Beagles are a longtime favorite pick for family dogs due to their agreeable personalities, medium size, and overall happy temperament. If you are already the proud pet parent of a Beagle or are considering bringing an adorable puppy into your home, you may have questions about the best diet for this breed. Beagles love food, so it’s important not to overfeed them. With their smaller build, extra weight can cause a lengthy list of health issues. I’ve done the research to create this Beagle feeding chart as a reference to help ensure your pup is eating the right amount of food. Let’s get into it.
Dietary Concerns For Beagles
Beagles have a few health concerns that can affect their diet. They are prone to allergies and food sensitivity. Getting an at-home allergy test can be very helpful with keeping your Beagle pup healthy and picking the best diet for them. They are also colossal eaters and will not stop of their own accord if left to free feed. Puppies are expected to have a little extra pudge, but adults can quickly pack on the pounds. They have a high rate of diabetes even at a healthy weight. Beagles are also prone to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can cause digestive issues, pain, loss of appetite, and more.
There are two sizes of Beagles. The smaller weighs under 20 pounds and stands 13 inches tall. The larger size reaches 20 to 30 pounds and stands 13 to 15 inches tall. Carrying extra weight on their smaller frames can lead to bone and joint issues, which can later affect mobility.
Beagle Feeding Chart By Age & Weight
| Age | Type Of Food | Cups Per Day | Meals Per Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0-3 weeks | Mother’s Milk and Puppy Mush | n/a | unlimited |
| 4 – 6 weeks | Mother’s Milk and Puppy Mush | n/a | unlimited |
| 6 – 8 weeks | Mother’s Milk and Puppy Mush | n/a | 4 – 6 |
| 8 weeks to 6 months | Puppy Mush/Puppy Kibble | 1/4 – 1/2 | 3 – 4 |
| 6 – 10 months | Puppy Kibble | 1/2 – 1 | 3 – 4 |
| 10 – 18 months | Puppy Kibble/Adult Dog Food | 1 1/2 – 2 | 3 |
| 18 Months and up | Adult Dog Food | 1 1/2 – 2 | 2 |
How Much To Feed A Beagle Puppy
Healthy, balanced nutrition is one of the building blocks of a long, healthy life for your Beagle. A balanced diet is a key component in their overall development. Because they are a breed that loves to eat anything and everything and are very food-motivated, it is important to maintain a healthy weight from early puppyhood throughout their senior years. Overfeeding is a primary health concern among the Beagle breed.
Beagle puppies need meals with higher fat, protein, and calories than adult dogs. Puppies need smaller meals more frequently throughout the day to replenish their energy. Puppies’ dietary needs change rapidly, so you will need to change the amount they eat regularly. They will eat anywhere from 1/4 cup to about a cup and 1/2 or more each day. Adult Beagles eat between 1 1/2 to two cups of food each day.
Weeks 0 – 3
Beagle puppies are born blind and deaf and rely on their mothers for survival. For these first few weeks, they should be with their mother and will get everything they need nutritionally from nursing. Their mother’s milk provides colostrum during these first few weeks, which is full of infection-fighting antibodies and nutrients that support development. Ideally, Beagle puppies should nurse until they are about eight weeks old, but that is not always possible.
If your puppy is having trouble latching on, or it seems like they are not getting enough milk, you can speak with your veterinarian about picking an appropriate puppy milk substitute.
Weeks 3 – 4
Your puppy is growing stronger, and their ears and eyes have started to open. They should continue to nurse as needed, and their mother’s milk will provide them with all the nutrients they need. As they start to grow stronger, you may see more movement, including a few first, timid steps. While they will start to show interest in the world around them, right now, your puppy will mainly just eat and sleep.
Weeks 4 – 6
While your puppy will still get the majority of nutrition from their mother’s milk, at around four weeks old, you can introduce puppy mush. This is a mixture made up of puppy food mixed with water or puppy milk formula. In these early weeks, this mixture should primarily be water. Stick to about one part of food and three parts water. Even if puppies have no interest in this mixture right now, it’s important to introduce it and leave it in close proximity to them a few times a day. They will become accustomed to the smell and, over the next few weeks, become increasingly curious.
