
Hound breed from County Kerry, Ireland
The Kerry Beagle is a medium-large Irish scent hound, one of Ireland's oldest native breeds. It has a smooth, dense coat and distinctive black and tan markings. Despite its name, it is not a small beagle but a medium-large hound. The breed is known for its stamina and strong hunting instincts. Temperaments include energetic, intelligent, loyal, independent, friendly, and alert. However, individual dogs may vary. The breed's recognition status varies by registry.
The Kerry Beagle is an ancient Irish scenthound and one of Ireland's oldest native breeds. It possibly descends from Celtic Hounds and dates back to at least the 16th century. The breed was developed in County Kerry for hunting stag, deer, fox, and hare in packs over mountainous terrain. Despite its name, it is a medium-large hound, not a small beagle. The breed is recognized by the Irish Kennel Club, but recognition status varies by other registries.
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
No Kerry Beagle-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
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Based on modelled estimates, adult Kerry Beagles typically weigh between 23 and 27 kg and stand 56 to 66 cm tall at the shoulder. Their estimated lifespan is 10 to 14 years.
The breed is described as energetic, intelligent, loyal, independent, friendly, and alert. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every Kerry Beagle will display all these traits.
The Kerry Beagle has a high energy score (5 out of 5), indicating a need for substantial daily exercise. It was historically used for hunting over mountainous terrain, so it likely requires vigorous activity.
Grooming needs are low (score 2 out of 5) due to its smooth, dense coat. Shedding is moderate (score 3 out of 5). Regular brushing and occasional baths should suffice.
The breed has a child suitability score of 4 out of 5, suggesting it can be good with children, but supervision is always recommended. Its dog compatibility score is 3 out of 5, indicating it may get along with other dogs but individual temperaments vary.
Apartment suitability is low (score 2 out of 5). This breed is energetic and likely needs space to roam, so a home with a yard is more appropriate.
The Kerry Beagle originates from County Kerry, Ireland. It is an ancient Irish scenthound, possibly descended from Celtic Hounds, and has been known since at least the 16th century.
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.