An incredibly elegant and sweet dog at first glance, the German Shepherd Beagle mix is an attractive looking crossbreed.
An outstanding combination of two most loved and respected of dogs, this is the ideal choice for many dog lovers.
In this article, we consider the German Shepherd Beagle Mix in further detail.
Namely, we look at aspects such as personality, temperament, physical features, and possible lifespan of this cross.
We also consider the physical demands required for this mix, alongside potential health issues created.
In conclusion, we will discuss whether the German Shepherd Beagle Mix could just be your ideal choice of dog.
What Is a German Shepherd Beagle Mix?
A German Shepherd Beagle Mix is created by breeding a German Shepherd with a Beagle. You may come across the term Beagle Shep as an alternate name for this beautiful crossbreed.
A mixed breed, otherwise called the “designer dog,” is a result of a mixing of two purebred parents.
Not much is known about the actual date of origin of the German Shepherd Beagle Mix.
It is, however, assumed that the crossbreeding of these two dogs began a couple of decades ago. Breed experts also suggest that the USA may have been the first to breed such a mix because it’s a cross that is more common in the United States.
Whatever the origins of this crossbreed are, the primary purpose of the combination is clear. Most owners and breed experts will tell you this is purely about breeding a delightful companion dog.
Yet, it’s hard to deny that the stunning physical attributes of this mix may also play a vital factor for this mix to come to existence.
German Shepherd Beagle Mix Physical Appearance
German Shepherd Beagle Mix is the canine that mot dog lovers claim they can spot from afar, naming both breeds instantly.
Yet, though the German Shepherd Beagle Mix is usually an easy breed to spot, there are variations in individual dog’s appearance.
In general, most of the German Shepherd Beagle mixes tend to display:
- A robust, sturdy and muscular body frame
- A medium-size
- Height from 15 inches to 24 inches
- Weight from 22 Ibs to as much as 49 Ibs
- Usually brown eyes and a black nose
- A short to medium length dense coat type
- Coats colours mostly consisting of black and tan but also possibilities of white, silver and red
- Drop ears which aren’t floppy
- A long tail
German Shepherd Beagle Cross Personality and Temperament
A German Shepherd Beagle Cross is considered as one of the more energetic of dog breeds! It is due to the zest for life displayed in both Beagles and German Shepherds in general.
Because of the heightened energy, this mix is considered the friendliest and indeed happiest of the canine world. Thus, it’s these such traits that make it ideal for those family units.
However, this mix also benefits from a higher level of intelligence. Undeniably German Shepherds are one of the most intelligent breeds of the dog world. It is why they serve as working dogs in the police force, armed forces, and the security industry.
When combining this intelligence alongside the renowned loyalty of the Beagle breed, the results are most spectacular faithful four-legged companions. Ultimately, this is one that will protect its human owners as it’s the more courageous of the pack.
However, though these traits are the more commendable of the German Shepherd Beagle Mix, they can be most persistent too!
Nowhere is this more evident than in the areas of stubbornness and disobedience.
The German Shepherd element of this mix demands high-quality training and socialization from very early on. It will keep this working dog happy and fulfilled.
Consequently, such training will also work on any tendencies of the Beagle element of the mix. It means curbing their need to wander off the lead and stray due to the various scents around them.
German Shepherd Beagle Mix Lifespan
When estimating the potential lifespan of a German Shepherd Beagle Mix, we should look at parental breeds’ average life expectancy in this mix:
- A Beagle has a lifespan of approximately 12 to 15 years.
- A German Shepherd has a lifespan of potentially 9 to 13 years.
Therefore, dog experts suggest that the German Shepherd Beagle Mix has a life expectancy of around 10 to 14 years.
Unfortunately, it is the German Shepherd element of the combination that reduces the lifespan of this crossbreed. German Shepherds are also prone to joint and spine issues, as intervertebral disk disease, as they get older.
Thus, the potential health problems of a German Shepherd may well determine a German Shepherd Beagle Cross life expectancy.
German Shepherd Beagle Mix Health
When it comes to the health of the German Shepherd Beagle Mix, there are several minor concerns to note, alongside a few significant health issues.
Minor health concerns include:
- Dental Issues
- Allergies
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
Though these health issues aren’t necessarily inevitable in this mix, most owners should be aware of the potential risks.
What does need some further investigation is the genetic predisposition of the German Shepherd in this mix. This parental breed is known for problematic issues in its old age. Thus, it pays to be mindful of the more significant potential health issues, including:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- General mobility issues
- Spine issues
- Epilepsy
You, as an owner, can also play a part in ensuring a longer lifespan for this mix. Your dog will thrive if you give him a well-balanced diet, proper exercise, and a general loving home environment.
Exercise and Activity Requirements
The German Shepherd Beagle Mix does undoubtedly need a great deal of exercise. The high energy and drive of both Beagle and German Shepherd are prevalent in this mix.
In fact, this mix is one of the most highly active crossbreeds. Thus, though some people will suggest 60 minutes of activity per day is enough – breed experts suggest around 90-120 minutes of total daily activities.
This breed benefits significantly from daily exercise spread out throughout the day and for more than an hour each time!
Unfortunately, the German Shepherd Beagle Mix isn’t a dog that can stay at home for long periods. Their activity levels and working dog genetic predisposition mean they demand plenty of outdoor pursuits.
Nowhere is this more evident than stories of such dogs that have been left for long periods alone – ruining the entire home in one go!
Therefore, the best solution is taking your mix out three to four times per day daily. It also means aiming to make such sessions last at least an hour.
As well as an outdoor session, you can always stimulate this mix with plenty of yard time. However, you will also have to supervise it due to the digging habits of this crossbreed!
Finally, this mix will require a great deal of stimulation indoors. It thrives on having something to do, both physically and mentally. So, you’ll need to be able to look at incorporating activities indoors as well as out. For instance, you can select various indestructible toys and leave them dotted around the home.
Is a German Shepherd Beagle Mix the Right Dog for You?
We hope this article has offered you a good idea of the type of dog the German Shepherd Beagle Mix is. By this stage, you may well be wondering if it’s the best canine companion for you and your current situation.
We believe the Beagle Shep is the ideal type of dog for many people, including:
✓ Caring family environments whereby every member has the time, dedication, and energy to commit to the mix. It includes children who have been taught the correct way to behave around dogs in general.
✓ This crossbreed is also suitable for the owners that are willing to meet the German Shepherd Beagle Mix’s high exercise requirements.
It means being able to take them on a couple of walks throughout the day. It also means creating an ideal environment whereby they are kept entertained and stimulated for much of the day.
✓German Shepherd Beagle Mix is also a fantastic dog for homes that have at least one person who is around for a large proportion of the day. Or, with one person who spends many hours at home during the day.
German Shepherd Beagle Mixes are highly sociable and don’t like being left alone. This dog thrives on being near their human owner. So, they’re better dogs when they have someone with them for a large chunk of their day.
Thus, this crossbreed won’t manage if you crate them for long stretches of the day. Neither will they cope well if left home alone for more than four hours daily.
✓ German Shepherd Beagle Crosses are also suitable for homes with dogs already present. It is a crossbreed that, when correctly socialised, will do wonders being around other dogs.
Thus, if you already have a well behaved and correctly socialised dog, bringing a Beagle Shep into the household will be hugely beneficial to both dogs.