Weeks 6 – 8
By six weeks of age, puppies will start to have some baby teeth growing in and will likely start to have more interest in eating solid foods. They are stronger and sturdier on their feet and start to take in what’s going on around them. New smells, sounds, and tastes will intrigue them. While they still seem very small, starting the weaning process at about six weeks of age is important. Puppies can continue to nurse, but puppy mush should always be offered to them at meal times. If your Beagle puppy is not interested in puppy mush now, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian.
Mother dogs cannot sustain nursing for much longer, and puppies will soon be ready to leave their mothers and go to new homes. When this transition happens, it is important that they eat puppy mush. You can use dry or wet food for puppy mush and stick to a high-quality formula without any fillers or added artificial ingredients.
8 Weeks – 6 Months
At eight weeks old, most puppies can leave their mother and go to new homes. By around 10 weeks old, they should be fully weaned and eating puppy mush. Setting them on a regular feeding schedule of three to four meals a day around 12 weeks is a good idea. Baby teeth will continue to grow in and will start to fall out to make room for permanent adult teeth between four and six months. The bigger your puppy gets, the more energy they need due to increased activity and the extreme rate of growth.
Once your puppy is fully weaned, you can start increasing the amount of puppy food and lessening the water in the puppy mush. Do this gradually, but they will need more solid food than water as their growth increases.
6 – 12 Months
Between 10 and 12 months of age, your Beagle can transition to an adult formula. You can also start to transition them towards two meals a day during this time. Remember, this breed is very food motivated, so keeping them on a regular feeding schedule of two meals a day allows you to work in extra snacks and treats throughout the day.
Beagles reach their adult height at about eight months old but continue gaining weight until they reach about 18 months old. You will also discuss the spay and neuter procedure with your veterinarian during this time. This is generally done between 6 and 12 months for males and around one year of age for females.
12 – 18 Months
By 18 months old, your Beagle will have reached their full adult weight and is considered mature. They should have a regular feeding schedule and be fed a high-quality diet, avoiding excess calories. You want to be sure to find the right balance of food and snacks and set them on a meal schedule where they are not underfed. Underfeeding can lead to a decrease in energy, poor health, and affect development.
Setting A Feeding Schedule For Your Beagle
When your Beagle is very young, between one and two months, they nurse and eat as needed. However, once they move on to solid foods like puppy mush, it is important to set a consistent feeding schedule. Growing puppies need to eat about three times a day after they are weaned. Once they reach adulthood, feeding twice a day is generally appropriate.
Setting your Beagle on a feeding schedule is important. It helps to establish a routine, so they know what to expect daily. Consistent eating times also support healthy digestion. A regular feeding schedule also helps prevent obesity, which is especially important for Beagles. For puppies, this feeding schedule should include an early morning meal, a midday meal, and a late afternoon meal. Try to feed your dog dinner around 5:00 pm if possible, allowing enough time for their food to digest properly before bedtime.
Adult vs Puppy Food
Adult food and puppy chow are not created the same. This is because puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs. Puppies are rapidly growing, and this growth needs to be supported by fat, protein, vitamins, minerals, and calories. Higher protein and fat support growth and development and provide energy to growing puppies.
While adult dogs are active, they are not growing and using energy at such an extreme rate. So, their meals need to have fewer calories and fat so they do not become overweight. Adult formulas also do not have the proper vitamin and mineral levels to support a puppy’s growth and development. Top-quality puppy formulas include omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA, which is important for vision and brain development.
Along with different nutritional needs for puppies and adult dogs, small breeds and large breeds also have different nutritional needs. This is because smaller breeds have a higher metabolism, so their food needs to be more nutrient-dense with higher calories. Though they eat less, they still need enough to support their energy, growth, and development. The larger breeds need more food, which shouldn’t overdo it on the fat, protein, and calories. So, paying attention to your dog’s age, breed, and size is essential to help pick the best nutrition formula to meet their dietary needs.
Different Types Of Dog Food
Just like there are different formulas for puppies and adults as well as small and large breeds, you can choose from a variety of different types of dog food.
Kibble (Dry)
Probably the most common form of dog food is dry or kibble. Well-made kibbles are nutritionally complete and balanced, and there are a variety of options that come with freeze-dried meat coatings, meaty chunks, and a variety of animal proteins. Kibble is generally fairly affordable, can be purchased in large quantities, and is easy to store at home.
