Can Beagles live to 20
How Long Do Beagles Live? (and How to Increase Lifespan!)
Want to know how long beagles live? If you ask us, its never long enough! The average lifespan of a beagle is 12-15 years, but they have been known to live up to the ripe old age of 20. These hounds are relatively healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health and environmental issues.
In this post, well discuss the average lifespan of a beagle and what you can do to help your pup live a long and healthy life. So, how long do beagles live?
Beagle Lifespan: How Long Do Beagles Live?
Beagles typically live for 12-15 years, although some may live longer with good care. This is slightly higher than the average lifespan of most dog breeds, which is around 11 years.
There are a number of common factors that can affect how long a beagle lives, including:
1. Diet
Proper nutrition is essential for all dogs, but it is especially important for beagles, who are prone to obesity.
2. Physical Exercise
Beagles also need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and avoid coronary and joint problems later in life.
3. Mental Stimulation
Regular mental stimulation plays a big role in reducing stress and anxiety in beagles, which can lead to a longer lifespan.
4. Genetics
Some beagles may inherit health conditions that can shorten their lifespan.
By taking good care of your beagle and making sure they live a healthy lifestyle, you can help them enjoy a longer lifespan.
5 Common Causes of Beagle Deaths
We absolutely hate thinking about death when it comes to our beagles. But the fact is, beagles dont live forever and one day we will have to say goodbye.
While its impossible to predict exactly when that day will come, knowing the most common causes of beagle deaths can help us be better prepared, and enable us to take some preventative measures.
1. Cancer
Cancer is relatively common in dogs, and beagles are no exception. In fact, studies have shown that cancer affects over one in four dogs over the course of their lifetime.
The difficulty with this is that the symptoms are often not recognized until its too late, making it extremely challenging to provide treatment. Many types of chemotherapy used to treat cancer are simply not effective enough in dogs.
Beagles also tend to live relatively long lives, which gives them more opportunities to develop cancer. As a result, cancer is often the leading cause of death for beagles.
2. Accident / Trauma
As sad as it is, beagles are tragically prone to more accidents and trauma in comparison to many other breeds. The most common cause of accidental death in beagles is poisoning, followed by obstruction (choking on food or objects).
Beagles often put their noses where they dont belong, which can lead to them ingesting poisonous substances or becoming obstructed, often with household items such as socks.
While all dogs are at risk for these things, beagles are particularly vulnerable due to their curious and playful nature.
Beagles are also more likely to run off after a scent, putting them at a higher risk of being struck by a vehicle. As a result, it is important for beagle owners to take precautions to protect their pups from these dangers.
3. Obesity
Obesity is a serious problem in beagles, and can lead to a host of health problems including heart disease, diabetes, and joint pain. They are also more likely to suffer from respiratory difficulties and heat stroke if they are severely overweight.
More often than not, the root cause of obesity is overfeeding and under-exercising. Beagles are notoriously food-motivated, which can make it difficult for owners to resist giving them treats and table scraps. However, its important to resist the temptation to overindulge your beagle, and to stick to a healthy diet plan that includes plenty of exercise.
By taking these steps, you can help your beagle maintain a healthy weight and avoid the potentially deadly consequences of obesity.
4. Neurological
There are a variety of reasons why neurological disorders are a leading cause of death in beagles. For one, the breed is prone to seizures, which can be caused by a variety of factors including genetics, stress, and trauma.
Beagles are also susceptible to genetic conditions like Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, which often leads to dementia and other cognitive problems.
While there is no single cure for all of these conditions, early diagnosis and treatment are essential for improving the quality of life for affected dogs.
With the help of a veterinarian, owners can develop a care plan that includes medication, dietary changes, and other interventions to help their beagle live a longer and more comfortable life.
5. Allergies
Allergies can develop in a beagle at any age. When a beagle comes into contact with an allergen, their immune system overreacts and creates histamines. These histamines can cause a number of symptoms, including difficulty breathing, swelling of the airways, and an increased heart rate.
In severe cases, anaphylactic shock can occur, leading to death.
Allergies are often caused by environmental factors such as pollen or dust mites, but they can also be caused by certain foods or medications. Beagles who suffer from allergies require special care and attention to avoid serious health complications.
12 Ways to Improve Beagle Life Expectancy
Like many dog breeds, beagles have certain health and environmental risks that can shorten their life expectancy.
Fortunately, there are a number of things that pet parents can do to help their beagles live longer and healthier lives.
1. Plenty of Exercise
Research has shown that dogs that get plenty of exercise tend to have a longer lifespan than those who are inactive.
Exercise helps to keep your beagles heart healthy and lowers its risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. It helps to maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce the likelihood of developing joint problems later in life.
It also strengthens your beagles immune system, making them less likely to fall ill. Additionally, exercise is also known to release endorphins, which can help to improve mood and promote overall feelings of well-being.
