Kerry Beagle

The Kerry Beagle: The forgotten jewel of the Irish dog world

Historical roots of the Kerry Beagle

The Kerry Beagle is considered to be one of the oldest Irish dog breeds. Its origins can be traced back to the Middle Ages. It is believed that these dogs are descended from Celtic hunting dogs and were originally bred to hunt deer and other wild animals. Despite its name, the Kerry Beagle has no direct connection to the well-known English Beagles, but is unique in its kind.

Who is the Kerry Beagle suitable for?

The Kerry Beagle is an active, intelligent dog that is well suited to families looking for a lively and loyal companion. It loves to be part of family life and needs regular exercise and mental stimulation. This breed is ideal for people who enjoy being outdoors and are willing to give their dog plenty of attention and exercise.

Character and behavior

The Kerry Beagle is known for its friendly and even-tempered nature. These dogs are loyal, playful and particularly patient with children. They have a strong hunting instinct and can therefore sometimes display an independent spirit. Nevertheless, they are very people-oriented and love to spend time with their families.

Appearance of the Kerry Beagle

The Kerry Beagle is a medium-sized dog with a muscular and robust build. They typically have a short, dense coat that comes in a variety of colors including black, white, brown and sometimes tricolor. Their long ears and expressive gaze give them a charming and distinctive look.

Care of the Kerry Beagle

Grooming the Kerry Beagle is relatively uncomplicated. Their short coat needs to be brushed regularly to remove loose hair and keep their skin healthy. As these dogs are active, their claws should be trimmed regularly and their teeth brushed. A balanced diet and regular visits to the vet contribute to their health and well-being.

Health and life expectancy

Kerry Beagles are generally robust dogs with a life expectancy of around 10-14 years. As with all breeds, they can be prone to certain health problems, including hip dysplasia and ear infections. Regular check-ups at the vet are therefore important.

Size and weight

Adult Kerry Beagles reach a shoulder height of around 56 to 66 cm and weigh between 23 and 27 kg. This size makes them strong yet agile dogs.

Exercise and habitat

Kerry Beagles are very active dogs that need a lot of exercise. Daily long walks and playtime are a must. They are not ideally suited to living in small city apartments unless they get enough exercise. A home with a garden or an active lifestyle with lots of outdoor activities would be ideal.

Training and socialization

These intelligent dogs learn quickly, but need consistent and loving training. Early socialization and obedience training are important to control their hunting instincts and ensure they get along well with other dogs and people.

Grooming instructions in detail

In addition to basic grooming, the Kerry Beagle's ears should be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent infection. Teeth cleaning is also important to prevent dental disease. A regular health check at the vet's helps to identify potential problems at an early stage.

Behavior and interactions

Kerry Beagles are sociable animals and get along well with children and other pets, especially if they have been socialized early. Their friendly and tolerant nature makes them ideal family dogs. However, you should always keep an eye on their interactions to ensure that everyone involved is safe and happy.

FCI recognition

The Kerry Beagle is not recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), but this does not make it any less special. It remains a valued part of Irish heritage and a loyal companion for many dog lovers.