Keep in mind that the list of ingredients for pet foods is in order of the most to least based on the weight. So if you see higher quality ingredients lower down on the list, this means there’s not as much of them in the recipe as the ingredients listed earlier.
Kibble has nutritional benefits and is also helpful in reducing plaque buildup, as the crunchy texture helps scrape your puppy’s teeth clean. However, it is important to ensure that dogs get proper hydration if their diet is made up primarily of kibble. This can be done by adding water or bone broth to their bowl. You can also mix in wet or fresh toppers.
Always read the ingredients on any kibble that you intend to purchase, as there are several brands that contain lower-quality ingredients. Some are unhealthy, and some may be harmful, so it’s important to know what’s in the chow you’re feeding your dog. Healthy kibbles should include protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals without any artificial flavors, food dyes, fillers, or unknown ingredients.
Wet Food (Can or Pouch)
Wet dog foods generally come in a can or a pouch. Just like kibble, there are a wide variety of options available. Dogs tend to like wet foods better than kibble, often because it has gravy or extra flavor. Wet dog food usually has higher protein and fat and lower carbs than dry kibble. This makes them more appealing to many dogs, especially picky eaters.
Remember that canned has more water than kibble, up to 75%, meaning your dog is getting more hydration but fewer calories. It also does not have the teeth-cleaning benefit that kibble does. Many owners choose to feed their dogs a mix of wet and dry food.
One thing to note when buying canned dog food is to look at the containers to ensure that they are BPA-free. BPA (Bisphenol A) is a harmful chemical to humans and dogs that can disrupt the endocrine system and cause health issues, interfering with normal body functions. These include reproductive issues, thyroid disorders, diabetes, cancer, and heart and kidney disease.
Fresh (Human Grade)
Fresh, human-grade dog food has become extremely popular in recent years. Human-grade dog foods like The Farmer’s Dog use ingredients that meet the guidelines for human consumption. This means they do not include certain chemicals, fillers, by-products, or lower-quality meats that some commercial pet food companies use.
Fresh pet food tends to use top-of-the-line, limited-ingredient recipes. These often feature real meat rather than meat by-products and whole foods such as grains, seeds, eggs, fruits, vegetables, and superfood ingredients. Most human-grade pet food companies work with board-certified veterinary nutritionists and veterinarians to formulate their recipes. Additionally, these companies tend to focus on sustainability efforts and provide transparent ingredient sourcing.
Fresh and human-grade dog food is one of the best nutritional decisions you can make for your dog; however, it is also one of the most expensive. If money were no object, all dog owners would make this choice. However, human-grade is the most expensive option due to the high quality of ingredients and extra efforts that go into its manufacturing. It also does not last as long as dry kibble or canned.
Vegan
Vegan food for dogs like v-dog and Bramble has grown in popularity. Canines are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals. While it is not super common, a growing number of dogs are eating a vegan diet. Research has shown that a vegan diet is highly digestible and can support the immune system. For many dogs with dietary sensitivities and allergies to animal proteins, a vegan diet has become a game changer.
Home-Cooked
Home-cooked meals are also a choice. Making the meals yourself lets you know exactly what’s going on in your dog’s bowl; however, if you want to go this route, it’s important to work with your veterinarian to ensure you provide your dog with a balanced diet. Not all human foods are safe for canine consumption, so it’s important to avoid any ingredients like onions, garlic, or grapes, which are known toxins for dogs. If done the right way, a home-cooked diet can provide your pup with a tasty, fully balanced diet.
Fresh nutrition is a good substitute for some owners who want to feed their dogs a home-cooked diet.
Raw, BARF, Or Prey Diet
Some owners prefer to feed their dogs a raw diet. This means they feed them fresh, uncooked proteins, fruits, and vegetables. The term BARF refers to biologically appropriate raw food, which is a diet that includes raw foods and bones. Another option is the PRM or PREY (Prey Model Raw) diet, which focuses on a high content of raw meat, organs, and bones. Maev and We Feed Raw are two examples of high-quality commercial raw dog food brands.
Owners who prefer the raw diet like it because it is biologically appropriate and based on the canine species’ ancestral diet. Many owners report higher energy and better digestion when eating a raw food diet. However, this diet is much more expensive, and there is some concern about including raw bones in your dog’s diet. If you’re interested in the raw diet, discussing this with a veterinarian before making any major changes to your pup’s diet is best.
