Beagle vs Boston Terrier

Hound · Small vs Non-Sporting · Small

Quick take
  • Beagle is the larger breed at 20–30 lbs (males) vs 12–25 lbs for the Boston Terrier.
  • The Beagle typically lives longer (10–15 years).
  • The Beagle has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Boston Terrier sheds less.
  • The Boston Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBeagleBoston Terrier
Group
HoundNon-Sporting
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
EnglandUSA
Height (male)
13–15"15–17"
Height (female)
13–15"15–17"
Weight (male)
20–30 lbs12–25 lbs
Weight (female)
20–30 lbs12–25 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–15 years11–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

About the Beagle

The Beagle is a friendly, curious, merry scenthound — the world's most popular small hound, famous for its bay. Originally from England, this small hound breed typically weighs 20–30 lbs and lives 10–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, curious, merry.

About the Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is a friendly, bright, amusing 'American Gentleman' in a tuxedo coat — born in Boston, the original AKC breed. Originally from USA, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 12–25 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, bright, amusing.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Beagle health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Obesity
  • Epilepsy
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Ear infections

Boston Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Eye problems
  • Patellar luxation
  • Allergies