Beagles for Adoption vs. Buying a Beagle Puppy From a Breeder

There are two good ways to bring a beagle into your family: adopting one from a shelter or rescue, or buying a puppy from a responsible breeder. Both can give you a wonderful dog. The right choice depends on whether you want a puppy or an adult, how much you need to know about the dog's background, and what your home is like. Here's an honest comparison.

Adoption vs. breeder at a glance

Adopting a beagle

Beagles are one of the most common breeds in shelters and rescues. Many are surrendered because owners weren't ready for the barking, the escaping or the energy; others are strays, or older dogs whose owners could no longer care for them.

Some beagles come from research facilities. Beagles are the breed most used in laboratory research because of their gentle nature and size, and rescue groups regularly take in and rehome these dogs. In 2022, around 4,000 beagles were removed from a breeding facility in Virginia that supplied laboratories and placed with shelters and rescues across the country — one of the largest dog rescues in US history. Laboratory beagles often need patience: many have never walked on grass, climbed stairs or lived in a house.

Where to find beagles for adoption

• Beagle-specific rescues in your region, many listed by the National Beagle Club
• Local shelters and humane societies
• Adoption websites like Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet, where you can search "beagle" near you (you'll also find many beagle mixes, such as beagle/terrier)

Pros of adopting

• You give a dog a second chance.
• Adult dogs' size and personality are already known.
• Many are already house-trained.
• Lower upfront cost.

Things to consider

• Background and health history may be unknown.
• Some dogs need extra time and training to settle.
• Puppies are less common, and rescues often have home requirements.

Buying a beagle puppy from a breeder

Pros

• You know the parents, their size, temperament and health testing.
• You raise your beagle from puppyhood, shaping their habits from day one.
• A written health guarantee and lifelong breeder support.
• Your breeder will take the dog back if your circumstances change.

Things to consider

• Higher upfront cost.
• You may need to wait for the right litter.
• You must choose your breeder carefully — see how to find a reputable beagle breeder.

How to decide

Adoption may suit you if you're happy with an adult or senior dog, have experience with dogs, and are ready for some unknowns.

A breeder may suit you if you want a puppy, have young children and want a known temperament and health background, or want a written health guarantee.

Whichever you choose, please choose a responsible source. Avoid pet stores and anonymous online sellers, and never pay anyone you can't verify.

Questions

Is it better to adopt or buy a beagle?

Neither is better for everyone. Adoption gives a dog in need a home; a responsible breeder gives you a puppy with a known background and guarantees.

Are rescued laboratory beagles good pets?

Many become loving family dogs, but they often need extra patience, since they may never have lived in a home before.

How much does it cost to adopt a beagle?

Usually about $100 to $500, often including vaccinations, a microchip and spay/neuter.

Will Beagle Brook take back a dog?

Yes. If a Beagle Brook family can ever no longer keep their beagle, we take them back or help rehome them — at any age. See our health guarantee.

If a puppy is right for you, see our beagle puppies for sale.