Importance Of High-Quality Dog Food
A healthy diet from your Beagle puppy’s very first days is the cornerstone of lifelong health. A balanced diet does more than just taste good; it provides central nutrients that support your pet’s overall health, immune system, muscle development, and mood and can even help prevent some health concerns like obesity and obesity-related diseases. Keeping your pup at a healthy weight throughout their life helps prevent the development of other conditions like hip dysplasia and arthritis.
Healthy Beagles have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. A healthy diet sets them up to be with you as long as possible.
6 Ingredients To Avoid In Dog Food
There are a few ingredients that you want to watch out for and avoid them if possible. I’ve covered a few below, but this is not a complete list.
- Food dye – Food dye is made up of artificial, chemical ingredients to create a specific color. In particular, commercial pet foods often use a caramel colorant, which contains known animal carcinogens. Additionally, other dyes, including Blue 2, Red 40, and Yellow 5 and 6, have been found to be a contributing factor in the development of cancer and behavioral issues in humans. Yellow 5, for example, has been connected to hyperactivity, insomnia, aggression, allergies, asthma, as well as thyroid malfunction, and certain cancers.
- Corn syrup – Corn syrup is a refined sugar with zero nutritional value for dogs. It can lead to dental issues, diabetes, and obesity.
- Unnamed meat meal – Unnamed meat meal or bone meal is a big red flag. These are leftover parts from the rendering process and include things like carcasses, which can contain scraps of several animal species. Not only does this sound gross, but you also have no idea what animal protein your dog is getting, so it’s best to stick with named proteins and named meat meals.
- Rendered Fat – Rendered fat is another animal product that comes from unknown sources. It is often used to add flavor but has a high potential to contain harmful bacteria, mold, and microorganisms like salmonella. Rendered fat also contains higher levels of heavy metals and other toxins.
- BHA – BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) is a synthetic chemical used as a preservative in pet foods. BHA is a controversial ingredient due to the carcinogenic effects it has shown in research. A healthier alternative is rosemary oil. Ethoxyquin is another one to look out for, and it is often found in fish meal.
- Fillers – Fillers are ingredients that take up space but offer no nutritional value. These are often grains and grain by-products. Wheat, corn, soy, rice flour, cereals, vegetable derivatives, and potato starch are a few fillers to note. Cellulose is often added to bulk up the food but has no nutritional benefits.
What Nutrients Do Beagle Puppies Need?
To take a quick look at the differences between puppy food and adult dog food, I have provided a list of nutritional guidelines below from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO):
- Protein – 22% for puppies and 18% for adults
- Fat – 8% for puppies and 5% for adults
- Calcium – 1% for puppies and 0.6% for adults
- Phosphorus – 0.8% for puppies and 0.5% for adults
- Sodium – 0.3% for puppies and 0.06% for adults
- Arginine – 0.62 for puppies. 0.51 for adults.
- Lysine – 0.77% for puppies. 0.63% for adults.
- Leucine – 0.72 % for puppies. 0.59 for adults.
- Chloride – 0.45 % for a puppy. 0.095 for adults.
(This is not a complete list)
Protein
Protein in high-quality dog food includes real meat, organ meats, and novel proteins. It provides dogs with energy and is an integral part of keeping the body functioning. High-quality animal protein is essential to help dogs build muscle, skin, and bone tissues, and it is also involved in producing hormones.
Protein is made up of amino acids, which provide dogs with many benefits. Proteins have 20 amino acids, ten of which are considered essential for dogs. However, dogs can only produce some of these; the others must be provided in their diet. This is part of why high-quality, animal-sourced proteins are so important. These can give your pup all the essential acids they need without getting extra proteins from other sources.
Beagles do well with high-quality animal proteins, including chicken, turkey, beef, and fish. The healthy fats from these proteins support skin and coat health and help provide energy.
Fat
Along with high-quality animal protein, dogs need fat. Healthy fats help support body functions, provide energy, and help move fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K throughout the body. Fats are made up of fatty acids, which have many different health benefits. DHA fatty acid is important for puppies and dogs of all ages as it supports brain health and vision development. This is often supplemented in dog foods with fish oil.
