The Truth About “Pocket Beagles"

So, you're interested in a Pocket Beagle?

Let’s start by clearing up a very common misconception.

There is NO such recognized breed as a Miniature Beagle, Pocket Beagle, or any other name suggesting a separate, smaller version of the Beagle. These terms are marketing labels—not legitimate breed classifications.

There is only one officially recognized Beagle breed, and it comes in two size varieties:

13-inch variety
15-inch variety

Any Beagle measuring under 13 inches at the shoulder is still considered part of the 13-inch variety—including dogs that mature at 12 inches or slightly under.

Despite how they may be advertised, so-called “Pocket Beagles” are not a distinct type of Beagle. The term is often used to describe dogs that are either undersized, poorly bred, or crossed with other breeds in an effort to produce smaller dogs for profit. Size alone does not define quality, health, or adherence to the breed standard.

Understanding the difference between legitimate breed standards and marketing terminology is essential when choosing a breeder and making an informed, responsible decision.

“But Pocket Beagles used to exist!”

That’s true - historically.

In medieval times, there was a small scent hound commonly referred to as the Pocket Beagle. These dogs reportedly stood 8–9 inches at the shoulder and were small enough to be carried in a hunter’s saddlebag or “pocket,” which is how the name originated. They were valued for companionship and novelty rather than function in the field.

Queen Elizabeth I is famously said to have entertained guests by allowing her Pocket Beagles to romp across banquet tables, delighting onlookers with their tiny size and lively personalities. While charming, these dogs were very much a product of their time.

This historical type of Beagle no longer exists.

The original bloodlines were lost centuries ago, and with them, the genetics that defined those dogs. Today, Pocket Beagles are considered extinct, their legacy preserved only in written accounts and artwork.

So why do we still hear about “Pocket Beagles” today?

The term has been revived in modern times largely through social media and marketing, particularly on platforms like Instagram under hashtags such as #PocketBeagle. It’s not uncommon to see breeders claiming to produce them or owners sharing photos of unusually small dogs labeled as such.

However, modern “Pocket Beagles” are not a continuation of the historic dogs.

In most cases, dogs marketed under this label are produced by:

Intentionally breeding undersized Beagles together
Heavy inbreeding to reduce size
Crossbreeding with smaller breeds, most commonly Miniature Dachshunds

As a result, these dogs often display traits that are not part of the Beagle breed, including merle or blue coloring with snipey muzzles and buggy eyes. These features are not only undesirable within the breed standard but are also clear indicators of crossbreeding.

While these puppies may appear appealing at first glance, buyers are often paying a premium price for a dog with no predictable temperament, structure, health history, or breed integrity. As they mature, many lose the classic qualities that define a true Beagle.

Health Issues in
Pocket Beagles

If you were not aware of the major health issues that can occur and you do have a miniature Beagle dog, you must be aware of the very probable health issues.

The most common canine health problems to be aware of are:

Hypoglycemia - a fast drop in blood sugar which can be fatal
Organs that do not develop properly - This can cause everything from heart failure to liver problems
Tooth disease
Diabetes
Glaucoma
Increased risk of luxating patella and hip dysplasia
Temperment issues due to being mixed with unknown breeds.

Your smaller than average dog should not be expected to be able to handle all of the activities of the standard Beagle.

A Responsible Choice Matters.

Supporting the sale of so-called “Pocket Beagles” does not preserve history, it rewards unethical breeding practices that prioritize size and novelty over health, function, and welfare. Every purchase fuels demand, and demand encourages the continued production of dogs bred without regard for long-term well-being.

Choosing a responsibly bred Beagle means choosing transparency, health testing, and respect for the breed as a whole. It means valuing soundness over shortcuts and integrity over trends.

Puppy appeal is universal.
True quality breed type is not.

Above are poorly fully mature bred Beagles being sold marketed as "Pocket Beagles". Once you know what to look for, the difference is impossible to unsee. Choose breeders who protect the breed - not trends that compromise it.

The Truth About “Pocket Beagles"

A Responsible Choice Matters.

Puppy appeal is universal. True quality breed type is not.

Puppy appeal is universal.
True quality breed type is not.