Teacup Beagle

Today, we use the term “Teacup Beagle” in reference to a small version of the Beagle, which is not officially recognized by the AKC. These small dogs are also referred to as “Pocket” Beagles and Miniature Beagles. They are much smaller than standard Beagles, their wither height not exceeding 7-10 inches. Although some breeders hope that these dogs will be recognized in the foreseeable future, major breed clubs have doubts about the relevance of such breeding, because this smaller version is highly susceptible to serious genetic diseases.

Some people attribute Teacup Beagles to the Old Pocket Beagle, which was popular during the days of Queen Elizabeth. Indeed, those early Beagles are now extinct, and these new Miniature Beagles do not bear any relation to the Old Pocket Beagle. There are two size varieties recognized by the AKC: Beagles, standing 10-13 inches high at the withers, and Beagles measuring 13-15 inches high at the withers. The AKC does not recognize dogs exceeding 15 inches high at the withers, although most clubs in Europe do accept dogs standing up to 16 inches high at the shoulder.

Beagles are famous for their cute appearance and lively disposition. They have a characteristic pleading facial expression, and love to please their owners. Beagles are great learners, and they enjoy involvement in various intelligent games. They literally cannot do without activities that stimulate their mental abilities. Beagles enjoy all sorts of interaction, and are great companions for children. Initially bred as pack dogs, Beagles retain their natural eagerness to work in cooperation with other dogs. Therefore, they enjoy playing with other hounds and regard members of the household as members of their “packs”. So called Teacup Beagles are supposed to have the same physical and mental characteristics, except for their diminutive size.

Beagles have a medium-length coat that comes in various hound colors, including bi-colors, tri-colors, bluetick, blue-mottle and so forth. They have long hanging ears and large hazel or brown eyes. The muzzle is elongated and the skull is slightly domed. Beagles have a characteristic baying voice, which they use while hunting. For this reason, they can be extremely noisy when bored or neglected, and may become a sheer nuisance for neighbors. Beagles are extremely prone to separation anxiety, which may cripple their mentality. They are somewhat stubborn, and hence they can be difficult to train for young dog owners. Unlike Teacup Beagles, standard Beagles rarely suffer from genetic abnormalities, and their average lifespan is about 12-14 years.