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Brittany Beagle (Brittany & Beagle Mix) Info, Pictures, Traits and Facts

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By Nicole Cosgrove

Brittany Beagle (Brittany & Beagle Mix)

Height: 12-15 inches
Weight: 25-35 pounds
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Colors: White, roan, orange, black, brown, liver, red
Suitable for: Active families looking for a dog that is good with children
Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, independent, energetic

Few dogs can match the energy and eagerness for the hunt like the Brittany Beagle. Both parent breeds bring this history to this pooch. The Brittany Spaniel traces its background to the area of France of the same name. They are a keen bird dog that has the stamina and endurance for a full day in the field hunting upland game.

The Beagle’s lineage and early ancestors go back to ancient Roman times. Their quarry was hare and rabbits for which they succeeded admirably. They were—and still are—the everyday man’s hunting companion. They have an excellent sense of smell with enthusiasm to make the chase enjoyable. Both breeds are outgoing and friendly. They are also both loyal and intelligent, making this pup an excellent family pet.

The Brittany Beagle doesn’t have to hunt to be happy. Their essential needs are someone to love them and give them the attention they want. They are well-suited toward spending time outdoors and exploring the world. To make sure that this pup is right for you, it pays to learn more about the parent breeds’ history and quirks. Let’s delve into the world of these sporting dogs.divider 10

Brittany Beagle Puppies

Epagneul Breton, Brittany Spaniel and Beagle dog_Przemek Iciak_shutterstock
Image Credit: Przemek Iciak Shutterstock
Energy
Trainability
Health
Lifespan
Sociability

Both parent breeds bring a happy-go-lucky nature to the mix. However, it’s always smart to research what you can expect from this fun-loving pooch. The Brittany Beagle is an active dog that needs an owner to provide enough opportunities for them to run and work off their energy. Remember that it’s a part of their history to be roaming the field in search of game.

The Brittany Spaniel Beagle mix is a vocal pup that makes their feelings known. They also have a bit of a stubborn streak, which isn’t unexpected given their purpose. That also makes them smart with a touch of independence to boot. They have a strong prey drive and an equally high wanderlust potential. Despite all these facts, this pooch is sensitive to harsh reprimands.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Brittany Beagle

1. President Lyndon B. Johnson Loved His Foot Hounds, a Term That Describes the Breed’s Hunting Style

President Johnson loves Beagles so much that he had two in the White House: Him and Her1. Him fathered two additional pups, called Freckles and Kim, that Johnson’s daughter, Luci, owned. Alas, Him’s strong prey drive got the best of him. He was run over and killed when he gave chase to a squirrel.

2. Brittany Spaniels Are Versatile Hunting Dogs

You can think of Brittany Spaniels as the Swiss Army Knife of gundogs. They can retrieve as well as point. They have the stamina to traverse all kinds of terrain. It helps that they have a keen sense of smell, too. This breed is so talented that it has received the prestigious Dual Championship (DC) title for both Champion of Record and Field Champion (FC), the most for any dog in the Sporting Group.

3. Beagles Came Across the Pond to the United States After the Civil War

Beagles are long-time favorite hunting dogs in England. When people started bringing them to America, it was love at first sight. They proved themselves just as capable gundogs here as in their native land. The Beagle joined the ranks of the AKC-recognized breeds in 1885, along with the St. Bernard and Bloodhound in the same year.

Parent Breeds of the Brittany Beagle
Image Credit: Jumpstory

Temperament & Intelligence of the Brittany Beagle 🧠

Their intelligence, combined with his willful nature, makes the Brittany Beagle a less than ideal choice for the first-time pet owner. They need someone that understands their temperament and can handle their independent personality. However, this pup can learn a wide range of skills. They’ll also make an excellent running companion or hiking partner for outdoorsy families.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 🏡

The friendly demeanor of the Brittany Beagle makes them a good family pet. He is kid-friendly and will keep up with them all day long. They’ll likely get as excited about play as the kids will. This pup is also very affectionate, even with strangers. They have a moderate tendency to nip. Both parent breeds bring a vocal nature to the mix, too.

Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets? 🐶 😽

Both parent breeds hunted with other dogs, so they often get along fine with other pets. Early socialization is essential to encourage this behavior. The strong prey drive of the Brittany Beagle may lead him to chase the family cat. It also raises concerns about other small animals the kids may own, such as rabbits or guinea pigs.

Divider 4Things to Know When Owning a Brittany Beagle:

Knowing that the Brittany Beagle is a bundle of energy only scratches the surface of what this dog has to offer as a family pet. The best way to find happiness with this pooch is to know what they need and other things that you should know upfront. Perhaps the perfect takeaway message is that this pup wants to run and play with you and your family every day.

Brittany dog and Beagle dog together on sunny hot day_Przemek Iciak_shutterstock
Image Credit: Przemek Iciak, Shutterstock

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

The Brittany Beagle is a medium-sized dog and needs a diet formulated for a pup of this stature. Despite their high energy level, this pooch has a tendency to gain weight. Monitor their food intake and activity. Remember that the directions on the label are only a suggestion. We recommend reserving treats as a training aid to tame their stubborn nature.

Food is the second leading category of expenses for owning a dog. Don’t skimp on it with a diet that isn’t right for the breed and life stage of your pet. The latter is especially important to prevent obesity. Puppy products are nutrient-dense to support their rapid growth during that critical first year. As a medium-sized pooch, your Brittany Beagle will reach their adult size at about one year.

Exercise 🐕

A Brittany Beagle not only needs exercise, but they’ll do best if they can run every day. Their easygoing nature makes them a willing playmate at the doggie park. However, you shouldn’t just leave this pup in the backyard. They crave human companionship and won’t tolerate being alone for long stretches. Daily walks are just the thing to reinforce the bonds between you and your pet.

Training 🦮

Intelligence is a double-edged sword with some dogs. That’s the case with the Brittany Beagle. It isn’t that they lack the enthusiasm to learn. It’s just that they also get bored quickly. Then, there’s that independent streak, too. That’s where the treats will come into play. They will make following your commands a no-brainer.

Grooming ✂️

Both parent breeds shed, so it won’t matter which one is dominant in the mix. If your pet is running in the yard all day long, it’s a smart idea to check their coat frequently for burrs and ticks. If there is more Brittany Spaniel in your dog, be sure to examine their ears occasionally for mites or other infections. We suggest getting your pup used to you handling their paws, so that nail trimming isn’t a chore.

Brushing the coat of your Brittany Beagle a couple of times a week will ensure that it stays healthy and matt-free. You may find it helpful to reward them for their efforts to sit still long enough for you to groom them.

Health and Conditions ❤️

The popularity of a breed sometimes works against it. That is the case with the Beagle. Joint problems are the primary concern. Therefore, we strongly urge you to only buy from breeders who have done the recommended health screenings. Many of these exams require a follow-up test later in your puppy’s development. Don’t neglect this vital task.

Minor Conditions
  • Eye infections
  • Hypothyroidism
Serious Conditions
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Heart issues
  • Intervertebral disc disease

Divider 5Male vs Female

Male and female Brittany Beagles are closely matched in size and temperament. Anecdotal observations point toward males being the more affectionate of the two sexes. We believe that it’s a matter of upbringing. However, we also suggest consulting with your veterinarian about neutering or spaying your pup when it is appropriate for your pet.

Divider 3Final Thoughts

To say that the Brittany Beagle is a bit of a handful is an understatement for this lively and happy dog. As with any breed that has a job, this pooch does best if they can get plenty of exercise and enough mental stimulation to keep them occupied. In return, you’ll have a loyal companion that will love you and your children as much as you do. This medium-sized pup promises a lot of fun and playtime.

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Featured Image Credit: Przemek Iciak, Shutterstock

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