Beagles are one of America’s favorite dogs. Not only are they fun, friendly, and cute, but they are also sweet, affectionate, and great with children and other dogs. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), they consistently rank in the top ten most popular breeds. So with many families looking to welcome a Beagle into their home, it’s essential to consider what this could cost you.
There are two sizes of Beagles, and for this average cost guide, we lump them into one. Beagles are small to medium size dogs but have an incredible appetite for their small size. They are also very curious creatures, thanks to their powerful tracking abilities. So considering insurance for your Beagle should be at the top of your pricing priorities. Sometimes Beagles can get into sticky situations, and some families might require extra financial support to take care of them.
Being a dog parent is a fantastic privilege, but it also comes with great responsibility. Part of that responsibility is ensuring you can take care of their needs and be ready for unexpected costs. We examine everything, from Beagle puppy prices to feeding them, training, medical care, and much more. So, let’s break down the costs that you need to consider.
What Does A Beagle Puppy Cost?
The price of a healthy purebred Beagle puppy from an ethical breeder can range between $500 and $2,000. If you are searching for a Beagle pup from a champion hunting or show line or popular breeder, you can expect to pay much more than this.
A healthy Beagle puppy from a responsible and high-quality breeder costs more than a puppy from an irresponsible breeder. Puppies without papers are less costly than those with registration and health documents. Beagles from shelters often have lower fees than those from breeders, although it’s rare to find a Beagle puppy in a shelter. And mixed Beagle breeds are usually less expensive than pedigree Beagles. However, it depends on what breed they are mixed with and how popular they are at the time of purchase.
How To Calculate Beagle Costs
Every family and every Beagle is different, which means that the cost of your Beagle differs from the family down the street who also has a Beagle. For this reason, it isn’t easy to provide a one-size-fits-all approach. The prices here are to give our readers an average minimum realistic figure. Not every family needs help with training or walking during the day, and not everyone wants a champion bloodline pup. Plus, there are always unexpected costs to factor in, such as emergency medical care that you cannot predict but must be able to cover.
The initial puppy price is just the cost of the puppy. Usually, nothing else is included. You must equip your home with everything your puppy needs, such as beds, crates, toys, harnesses, and much more too. This means that the first year of owning a Beagle is usually one of the most expensive. You can expect to pay between $500 and $800 for supplies in their first year.
All puppies in their first year need extra medical attention in the form of developmental check-ups, vaccinations, and other medical procedures such as worming. A typical first-year medical care bill can cost around $1,000. When you add this to the initial puppy price and a general annual cost, you can expect to pay around $5,840 in their first year.
After the first year, Beagles typically cost a minimum of $2,940 to care for every year. The average lifespan of a Beagle is between 10 and 15 years. When you multiply the annual cost by their average lifespan, plus the initial first-year cost, expect their lifetime cost to be a minimum of $42,590. There are extra services or fees that some families need, too. So the lifetime cost could be much more than this, depending on your needs and circumstances.
Average Cost Of English Bulldog
Initial Puppy Price & Supplies$5,840
Yearly Costs$2,940
Minimum Lifetime Cost$42,590
Factors That Affect Puppy Price
Let’s explore some of the most significant factors.
Age
The dog’s age at the time of purchase significantly affects the price tag. Puppies aged between 8 to 12 weeks are usually the most expensive. This is the cute puppy stage that all families want to enjoy. Puppies who don’t find a home straight away tend to reduce in price to entice someone to buy them. So, if you don’t mind missing out on the first few weeks to months, you can save a reasonable amount. Adult beagles from shelters are usually much cheaper than puppies.
Health
Responsible breeders screen their dogs for hereditary health conditions. This takes extra effort, time, and money which they have to pass on to buyers. Responsible breeders provide the relevant health certificates to prove this. Although you are never guaranteed a super healthy pup, the chances of them being healthy are much higher than pups from breeders who do not screen their dogs. Reputable breeders also socialize their pups, preparing them for family life, which is just as important.
Although this comes at an extra cost, it is worth spending more on a healthy and happy pup. Don’t be tempted to save money by buying a cheap puppy because they might come from unhealthy parents or be ill themselves. Plus, they might have behavioral issues due to not being socialized or being split from their parents too early. Many who have bought cheap pups have had to spend much more on medical expenses or training their dog to rectify the problems.
Litter Size
The size of a litter can also determine the cost of a puppy. If a litter is small or the mother doesn’t produce regular litters, breeders price their puppies higher. Larger litters means that puppies can be priced cheaper. A reliable mother who produces regular and healthy litters means breeders can lower their prices slightly. However, breeders must allow their dogs a rest period in between so that they remain healthy and strong. Not to churn puppies out as puppy mills do.
