Beagles are cheeky, clever and always up for a snack — but how often should you actually be filling up their food bowl? Whether your Beagle is a bouncy pup or a senior snuggler, feeding schedules play a big part in their health and happiness. If you’re wondering how many meals a day your Beagle needs, or what’s the best food for their waggy tails, we’ve got you sorted.
In this guide, we’ll explore how often to feed your Beagle based on their life stage, activity level and nutritional needs. Because here at Petdirect, We Get Pet — and we know a Beagle’s heart is through their stomach!
How Often Should I Feed A Beagle Puppy?
Beagle puppies are full of beans and burn energy fast, so they need frequent, balanced meals to fuel their growth. From weaning (around 6–8 weeks) until about 6 months old, feed your Beagle pup:
- 3–4 small meals per day — evenly spaced
- Nutrient-dense puppy food that supports cognitive and bone development
- High in protein, fats and essential vitamins
Look for brands committed to science-based puppy nutrition like Royal Canin, Pro Plan or Hill's Science Diet.
Feeding Schedule For Adult Beagles
Between 6–12 months, most Beagles can gradually switch to adult food and meals can be reduced to twice daily. Feeding your adult Beagle two measured meals helps prevent digestive upset — and discourages begging behaviours that this breed is famously good at!
Feed adult Beagles:
- Twice daily (morning and evening)
- Age-appropriate, complete and balanced dry dog food or wet dog food
- Portion-controlled meals based on weight and activity
Beagles love to eat, so using slow feeder bowls can help them pace their meals, avoiding bloating or weight gain.
How To Feed A Senior Beagle
As your Beagle enters their golden years (typically 7+), their metabolism slows, and so should their calorie intake. While most senior Beagles still do well on two meals a day, it’s time to consider:
- Lower calorie, joint-supporting senior formulas
- Weight management foods if they’re a little round in the middle
- Supplements for joint or coat health
Top choices include Hill’s Science Diet and Eukanuba, both offering senior-specific recipes tailored to your Beagle’s changing nutritional needs.
Signs You May Be Overfeeding Or Underfeeding
Because Beagles seldom say "no" to food, it’s important to pay attention to their body condition and behaviour. Watch for these signs:
- Overfeeding: weight gain, less energy, begging despite regular meals
- Underfeeding: visible ribs, low energy, excessive sniffing around for scraps
- Incorrect food: skin issues or digestive upsets
Adjust portions as needed and speak with your vet if you’re unsure. You can also explore science health nutrition options for tailored formulas based on specific diets or health needs.
Treats & Feeding Tips For Beagle Parents
Beagles are big fans of positive reinforcement, so treats are brilliant training motivators — just use them wisely! Stick to the 10% rule: treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s total daily intake. Choose healthy, low-calorie options like:
Using smart feeders can also help maintain a consistent feeding routine, even when you're out — perfect for busy Beagle parents!
Keep Their Tummy Wagging Right
Feeding your Beagle the right amount at the right times will keep them happy, healthy and full of tail-wagging energy. From enthusiastic pups to wise seniors, sticking to a regular feeding schedule and choosing the right nutrition helps your Beagle thrive.
Need help picking the perfect food or feeding accessories? Explore dog food collections or visit us in-store — because We Get Pet. And don’t forget to join our Pet Perks loyalty programme and unlock benefits (plus Airpoints™) every time you shop!