So if youre looking for a way to improve your beagles life expectancy, providing them with plenty of exercise is a great place to start!
2. Know When to Keep On-Leash
We love nothing more than letting our beagles run free given the right environment, but in certain situations, they must be on a leash.
This is especially important when near roads or other hazards, as even the most well-trained beagle can get distracted and wander off into danger given the chance.
Beagles are also known for their strong sense of smell and high-food drive, and while this may seem like a harmless quirk, it can be dangerous if theyre not carefully monitored. They have been known to eat everything from garbage to toxic substances, sometimes leading to tragic consequences.
Keeping them on a leash in areas where they are likely to find food or run into the path of oncoming traffic can help prevent these accidents from happening and improve their life expectancy.
3. Well-Balanced Diet
Feeding your pup a well-balanced diet will help them stay healthy and happy for many years to come, and is very important for their overall health and well-being.
A good quality diet for a beagle should be high in protein and low in fat. It should also include fresh fruits and vegetables that are safe for them to eat. As beagles are very active dogs, its important to make sure they have enough calories to maintain their energy levels.
If you can, avoid buying commercial dog food brands that contain fillers or artificial ingredients.
By feeding them a nutritious diet, you can help improve your beagles life expectancy and prevent against many health problems.
4. Avoid Table Scraps
Beagles are notorious for begging for table scraps, and while it may be tempting to give in, this can actually shorten their overall life expectancy.
The problem is that most table scraps are high in fat, sugar, and calories, which can lead to a series of health problems.
Beagles are already prone to obesity, so its important to be mindful of their diet. They tend to gain weight easily, so its important to monitor their food intake and make sure theyre not overeating to reduce the risk of them becoming obese.
Table scraps can also cause gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and vomiting. If your beagle frequently begs for food at the table, its best to train them out of this behavior to help them live a healthier and longer life.
5. Beagle-Proof your Home
Beagle-proofing your home is one of the first steps you should take when you get a beagle. This means making sure that:
- Poisonous plants and substances are out of reach
- Small and confined spaces are blocked off
- Child gates are installed
- Trash can is secure
- Choking or stomach-blocking items removed (i.e socks)
- Fully fenced backyard to prevent escape
Beagles are curious by nature, and will often stick their nose where it doesnt belong! By taking the time to beagle-proof your home and remove all potential hazards, you can help to prevent accidents from happening and improve your beagles life expectancy.
6. Reduce Stress
Reducing your beagles levels of stress can help improve their life expectancy for a number of reasons. Stress can take a toll on the immune system, making your beagle more susceptible to diseases and infections.
It can also lead to digestive problems and a build-up of toxins in the body.
Stress can also cause behavioral problems that can harm your beagles health, such as excessive licking or chewing.
By reducing your beagles stress levels, you will help them to live a longer and healthier life.
There are a number of ways to reduce stress in beagles, such as providing them with plenty of exercise, socialization, and mental stimulation. You should also avoid leaving them alone for very long periods of time, as this can increase their anxiety levels.
7. Mental Stimulation
A beagles life expectancy is about 12-15 years, but you can help your pup live a longer, healthier life by providing them with plenty of mental stimulation. Just like humans, dogs need to exercise their brains to stay sharp as they age.
A beagle that isnt given enough mental stimulation can become bored, anxious, and even depressed leading to a host of health problems, both physical and mental.
Mental stimulation can take many forms, such as learning new tricks, playing interactive games, or solving puzzles. It not only keeps their minds active, but also helps to combat boredom and anxiety.
Providing your beagle with a mentally stimulating environment will help them to stay healthy and happy well into their golden years.
8. Train them consistently
Not only is training a great way to bond with your beagle, but it also helps keep them safe and healthy. A trained beagle is less likely to run into danger or get into fights with other animals. They are also more likely to listen to their owners when they are told to stop doing something that could be harmful, such as eating feces (poop) while out walking.
In addition, a well-trained dog is less likely to develop behavioral problems that can lead to stress and anxiety. Consistent training sessions using positive reinforcement will help your beagle learn behaviors such as sit, stay, come, and down.
Our favorite online training course for teaching a beagle to listen is K9TI Total Transformation Masterclass, or you can take your pick from this list based on their training needs.
As any dog owner knows, training takes time and patience, however, the effort is well worth it when you see your beagle happily responding to commands and learning new tricks.
9. Regular Vet Checks
One of the best things you can do for your beagle is to take them for regular vet checkups. These checkups can help identify potential health problems early on, when they are most easily treatable.
During a vet checkup, your beagle will receive a comprehensive physical exam, during which the vet will look for any signs of illness, injury, or new lumps and growths. They will be vaccinated against common diseases, which can help prevent them from ever becoming sick in the first place.
