Where can I buy a “pocket” or “miniature” beagle?
Pocket beagles were bred in the 1300’s and 1400’s and were said to be about 9″ at the withers (shoulder). There is no such thing as a modern-day pocket beagle and in fact, the term “pocket beagle” has become synonomous with poor quality puppies bred for the pet market, and often sold to pet shops. Reputable (U.S.) breeders breed according to the Standard defined by the American Kennel Club, which includes two height varieties: not exceeding 13″ at the withers, and not exceeding 15″. The light bones, high ear sets and toyish heads that tend to go along with very small sized beagles are listed as faults. In addition to not breeding according to the standard, the majority of “pocket beagle” breeders allow many of the common genetic defects (e.g., hip dysplasia and epilepsy) to be passed along. The result is often an unhealthy dog. If you still want a small beagle, then consider the option of adopting a fully grown adult from a rescue or the pound.
