Hey there! My name is Jess, and I am the proud owner of an adorable little Cockapoo named Jimmy.
I’ve had Jimmy for about 12 years, but before he joined my family, I used to spend a lot of time “dog-sitting” for multiple neighbors while they were away.
Two of the breeds I had the pleasure of getting to know in my dog-sitting days were Jack Russell Terriers and Beagles.
Although at first glance, they are seemingly similar, these two breeds both have special characteristics that make them unique.
Short Introduction to The Dogs: Jack Russell vs Beagle
Jack Russell Terriers are charming and playful, but a handful to train!
They are perfect little companions for any dog owner who is looking for company on their adventures.
Beagles are also adorable little companions, often seen following their noses to track different scents.
They used to be positioned to help hunters track down game, but now, they are great family dogs who enjoy company and exploring.
What to Consider When Getting a Dog?
Before considering getting any breed of dog, it is important to asses if you are ready to add a furry friend to your family.
Dogs are a lot of responsibility, and some even more so than others!
Not only is it important to take the time to train them and get them accustomed to their new homes, but you also need to invest tie into their well-being each day.
Consistent walks, play time, and a healthy eating schedule are all part of having a dog. Let’s not forget about a few “trips to the bathroom” every day, too!
Before making the decision to bring a dog into your home, make sure you are ready to offer him or her the same amount of love and commitment that he or she is ready to give you.
Overview of Jack Russell
Jack Russell Terriers first entered the scene around 200 years ago after Parson John Russell, also known as “Jack,” helped to create a hunting-minded dog.
Jack, an avid hunter himself, realized the value of an athletic companion who could help on hunting adventures.
The result was a bold, active little dog with a sharp mind and great intelligence.
The quick, agile little creatures became very popular among hunters and are still favorites among active dog owners who appreciate their personalities, as well as horse owners.
Jack Russells are small in stature, contributing to their skillful hunting abilities.
They love to be active and have big personalities. They are known as being tougher to train, but as long as you put the time in, they are worth the effort!
Overview of Beagle
Beagles have been around since early history in England, even as early as the reign of Edward II in the 1300s.
Back then, they were apparently small enough to be held in one’s hand!
Beagles are popular today among dog owners who like to hunt and even some who are interested in bringing their dogs to shows.
Beagles are very friendly to everyone they meet, making them not the best guard dogs because they do not tend to be defensive.
Beagles can be a commitment to train, which can deter some dog owners from choosing this breed.
Jack Russell vs Beagle Size: Which is bigger?
Both Jack Russells and Beagles are small in stature, but Jack Russells are smaller and more agile.
Jack Russells typically weigh 13 to 17 pounds and stand tall at 10 inches to 1 foot.
Beagles are 18 to 30 pounds, usually right around 1 foot tall.
If you are looking for a spunky, active companion, you might opt for the Jack Russell over a Beagle.
Beagles are still fun to take with you on adventures, but they are not as quick as you may need your hunting companion to be.
Jack Russell vs Beagle Temperament: How do They Behave?
Jack Russells are strong-minded, playful little dogs equipped with endless energy. They need a lot of activity to keep them stimulated.
They are happiest with their families, and can be aggressive towards other dogs if not socialized well early on.
Beagles are kind and loving, but they can be stubborn and are known to wander off if they catch an enticing scent.
Their noses rule their entire mindset, hence their usefulness in early history.
Beagles need a lot of love and attention to prevent them from feeling bored or lonely.
When lonely, they will howl loudly, which can be annoying to neighbors and others around.
Jack Russell vs Beagle Life Span: What’s Their Life Expectancy
Both Jack Russells and Beagles are known to live 10-15 years, which is right around the average lifespan.
With proper diet, exercise, and lots of love, you can help your Jack Russell or Beagle make it to the longer end of that range.
Jack Russell vs Beagle Health: Are They Prone to Health Conditions?
Jack Russells are typically healthy dogs, but just like all other breeds, there are certain conditions they could face throughout their lives.
Some include deafness, Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, and Glaucoma.
Beagles are also prone to Glaucoma, as well as Hip Dysplasia, Cherry Eye, and Epilepsy.
Hip Dysplasia is common in smaller breeds, which is why Jack Russells and Beagles face the risk.
If you buy a puppy from a breeder, your breeder should have information about health clearances for both of the puppy’s parents.
Although not perfect, it can help to provide some sort of indication of what your puppy may face.
Jack Russell vs Beagle Appearance: What do They Look Like?
Jack Russells are tiny, muscular dogs with perky ears and an alert presence. They move quickly and with intentions, and can even jump up to 5 feet high with their strong little builds!
Beagles are short and stout, sporting droopy ears and a constant puppy-face that could melt even the coldest of hearts.
They tend to weigh more than Jack Russells, which can be due to some extra weight on the belly and their thicker coats.
Jack Russell vs Beagle Shedding: What Kind of Coats do They Have?
