The Ultimate Guide to Beagle Nutrition: Keeping Your Pup Healthy and Happy

When it comes to nutrition, every dog is different, but Beagles have some specific needs that are important to keep in mind. Just like us, Beagles need a balanced diet that includes a variety of different nutrients in the right proportions.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

Feel free to skip ahead to a specific section if you need, with that said, let’s jump in with understanding your beagle’s nutritional needs.

Understanding Beagle Nutritional Needs

First, let’s talk about protein. Beagles are active and energetic dogs, so they need a diet that is high in protein to support their muscles and overall growth. A good source of protein for Beagles is meat, fish or poultry.

Next, let’s talk about fats. Fats are an important source of energy for Beagles, but it’s important to choose healthy fats like those found in fish and olive oil. Fats also help keep their skin and coat healthy.

Carbohydrates are also important for Beagles as they provide energy and help maintain a healthy gut. Whole grains like brown rice, barley, and oats are good choices.

Vitamins and minerals are also essential for a Beagle’s overall health. They help with everything from maintaining a strong immune system to keeping their bones and teeth healthy. Look for foods that are high in vitamins and minerals like vitamins A, C, E, and D, calcium, and phosphorus.

Finally, Beagles need water to stay hydrated. Make sure your Beagle has access to fresh, clean water at all times.

It’s worth noting that Beagles can be prone to obesity so it’s important to monitor their weight and adjust their food accordingly. It’s always a good idea to consult with your vet to create a personalised nutrition plan that fits your Beagle’s needs.

The Types of Beagle Food Available

When it comes to feeding your Beagle, there are a few different options to choose from. Dry kibble is a popular choice because it’s convenient and easy to store. Wet food can be a good option for dogs who have a hard time eating dry kibble, or for those who need to increase their water intake. Some owners also choose to feed their Beagles raw food, which is often made up of uncooked meats and vegetables. This type of diet is based on the idea that dogs should eat the same type of food as their wild ancestors. It’s important to keep in mind that every dog is different and what works for one may not work for another, so it’s always a good idea to consult with your vet to determine the best diet for your furry friend.

Pros & Cons of each type of Beagle Food

To help you get a good idea of the types of diet available to Beagles, here’s an overview and some pros & cons to each diet.

Dry kibble:

Pros:

Convenient and cost-effective option for feeding your Beagle.
It has a long shelf life and can be easily stored.
Kibble can also help to keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy by promoting chewing.

Cons:

Some dogs may have a hard time eating dry kibble, especially if they have dental issues or are older.

Wet Food:

Pros:

Wet food can be a good alternative for dogs who have trouble eating dry kibble.
It has a softer texture and higher moisture content, which can be more appealing to some dogs.
Wet food can also help to increase your dog’s water intake, which can be beneficial for dogs who are prone to dehydration.

Cons:

Wet food can be more expensive than dry kibble and has a shorter shelf life.

Raw food

Raw food is a type of diet that is based on the idea that dogs should eat the same type of food as their wild ancestors. Raw food typically consists of uncooked meats and vegetables. Some owners choose to feed their dogs raw food because they believe it is more natural and closer to what dogs would eat in the wild.

However, there are some risks associated with raw food diets. Raw meat can contain bacteria that can be harmful to dogs and people, and it can be expensive to prepare.

Additionally, it’s important to follow a balanced diet plan for your dog, as there are some concerns that a diet of just raw food may not provide all the necessary nutrients for a dog’s growth and health. Therefore, it’s recommended to consult with a veterinarian before starting this type of diet.

Overall, it’s important to consider your dog’s individual needs and preferences when choosing a type of food. Consult with your vet to determine the best diet for your Beagle.

The Best Beagle Foods Available in 2023

Below are some of our favourite beagle foods, road tested by my dog Bella! We have larger list of foods available in our dedicated guide.

Best Vet Recommended Wet Food Overall: Lily’s Kitchen Wet Food

Pros of Lily’s Kitchen Wet Food

All-natural, nutritionally complete, wet dog food.
Made with freshly prepared meat, vegetables, fruits and herbs
Made with proper meat – no meat meal, no bone meal, no rendered meat
No derivatives, preservatives or fillers – natural and healthy dog food
Super tasty – your Beagle will love it.
Also available in puppy form

Best Vet Recommended Dry Food Overall: Royal Canin Beagle Adult Dry Food

Pros of Royal Canin Beagle Dry Food

Well known, vet recommended and accredited brand
Contains a specific formula, enriched with Omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA & DHA, to help support the health of your Beagle’s bones and joints
Contains a combination of fibres that give your Beagle a more full feeling and helps to support healthy digestion and regulated stool production
Star shaped kibble slows down your beagle eating and encourages chewing, rather than inhaling!
Cost effective 12kg bag
Suitable for Beagle’s over 12 months old
Also available in puppy form

Feeding Your Beagle: How Much and How Often

When it comes to feeding your Beagle, the amount and frequency of food will depend on a few different factors like their age, weight, and activity level.

