Do beagles shed?

Do beagles shed?

Yes, beagles do shed, although in moderation almost year round, with two shedding seasons where they shed more than normal. They are considered a moderate shedding breed. 

Below, we’ll explore: 

You’ll learn everything you need to about how to best control beagle shedding by the end of this article. 

Beagle fur and coat qualities 

Since beagles’ fur is multicolored (black, tan, white usually), it’s near impossible for their shedding not to stand out on carpet and furniture. First off – beagles actually have two coats of fur. The first one is the undercoat that insulates their body heat. The second layer on top is weather resistant and shields your pup from the elements. 

While a double layered dog is able to withstand harsh sunlight, rain, snow, and wind, they also shed more than single layer coat dogs. 

Shedding frequency throughout the year

Most double coated dogs shed throughout the year, and beagles are no exception. During shedding seasons, they drop their entire coats. 

If you don’t know what shedding seasons are, they’re typically when winter becomes spring and summer becomes fall/autumn. Many dogs shed their summer coats in preparation for warmer winter coats, or the reverse. During these times, it’s important to maintain your beagles coat more than ever, as they’ll likely shed more than usual. 

How to manage shedding: 

There are several things you can do to reduce shedding or at least manage it better. 

1. Brushing

The single most effective way to manage shedding is through brushing your beagle’s coat, 2-3 times a week at least. During shedding seasons, brush daily if possible. If you get the right brush, it should pick up a bulk of fur so it doesn’t end up landing on your furniture. This self-cleaning brush will work wonders on your pet’s fur. 

Brushing also helps with their blood flow, provides a little massage for them, and is a great ritual for you and your beagle to bond over. I recommend brushing them for 5-10 minutes each time. 

If you want a product with more power, try a deshedding brush, which gets at the undercoat as well as the top layer. Try this if a normal brush isn’t doing enough in gathering your beagle’s fur during brushing. 

2. Regular shampooing 

Make sure to clear your pet’s fur thoroughly every month. This helps keep their skin and fur healthy, and prevents excessive shedding. There’s even anti-shedding shampoo that can help control hair shed while giving your beagle’s fur the nutrients and cleaning it needs. 

3. Exercise 

Regularly running or walking outside will release a lot of shedding that won’t be released inside your home. It also promotes healthy circulation and good physical health, which will help prevent hair loss. 

4. Diet 

Always feed your beagle the best quality food. This helps with all sorts of health issues – bone health, body odor, obesity, even sleep quality. As well, a high quality kibble will have plenty of the omega fatty acids that your dog needs for a healthy coat that won’t shed too much. 

If you know your dog still isn’t getting enough omega fatty acid, there are supplements you can get to help boost this. 

Problematic shedding

If it seems like your beagle is shedding a LOT more than usual, it could be that they’re stressed. Maybe there’s loud construction nearby or you recently moved. Dogs are highly intuitive and pick up on our emotions unconsciously. 

It could also be a skin condition like eczema or perhaps a rash has formed. 

You should go to the vet if he’s losing his hair in giant clumps or his skin has a rash, sores, or pus coming out. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Do Beagles Shed?

Are beagles good house dogs? 

Yes! Beagles make great house and apartment dogs. This is primarily due to their small to medium size, friendly natures, and loyal personalities.  

Do beagles bark a lot?

No more than the average dog! If they’re barking excessively, it could be separation anxiety or that they aren’t getting enough exercise. For more on beagle barking, see our article. 

Do beagles shed more than labs?

No, beagles actually shed less than labs. Labradors shed a lot more and their hair is generally longer. 

What two breeds make a Beagle?

Modern beagles are actually made of a mix of “scent hound” breeds including the Talbot Hound, The Northern and Southern Hounds, and the Harrier. 

Are beagles hypoallergenic? 

No. Beagles are double coated animals and shed year round. Because of that, they generally aren’t considered hypoallergenic. However, there are things you can do to reduce allergies. 

What is the life expectancy of a beagle?

12-15 years, which is common for dogs of their size. For more on beagle aging and life stages, see here. 

Are Beagles Cuddly?

Yes! Beagles are highly affectionate and love to cuddle. 

Do Beagles Smell? 

Although beagles have a distinct odor, they don’t smell more than the average dog! Check out our guide to controlling beagle odor.

What dogs don’t shed? 

Popular dog breeds that don’t shed include Maltese, Bichon frisé, Yorkshire Terriers, Poodles, Shih Tzus, Havanese, Scottish Terriers, and West Highland White Terriers.  

How big do beagles get?

Adult male beagles can grow up to 16 inches and weigh at most around 25 pounds, while female beagles can grow up to 15 inches and weigh at most around 22 pounds. 

 Recap: Do beagles shed?

• Yes, beagle shed, although in moderation compared to the average dog breed. 
• It’s easy to control the shedding with regular brushing, proper shampoo, and a healthy diet and exercise regimen. 

The question of beagles’ shedding is one that often leads people to wonder – “Why Beagles Are The Worst Dogs?” However, we think beagles have been unfairly maligned. While they aren’t non-shedding dogs like Maltese or Shih Tzus, they aren’t super shedders like Labradors. As well, their fur is short and with the proper care, shedding should be no problem at all. 

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• Do Beagles howl?
• Are beagles aggressive? 
• Why do beagles eat poop?
• Are beagles stubborn?
• Are beagles lazy?