Bloodline
This is one of the most influential factors. Puppies from a healthy, purebred bloodline are most in demand. Plus, pedigree dogs are more expensive to raise, which has to be reflected in the puppy price. Puppies from mixed-Beagle breeds are less expensive to care for and less in demand, so they are usually cheaper.
Purpose
Beagles from champion lines or traditional hunting families are more expensive than pups from standard litters. Hunting dogs or those from award-winning families have had more resources put into them, such as training and medical care, and therefore cost more. Plus, it also means the pup is more likely to be healthy and award-winning themselves, which makes them more desirable.
Appearance
Although the color of a Beagle pup shouldn’t affect the price too much, there are some occasions when it can. The AKC recognizes 25 Beagle colors, although only 11 are acceptable in the show ring. Beagles with one of these traditional hound colors are the most desirable, mainly black, tan, and white. However, more infrequent colors, such as an all-white or lemon and white, are sometimes marketed as “rare” and have a higher price tag. However, it would be best if you were wary of these breeders as they have probably bred them for color over health.
Location
Where you buy your puppy from is another highly influential factor in price. Buying your pup from a reputable breeder in a city is likely to cost more than a puppy from the country as their living costs are higher. Plus, locations in the middle of nowhere often have lower-priced pups to entice customers to travel to them. The time of year you buy your pup can also affect the price. Families prefer to buy puppies in the spring and summertime to enjoy longer and lighter days. This makes the demand and price tags higher.
Cost For Beagles
There are two Beagles sizes, but they weigh 30 pounds and under, making them a small to medium-sized breed. This means they need small to medium-sized equipment, which commands an average or just below price tag for the equipment they need, such as beds, harnesses, crates, etc. If you buy high-quality equipment, you can expect it to last longer than cheaper products, saving you money in the long run.
Let’s take a look at the costs of owning a Beagle. Please remember that our research and figures are estimates rather than exact prices, as every family, dog, and circumstance changes throughout their lifetime.
Food
Dogs need food, which can be one of the most expensive costs depending on various factors. Although Beagles are medium-sized breeds, they’d happily eat the same as a Mastiff if they were allowed to. To keep them healthy, they need a high-quality diet of moderate proportions. Be sure not to overindulge them. Otherwise, they are likely to become overweight and unhealthy, which also costs you more in the long run.
There are a variety of diet options to choose from, such as kibble, fresh food, and raw nutrition. The option you pick for your Beagle determines how much you spend on food. Kibble is usually the cheaper option, but there are many high-quality kibbles. On average, a 30-pound bag of food costs around $50. So you can expect to pay about $30 a month for food. You can expect to pay even more if you choose a better-than-average diet or a high-protein, fresh, or raw diet.
Beagles need appropriate food for their age, especially during puppyhood when their body is developing. Feeding an age-appropriate diet can decrease the chances of developing orthopedic problems. Hip dysplasia is seen in the Beagle bloodline, and feeding your Beagle the appropriate diet can lower the risks of developing it. If your Beagle needs a diet with specific needs, such as weight management or a sensitive stomach diet, the price of the food tends to be higher.
Basic Medical Care & Medications
Visiting the vet for regular check-ups is essential for your Beagle. They help to identify medical problems before they become too serious or untreatable, such as hereditary cardiac concerns. All dogs should be wormed regularly too. Some Beagles need regular medication to manage a health condition and supplements to improve their health or diet. Dog owners should factor in $30 every month for medical care. Your Beagle might not need this every month, but you should be prepared for costs like these.
Emergency Medical Care
Emergency medical care tends to be one of the most costly expenses for a dog owner. Thankfully not every dog needs emergency care, but many do at some point during their lifetime. Especially for such a curious and hungry canine like a Beagle, you never know what the future has in store for your Beagle’s health. In most emergencies, costs usually exceed $1,000. It’s helpful to consider investing in a pet insurance policy for your Beagle or setting money aside monthly towards an emergency Fido fund.
Pet Insurance
Beagles are relatively healthy dog breeds with an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years. However, as you probably already know, Beagles are curious canines with a never-ending appetite, which means they often become injured or eat something they shouldn’t. Although pet insurance isn’t a requirement, and not every family needs it, you must consider it. Insurance policies can help most families cover the costs of emergency care, treatment, wellness plans, and more. There is a wide selection of insurance plans suitable for Beagles.
The price of a monthly insurance policy depends on various factors, such as age, breed, location, medical needs, and more. According to NAPHIA (North American Pet Health Insurance Association), the average monthly premium for an accident and illness insurance policy in the U.S. in 2022 was $53.34 for dogs. To get the right insurance policy, be sure to get multiple quotes from top-rated companies. There are many things to consider when finding the best pet insurance for your Beagle.
Dental Care
Taking care of your Beagle’s dental hygiene is crucial because it can lower their life expectancy and lead to further health problems such as organ damage. Dental care can be costly, especially if you don’t establish a dental regime from a young age. The average professional dental cleaning fee falls between $100 and $700. Examination and further treatment cost much more. Some insurance policies do not include dental care, whereas others do but at an additional cost.