High-quality dog food provides fat from a healthy source, such as animal protein, fish oil, chicken fat, beef tallow, flaxseed, or flaxseed oil. Omega fatty acids are essential, especially in puppyhood. These healthy fats support skin and coat health, brain development, eye health, and the immune system.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates can come from various sources, including vegetables such as peas, sweet potatoes, and lentils. They can also be supplied from different grains, including rice, oatmeal, and barley. Carbohydrates provide different nutrients, including fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. They’re also a healthy source of fiber, which promotes a feeling of fullness and helps manage a dog’s weight.
Fibers from carbohydrates help regulate the digestive system and also help bind toxins and remove them from the body. Fruits such as pumpkins, apples, and bananas are healthy sources of fiber for your dog. These fruits also provide vitamins and antioxidants.
Vitamins & Minerals
Vitamins are an essential part of a dog’s diet that support a variety of bodily functions, including growth and development, immune function, and overall development. Minerals are fundamental to several bodily functions, including muscle function, fluid balance, and bone growth. Calcium and phosphorus, for example, help support strong bones and teeth.
Water
Water is another essential element supporting a dog’s bodily functions. It helps carry nutrients throughout the body, aids in digestion, is involved in body temperature regulation, and helps lubricate joints. Water also helps flush toxins from the body, helps with circulation, and is an important part of muscle support and injury recovery.
How Much Do Beagle Puppies Grow Each Week?
Beagle puppies grow very quickly within the first few weeks. It is not surprising to see them double their weight in about a week or so. Most Beagle puppies start out weighing about one to two pounds and weigh between five and six pounds by the end of one month. They should weigh between 11 and 15 pounds by three months, and growth will slow down around five months. By six months old, most Beagles will weigh around 20 lbs. They will reach between 25 and 30 pounds when fully grown. You can learn more about what to expect in this Beagle growth chart.
Keeping Your Beagle At A Healthy Weight
Beagles are prone to overeating and developing obesity, diabetes, arthritis, and cancer. It’s important to keep your pup at a healthy weight throughout its life. There are a few different ways to do this.
- Set your pup on a regular feeding schedule.
- Measure out your dog’s meals in a measuring cup to ensure they are not being overfed. For the most accurate measurement, you should weigh the food.
- Keep an eye on your dog’s weight and bring any concerns to your veterinarian as soon as possible.
- Ensure your dog has regular, daily physical exercise.
- Avoid feeding your pup human foods, treats, and table scraps.
- Pick a recipe that meets the needs of your pet’s age, breed, weight, and activity level.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve answered a few of the most common questions about Beagle feeding. If I skipped yours, let me know in the comments. I’ll do my best to find the answer.
What Is The Best Beagle Puppy Feeding Schedule?
Beagle puppies should eat between three and four times a day. Adults should have their chow divided into two meals. A medium-sized kibble is best for their smaller mouth size.
Why Are Beagles Always Hungry?
Beagles love to chow down. They are very food-motivated and will eat as much as possible when left to their own devices. It is often said that their appetites are insatiable. Because they are food-obsessed, they are happy to overeat and will constantly beg for more. Because of this, it is especially important for your Beagle to be on a controlled diet and have a set feeding schedule.
How Much Does It Cost To Feed A Beagle A Month?
The cost largely depends on your dog’s eating habits and the brand you choose. Expect to spend anywhere from $20 to over $50 a month. If you choose a higher-end option like fresh, human-grade foods or freeze-dried foods, you can expect to spend much more.
Best Dog Food For Beagles
Picking the best food for your Beagle pup depends on several factors. In this guide, we’ve reviewed some of the best dog foods for Beagles. You can also learn more about fresh dog food delivery options and the healthiest dog foods on the market. Don’t forget those daily walks and play sessions to help burn off extra calories. You can also head over to our Canine Journal Community, a forum where dog owners can ask questions and learn more about life with dogs.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Danielle has over thirty years of canine care experience. She has cared for many rescue animals, including those with special needs. As a research and dog-focused writer, she has tested and reviewed over 100 kinds of pet food. Her two rescue pups, Falkor and Daisy, are her enthusiastic assistants and dog food testers. Danielle works alongside a dedicated team of canine experts at Canine Journal, striving to bring the best canine information to pet parents.