but it’s a breed all its own. Larger in size and built for agility, this breed excels at treeing game like raccoons, unlike the Beagle, which specializes in scent-tracking smaller animals like rabbits.
Highly intelligent and loyal, the Treeing Walker Coonhound has a sensitive and affectionate side that makes it a wonderful companion for those who can keep up with its energy. With their striking coat patterns, they may share the Beagle’s coloring, but their athleticism and unique skills set them apart.
These dogs are known for their speed, sharp noses, and natural hunting instincts. While they share the Beagle’s friendly nature, their distinct bark and boundless energy make them a better match for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor adventures and lots of physical activity.
Conclusion
If you love Beagles, you’re in for a treat! Several breeds share their loyal and friendly nature, making them excellent family dogs. The Jack Russell Terrier brings high energy, while the American Foxhound offers a larger, calmer alternative. Basset Hounds, with their detective-like noses, and English Foxhounds, known for their muscular build, also resemble Beagles in many ways.
Other dogs like Cavalier King Charles spaniel, Irish wolfhound, Bluetick coonhound, and Rhodesian ridgeback are also great choices.
Each of these breeds has a special bond with humans. They love being around people and building strong connections. Whether you’re after a small, compact dog or a larger, more robust hound, there’s a breed that suits your lifestyle. Here’s to discovering your perfect canine companion!