By providing your hound with regular vet checks, you can help to identify these problems early and take steps to treat them, which can potentially extend your beagles life by several years.
10. Get Them Neutered or Spayed
Getting your beagle neutered or spayed can help them live longer as they become less susceptible to infections and are likely to have fewer behavioral issues that lead to a traumatic or violent death.
This simple surgical procedure can reduce the chances of a male beagle from developing testicular tumors and prostate disease, and in female beagles can help with mammary, uterine, and ovarian cancer.
Neutering or spaying your beagle is relatively inexpensive and can help them live a longer and healthier life.
11. Good Dental Hygiene
Dogs rely on their teeth for many different activities, from eating and chewing to playing fetch. Thats why its so important to practice good dental hygiene for your beagle.
Just like in humans, the buildup of plaque and tartar on teeth can lead to gum disease, which can cause pain, loss of teeth, and other health problems.
Poor dental hygiene has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, kidney disease, and other serious illnesses.
By brushing your beagles teeth regularly and taking them for regular checkups and dental cleans, you can help ensure that they enjoy a long and healthy life.
12. Check for Ticks
Beagles love to explore the woods and long grass when out on walks, which is why its so important to check them for ticks after spending time in areas where these parasites hang out. Ticks can transmit diseases to dogs, which can make them very sick, and in some cases, can be fatal.
When checking your beagle for ticks, be sure to go over their entire body, including their ears, under their arms, and in between their toes. If you find one on your beagle, remove it immediately with a robust Tick Removal Tool or take them to the vet.
Beagles are relatively resilient dogs, but they are still susceptible to the dangers posed by ticks. By regularly checking your beagle for ticks, you can help to ensure that they stay healthy and free from disease.
Can Beagles Live Longer than 15 Years?
While the average lifespan of a beagle is 12 years, it is not uncommon for many to live over 15 years or longer. There are several factors that contribute to a beagles longevity, including diet, exercise, their environment, and genetics.
For example, beagles that are fed a high-quality diet and get plenty of exercise tend to live longer than those that dont. In addition, beagles that come from long-lived bloodlines are more likely to reach a ripe old age.
While theres no guarantee that your beagle will live to be at least 15 years old, taking good care of your pup will certainly give them a better chance at a long and happy life.
When is a Beagle Considered Old?
A beagle typically lives for 12-15 years, and they are considered to be an old beagle once they get to 80% of their life expectancy. This means that a beagle who has reached the age of 9-10 is considered to be a senior dog.
At this point in their lives, they may start to experience some age-related health problems, such as arthritis, vision and hearing loss, and kidney disease.
As they enter their twilight years, its important to keep an eye on their health and give them the love and care they need to enjoy their golden years.
With a little extra TLC, your senior beagle can still enjoy all the things they love from going for walks to snuggling on the couch for many years to come.
Oldest Beagle in the World
Butch was the oldest beagle in the world, living to the ripe old age of 28. He was born in 1975 in Virginia, USA and died in 2003.
He once held the Guinness World Record for the oldest living dog and is an example of how a beagle can live a long and happy life with the proper care.
Lifespan of a Beagle Mix Dog
Beagle-mix dogs usually have a lifespan that is slightly longer than purebred beagles. One of the reasons for this is that they tend to be less prone to certain hereditary health conditions.
For example, because they have a more diverse gene pool, they are less likely to develop heart disease or cancer.
In addition, beagle mixes often benefit from hybrid vigor, which means that they are able to better withstand environmental stressors. This can lead to a longer, healthier life.
While there are no guarantees when it comes to lifespan, a beagle-mix is typically a good choice for those looking for a dog with a long life expectancy.
Beagle Life Expectancy vs Other Breeds
When it comes to life expectancy, beagles are actually slightly higher than the average for most dog breeds. Beagles live around 12-15 years, while the average for all dog breeds is around 10-13 years.
So why is this?
Well, there are a few factors that come into play.
First of all, beagles are relatively small dogs, which tend to be associated with longer lifespans. They are also generally healthy dogs, with few major health concerns.
Of course, every individual dog is different and some beagles may not live as long as the average while others may exceed it. But overall, beagles tend to have a slightly higher life expectancy than other dog breeds.
However, beagles are not the longest-lived breed of dog. That distinction goes to the Chihuahua, which has an average lifespan of 15-20 years!
So, How Long Do Beagles Live?
Typically, beagles have a lifespan of 12-15 years, which is slightly higher than the average for dogs. This is due, in part, to the fact that beagles are relatively healthy dogs who do not suffer from many major health concerns.
While every beagle is different and some may live longer or shorter than the average, they generally have a good life expectancy. With proper care and attention, they can enjoy a long and happy life.
We hope this article was helpful in learning about how long beagles live.
Dive into a world of beagle stories, pro tips, and a tight-knit community of enthusiasts. Subscribe to our newsletter today!