First, let’s talk about age. Puppies, for example, will have different nutritional needs than adult Beagles, so the serving size will be different. Puppies need more calories per pound of body weight than adult Beagles, and they also need to eat more frequently.

Weight is also an important factor to consider. A larger Beagle will need more food than a smaller one, and vice versa. It’s important to keep your Beagle at a healthy weight, so adjust the serving size accordingly if they are gaining or losing weight.

Finally, activity level is another important factor to consider. An active Beagle will need more food than a less active one. If your Beagle is a couch potato, you’ll want to adjust their food accordingly, so they don’t become overweight.

It’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian to help you determine the appropriate serving size for your Beagle. They can take into account all of these factors and help you create a personalised nutrition plan for your pup.

In general terms, a good rule of thumb for serving size is about 2-3% of your dog’s ideal body weight per day, but this can vary depending on their age, weight and activity level.

The importance of feeding Beagles on a regular schedule

Feeding your beagle on a regular schedule is important for several reasons.

Maintaining a healthy weight: When you feed your beagle on a regular schedule, you can better control their portion sizes and ensure they’re getting the right amount of food to maintain a healthy weight.

Promoting good digestion: Regular feeding schedules can help regulate your beagle’s digestion and prevent stomach upset.

Establishing a routine: Beagles thrive on routine, feeding your Beagle at the same time every day will help them know when it’s time to eat and it will also help them feel more comfortable and secure.

Avoiding behavioural issues: If a beagle is constantly looking for food and is not fed on a regular schedule it may develop behavioural issues such as food aggression or constant begging.

Keeping track of changes in appetite: Feeding your beagle on a regular schedule allows you to easily notice if they are eating less than usual, which could be a sign of an underlying health issue.

It’s essential to establish a feeding schedule that works for you and your beagle. Be consistent with the schedule and try not to deviate from it. If you need to make changes, do it gradually to avoid upset stomach and diarrhoea.

Tips for avoiding common feeding mistakes

It’s very easy to fall into the trap of some of these common feeding mistakes, such as over and underfeeding, here’s some tips for avoiding them:

Don’t overfeed: Beagles have a tendency to become overweight, so it’s important to watch their portion sizes and not give them too much food. Use a measuring cup to ensure you’re giving them the right amount.
Don’t underfeed: On the other hand, make sure you’re also not underfeeding your beagle. They need enough food to maintain a healthy weight and energy level.
Watch out for table scraps: Beagles love to beg for food, but it’s important to not give in and feed them table scraps. Many human foods can be harmful to dogs, so stick to their regular dog food.
Be mindful of treats: Treats should only make up a small portion of your beagle’s diet. Be mindful of how many treats you’re giving them and try to choose healthy options.
Consult with your vet: If you have any concerns about your beagle’s diet or weight, consult with your vet. They can help you determine the right amount of food for your dog based on their age, activity level, and overall health.

Overall, the key to feeding your beagle is to be mindful of their portion sizes and to make sure they’re getting the right balance of nutrients to maintain a healthy weight and energy level.

Determining if your Beagle has Special Dietary Needs

As a Beagle owner, it’s important to be aware of the potential health conditions that may affect your furry friend.

Common Beagle Food Allergies

One of the most common issues that Beagles may face is food allergies. These can be caused by certain ingredients in their food, such as wheat, soy, or chicken. Symptoms of food allergies in Beagles can include itchy skin, recurrent ear infections, and gastrointestinal issues. If you suspect your Beagle has a food allergy, it’s important to work with your vet to identify the offending ingredient and switch to a hypoallergenic diet.

What if Your Beagle is Overweight?

Another common issue that Beagles may face is weight management. As a small to medium-sized breed and a food lover, Beagles can be prone to becoming overweight or obese. This can put them at risk for health issues such as diabetes, joint problems, and heart disease. To help maintain a healthy weight for your Beagle, it’s important to monitor their diet and exercise levels. This may include switching to a lower calorie diet, or measuring out precise portions to ensure they’re not overeating.

It’s also important to note that Beagles have a tendency to be cheeky pigs and will attempt to eat anything they can find, so it’s important to keep an eye on their diet to ensure they’re getting the right balance of nutrients.