Speaking of coats, Jack Russells have smooth or broken coats, each coming with a double layer and coarse texture.
Jack Russells are usually white, black, and tan, which is just like Beagles!
Although similar colors to the Jacks, Beagles have stronger, thicker coats that are smooth and water resistant.
Both breeds shed, but because they each have short hair, it is not very noticeable.
If you do not suffer from allergies and don’t mind sweeping up a little bit of dog hair every so often, either breed is a great choice for you!
Jack Russell vs Beagle Grooming: How Much do They Require?
Both the Jack Russell and the Beagle need to be groomed a few times a month. It is recommended that they each have their hair brushed and their nails trimmed every couple of weeks.
Jack Russells also need their teeth brushed once or twice a month to avoid plaque buildup.
Beagles need their ears examined monthly to ensure wax isn’t building up, causing irritation.
Since both dogs have independent and sometimes stubborn mindsets, it is important to get them accustomed to grooming early.
It will help them to realize it is part of their routines and they will get used to it.
Also, for Beagles, make sure to include positive reinforcement in the grooming routine to remind them they’re doing a good job listening.
Jack Russell vs Beagle Training: Can They be Trained Easily?
Both dogs are known for being slightly more difficult to train than other popular breeds. For example, when we trained my Cockapoo, Jimmy, he was up to speed in just a few weeks.
Jack Russells are known as strong willed, and therefore require firm direction from their owners during training.
They are not recommended for first-time dog owners who are not used to training a new dog.
Beagles can also be difficult, as it is noted that some owners have reported it took them an entire year to train theirs.
Jack Russells and Beagles require more time and effort, but they are worth it for the right owners!
If you are struggling to train your beagle or Jack Russell we have created a great article which reviews Brain Training 4 Dogs an amazing programme that can teach your dog amazing tricks
If you would like to see our review of this click here!
Jack Russell vs Beagle Availability: Are They a Rare Dog Breed?
Jack Russells and Beagles are commonly available through breeders and even local animal shelters.
Although they are not uncommon to find, as stressed earlier, it is important to make sure you research each breed before bringing them into your home so you know it will be a good fit.
You may not see your friends and neighbors with these breeds as often, but the match depends on your family circumstances and what you are looking for in your relationship with your dog.
For example, I am admittedly not as outdoorsy or active as one of my friends who owns a Jack Russell, which is why my Cockapoo is a great dog for me and his Jack is a great match for him!
Jack Russell vs Beagle Diet: What do They Eat?
Jack Russells should be fed twice a day, a total amount of 1.25-1.75 cups of a high-quality food.
Beagles also require a high-quality dry food twice a day, but just .75-1.5 cups since they tend to be less active than Jack Russells.
Beagles are known to be thieves when it comes to food, often raiding pantries and consistently begging for table scraps at dinner.
It is also important to secure your garbage so that they can’t get into it.
That being said, neither breed is picky! It is important to research the food you choose for your dog before implementing a routine to make sure they’re getting all of the nutrients they need.
Jack Russell vs Beagle Family Dog: Are They Good With Children?
Jack Russells are affectionate and caring, but do best with older children since they can get aggressive if handled roughly.
Along the same lines, Beagles can get mouthy without realizing it, so they are also better suited in an environment with older children who know how to play with dogs.
Either dog can be socialized properly, and you can teach your children early on how to interact with each breed to prevent any accidents.
Beagles do especially well with families because they do not like to be left alone.
The more people around, the happier and less neglected they feel.
Jack Russell vs Beagle Environment: Where Are They Best Suited?
Neither dog can live outside full-time, and neither dog is recommended for apartment living.
Jack Russells especially need a yard or a large, enclosed space where they can release some of their energy.
Beagles would also appreciate a yard, but do not leave them outside alone for too long, as they may begin baying.
Neither breed needs to live in a specific type of climate, but if you do live in a place that faces a cold winter, consider getting them a jacket or a sweater!
My Cockapoo, Jimmy, is also under 30 pounds and we live in New England, so he has been really enjoying his sweater recently!
Both breeds are loving and enjoy being with their families/owners, so no matter where you bring them, you can help them to adapt accordingly!
Jack Russell vs Beagle Running Costs: Are They Expensive to Look After?
Between food, grooming, and healthcare, neither Jack Russells nor Beagles are particularly expensive.
In considering whether or not to get a dog, expense is another important factor that should be looked into before making a decision.
The costly aspect of owning either breed is the time and attention needed to care for them and to help them thrive.
If you feel you are unable to dedicate this time, it is worth considering a slightly lower maintenance breed, or maybe wait to adopt a dog in general.
Final Thoughts: Jack Russell vs Beagle
Overall, Jack Russells and Beagles are both unique breeds who have their own special tendencies.
Jack Russells are great additions to active families who like to get outdoors, where Beagles are ideal for owners who may be looking for an indoor companion with a lot of time spent together.
Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either choice, as they are both full of love and affection!
