Kerry Beagle

Also called An Pocadán Ciarraíoch, Scarteen Black and Tan

Rare breedShort profile

From Ireland, especially the south-west (County Kerry and neighbouring counties).1

At a glance the quick version

Height56 to 61 cm1

Sizelarge

good with children and other dogs

keen, energetic pack hound

great endurance

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, smooth coat

Despite the name this is a sizeable, athletic hound built for speed and stamina, with a broad head, long ears and a short, close coat.1

Coloursblack and tantan and whiteblue mottled and tanblack1

Personality what they are like

A friendly, sociable pack hound with a strong nose and hunting drive, which also makes a pleasant family pet for active households.1

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High: two or three walks a day plus regular off-lead runs in safe areas.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short coat is easy to keep; a regular brush and ear checks are enough.1

Home where they are happiest

An active home, ideally rural or with secure access to open ground.1

Company who they like around

A pack animal that enjoys company, both human and canine.1

The story where it all began

The Kerry Beagle is thought to date to the 16th century, and pedigrees survive from 1794. It began as a staghound and later hunted hare and fox; by the 1800s only a few packs remained, notably the Scarteen pack in County Limerick, which still hunts today.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
'Beag' means small in Irish; the hound was small only compared with the wolfhounds it worked alongside.1
2
Irish emigrants took these hounds to the Americas, where they helped shape coonhounds and the American Foxhound.1
3
The black-and-tan colour of the Scarteen hounds is linked to the 'Black and Tans' nickname given to police recruits in 1919-21.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

Despite its name, the Kerry Beagle is not a small hound; 'beag' is an Irish word for 'small', given because it is smaller than other hounds like the Irish Wolfhound. The breed is also not especially associated with County Kerry, as most of its documented history is in Limerick and Cork.1

Famous ones stars of the breed

Scarteen pack The only surviving historic pack of Kerry Beagles, maintained by the Ryan family in County Limerick since the 18th century.1

Name ideas for your new friend

CúRuaDubhBánFionnSnifferTrackerLuckyShamrockCloverPiperFinn

A day in the life told by a Kerry Beagle

The day starts with a chorus of yawns. My humans take me and my canine sibling for a walk. I put my nose to the ground - a rabbit crossed here! I follow the trail, tail high. They call me back, but I'm a hound, I must investigate. After a good run in the field, we all regroup. I check on everyone, making sure the pack is together. Back home, I flop on the cool floor, dreaming of scents. Evening: another walk, more sniffing. Life is a series of fascinating smells, and I'm here to enjoy every one.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Irish Kennel Club: Recognised in 1991.1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Kerry Beagle. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Frozen Yoghurt & Berry Kong Stuffing

A cooling, low-calorie treat that’s perfect for large dogs who love to lick and work for their food. Blueberries provide antioxidants, and plain yoghurt is gentle on the stomach.

You need

120g plain Greek yoghurt (unsweetened, no additives)
50g fresh or frozen blueberries (chopped if large)

How

Mix the yoghurt and blueberries together in a small bowl.
Spoon the mixture into a Kong or similar treat-dispensing toy.
Place the stuffed Kong upright in a cup or on a tray in the freezer.
Freeze for at least 3-4 hours or until solid.
Give to your dog as a supervised treat.

How much: One stuffed Kong per day for a large/giant dog, reducing their dinner portion accordingly.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Kerry Beagle, and at what times?

Adult Kerry Beagles should be fed at least two meals a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests feeding at consistent times each day to help with digestion and routine. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.2 Pet Wiki plan

What should a Kerry Beagle eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, as well as alcohol, caffeine, and raw bones. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.3

How often should I bathe a Kerry Beagle?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests bathing every 8 weeks, but the ASPCA recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if they get very dirty or have skin issues, but avoid over-bathing to keep their coat healthy.4 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Kerry Beagle need brushing?

Brush your Kerry Beagle weekly with a soft brush to keep their short, smooth coat shiny and remove loose hair. Furry Diary's starting plan includes weekly brushing, which is easy and helps with bonding.1 4 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Kerry Beagle's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail trimmer and cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part). If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.4 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Kerry Beagle need?

This active hound needs high exercise: two or three walks daily plus regular off-lead runs in safe, secure areas. Furry Diary's plan includes daily walks and play to keep them happy and healthy.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Kerry Beagle's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste, and check ears weekly for moisture or dirt, especially since floppy ears trap moisture. Furry Diary suggests daily tooth brushing and weekly ear checks, drying ears gently without pushing anything inside.4 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Kerry Beagle live?

The typical lifespan for a Kerry Beagle is around 12 to 15 years, though this can vary with care and genetics. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy lifestyle help them live a long, happy life.1

Is a Kerry Beagle good with children and other pets?

Yes, they are friendly, sociable pack hounds that make pleasant family pets for active households. They enjoy company of both humans and other dogs, but always supervise interactions with young children and other pets.1

Can a Kerry Beagle be left alone?

As a pack animal, they prefer company and may become anxious if left alone for long periods. If you must leave them, provide plenty of exercise beforehand and consider a dog walker or companion pet. For specific advice, ask your vet or a good breeder.1

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.