It is always recommended to consult with a vet to know the right diet plan for your Beagle. They will be able to recommend the best diet for your dog based on their specific health needs.

How to identify if your Beagle has a special dietary need

There are a few signs that your Beagle may have a special dietary need.

If they are consistently losing or gaining weight despite being fed a normal amount of food.
If they have chronic diarrhoea or constipation.
If your Beagle is experiencing dry, itchy skin or excessive shedding

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to speak with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your pet. They may recommend a different type of food or a specialised diet to address your Beagle’s dietary needs.

Recommendations for appropriate diets for Beagles with special dietary needs

When it comes to Beagles with special dietary needs, there are a few options you can consider.

Grain-free diet

A grain-free diet can be beneficial for Beagles with food allergies or sensitivities because it eliminates certain grains such as wheat and corn, common allergens for dogs. A grain-free diet can also be beneficial for Beagles with other medical conditions such as allergies, digestive issues, or even diabetes. Such conditions can be exacerbated by the presence of grains in the diet:

Our recommended food for a grain-free diet:

Harringtons Complete Grain Free Hypoallergenic Chicken & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food:

Low-Fat Diet

Another option is a low-fat diet, which can be helpful for Beagles who are overweight or have certain medical conditions. Additionally, you may want to consider a high-protein diet, which can be beneficial for Beagles who are active or working dogs.

Our recommended food for a low-fat diet:

Wellness CORE Adult Low Fat, Dry Dog Food

As always, best to consult your vet before making changes to your beagles diet and to help determine the best diet for your dog’s specific needs. They may also recommend a veterinary-prescription diet which is specially formulated to address certain health conditions.

It’s also worth noting that it’s important to transition your Beagle to a new diet gradually over a period of a week or two to avoid any digestive upset.

Final thoughts

To summarise:

Beagles have specific nutritional needs that include a balanced diet with a variety of different nutrients in the right proportions.
Beagles require a diet high in protein to support their muscles and overall growth.
Beagles need healthy fats such as those found in fish and olive oil to keep their skin and coat healthy.
Beagles require carbohydrates for energy and to maintain a healthy gut.
Beagles need vitamins and minerals to maintain a strong immune system and healthy bones and teeth.
Beagles need access to fresh, clean water to stay hydrated.
Beagles can be prone to obesity and it’s important to monitor their weight and adjust their food accordingly.
Different types of Beagle food available include dry kibble, wet food, and raw food.

As always, consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet for your Beagle based on individual needs and preferences.

What should I feed my Beagle?

Beagles are small to medium-sized dogs that have a high energy level and a strong sense of smell. They are also known to be food-motivated and can become overweight if they are not given the proper diet. To ensure that your Beagle stays healthy and happy, it is important to provide them with a well-balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs.
A balanced diet for a Beagle should include a combination of high-quality protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Meat, fish, and poultry are good sources of protein, while carbohydrates can be found in grains like rice, oats, and barley. Fats can be found in oils, such as fish oil, and in small amounts in meat and dairy products. Vitamins and minerals can be found in fruits and vegetables, as well as in specially formulated dog supplements.
It is important to note that Beagles have a tendency to become overweight, so it is important to monitor their food intake and adjust their portion sizes as needed. In addition, Beagles have a tendency to develop food allergies, so it is important to be mindful of any adverse reactions they may have to certain ingredients.

How much should I feed my Beagle?

The amount of food that you should feed your Beagle will depend on their age, weight, and activity level. Adult Beagles should be fed a diet that provides them with approximately 25-30 calories per pound of body weight per day. This can be achieved by feeding them 1-1.5 cups of high-quality dog food per day, divided into two meals.
Puppies, on the other hand, have different nutritional needs and should be fed a diet specifically formulated for growth and development. Puppies should be fed 3-4 small meals per day, with the amount of food increasing as they grow. It is also important to note that Beagles have a tendency to become overweight, so it is important to monitor their food intake and adjust their portion sizes as needed.
It is important to note that Beagles have a tendency to become overweight, so it is important to monitor their food intake and adjust their portion sizes as needed. In addition, Beagles have a tendency to develop food allergies, so it is important to be mindful of any adverse reactions they may have to certain ingredients.

What are the best protein sources for Beagles?

Beagles require a diet that is high in protein in order to maintain their energy levels and support muscle development. The best protein sources for Beagles include meat, fish, and poultry. Some examples of high-quality protein sources include chicken, turkey, lamb, beef, fish, and eggs.
It is important to note that Beagles have a tendency to develop food allergies, so it is important to keep an eye on your beagle for any reactions and consult your vet if something looks amiss.