Beagles have varied in size for a long time the 'pocket' Beagle standing not more than 10 inches at the shoulder, though such small hounds have never been really numerous.

Many packs have hunted with hounds measuring 12 or 13 inches, however, and those Masters whose country is rough and encompasses much ploughed land, dykes and ditches, prefer a larger hound measuring anything from 14 to 16 inches high. Beagles are hunted on foot, and consequently it is generally the smaller hounds that show the best sport. It is very hard work keeping up with a 15 inch or 16 inch hound.

Size desirable minimum height at withers 33cm (13 inches).

Desirable maximum height at withers 40cm (16 inches).

In the USA, there are two recognized sizes.

13 inches ~ Not exceeding 13 inches at the withers.

15 inches ~ Not exceeding 15 inches at the withers.