Pocket Beagles (also called Teacup Beagles) are miniature versions of the Beagle. Pint-sized pocket beagles were a Renaissance favorite and are gaining in popularity again. If you're looking for a miniature dog, the Pocket Beagle is a great choice. Before you consider purchasing one, you need to be aware of some characteristics of Pocket Beagles.
Pocket Beagles might look vulnerable because of their size, but they are actually working dogs. They originated in Elizabethan England around the mid-1500s. Bred to hunt rabbits, these very small hunting hounds measured only 9 inches tall at the shoulder. (By comparison, today's Beagles average between 13 and 15 inches.)
Miniature dog breeds are becoming more popular in the United States and unfortunately, many of these smaller pups have a number of health problems because of their size. This makes them very fragile and vulnerable as these breeds were just not meant to be that small. They are typically the runts of the litter—the weakest and sickliest of the bunch.
Pocket Beagles on the other hand are rough and tumble and ready for action. These diminutive hounds are small for a purpose. They are designed for hunting and tracking. Here are some things to keep in mind.
They need exercise. A Pocket Beagle is a working hound, as such it needs a chance to run and play in the great outdoors. You'll have a hard time getting them the exercise they need if you don't get them outside.
They're very sociable. These loveable pups need someone to love. They're great with people and other dogs. They suffer from separation anxiety if left alone. If you're considering a Pocket Beagle, think about getting two so they have someone to keep them company.
Like full-sized Beagles, they're a slave to their nose. If you're Pocket Beagle smells something interesting, he'll follow it anywhere. Unfortunately, this means that they tend to wander off. Keep your baby on a leash in an unfenced area.
Health concerns. Although a typically hardy animal, some blood lines are prone to illnesses like heart disease, dwarfism, and epilepsy. They can also develop back and eye problems.
There is some disagreement amongst the ranks whether the Pocket Beagles of today can trace their lineage all the way back to the Elizabethan Pocket Beagles. But in either case, today's Pocket Beagles seem to have all the stamina, tracking ability, and hardiness of the original.