Grooming
Not every Beagle needs the services of a professional groomer. However, if you haven’t got the time or are unsure how to, you might need to find one. Professional dog groomers typically charge between $10 and $100 for one session. You can expect the cost of a Beagle session to be somewhere in the middle of this or just below. However, if your Beagle is difficult to handle or has particular grooming needs, they will likely charge extra.
Other Supplies
There are many other things that all dogs need, such as crates, beds, harnesses, bowls, and more. Some of these items might be suitable after their first year if they continue to fit your Beagle and are high-quality. However, some items might need to be replaced if they outgrow or break them. Other supplies, such as treats, toys, poop bags, and more, need continuous replacement.
Additional Costs
Here we outline the additional costs that dog owners might need to consider. However, these are not essential, and not every family needs or wants them. Some pup parents might want to treat their pups to a doggy spa day. Other families invest in a GPS fencing system like Halo, which might be a sound investment for an inquisitive Beagle. We haven’t factored these costs into our figures above because not every family needs them. But let’s take a quick look at them to give you an idea about what they might cost.
Professional Training
Some Beagle owners might need assistance when it comes to training their stubborn Beagle, and others might need extra help with hunting or show-ring training. There are also some Beagles that develop behavioral issues that need professional correction. A typical rate for a general-purpose dog trainer is around $50 an hour. Expect this to rise between an average of $80 and $100 an hour for one-to-one or more specialist training. Some trainers, such as Doggy Dan, provide a convenient and affordable solution for owners seeking training assistance.
Walking
Beagles are active dogs that need daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Their nose and scenting skills are second to none and need daily sniffing satisfaction. They need between 60 and 75 minutes of daily activity to keep them stimulated. Many families can accommodate their needs, but sometimes a change in circumstances means they cannot fulfill this. If so, a dog walker might be needed to help out.
The cost of a dog walker depends on various factors, including location, size, exercise, and family needs. Some owners prefer or need a one-to-one service, which costs more. Other Beagles are suitable for group walkies, which are often cheaper too. Some dog walkers offer discounts for regular service users. National companies such as Wag or Rover provide services, and fees range from $10 to $20 an hour.
Boarding, Dog Sitting & Daycare
The costs of boarding, dog sitting, and doggy daycare range depending on your needs and circumstances. These services might be required occasionally, such as vacations or events where you cannot take your puppy. Basic day boarding typically costs around $50, whereas daycare can cost between $10 and $100.
SuppliesAverage Cost
Food$30
Medical Care & Medications$30
Emergency Care$25
Pet Insurance$50
Grooming$30
Grooming Supplies$20
Dental Care$10
Nail Clipping$15
Toys$15
Treats$10
Cleaning Supplies$10
Total$245
Total$245
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Beagles Expensive?
When it comes to costs, Beagles are usually average. They are small to medium breeds, which are relatively healthy. However, they are very curious canines with an endless appetite, which can mean they are prone to accidents and consuming dangerous items and food, which can be costly. You never know what the future might bring you and your Beagle, so it’s hard to say how expensive your Beagle might be.
How Much Do White Beagles Cost?
The price of a Beagle puppy should not be determined by their color, unlike some breeds. Be wary of breeders who advertise an “all-white” Beagle as a rare specimen with an increased price tag. Many all-white Beagle puppies usually develop color as they mature. Plus, all-white Beagles are more at risk of congenital health issues. You also need to be sure that they don’t suffer from albinism which also means additional health problems.
Can I Adopt A Beagle Puppy From A Rescue Shelter?
Finding a Beagle puppy in a rescue shelter is extremely rare. And if you find a Beagle puppy you like in a shelter, don’t hang around because someone else will snap them up quickly. You are more likely to find an adult Beagle in a shelter. The fees for adopting an adult Beagle are significantly lower than buying a puppy from a breeder.
How Important Is It To Buy A Beagle Puppy With Papers?
This depends on what you want from your Beagle puppy. Papers are another word for documents such as proof of registration with a kennel club, such as the AKC and health certificates. If you don’t intend to enter your dog into shows or competitions or breed them, registration documents might not be that important to you. Buying a puppy from a breeder who can provide health certificates is recommended. This increases your chances of buying a healthy pup, meaning lower costs in the future.
Final Thoughts
Now you know how much a Beagle might cost you throughout their lifetime. It is difficult to put an exact price on it because every dog, family, and circumstance is different. Plus, it changes throughout the course of their lifetime. The figures above are to help you understand what a realistic minimum cost could look like. We estimate that a purebred Beagle can cost a minimum of $42,590 over their lifetime. This doesn’t include any special requirements or extras beyond basic care. Although this might seem like a lot, Beagles return the favor with as much love as you could wish for.
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