Best Dog Food for Beagles 2025
Beagles are amiable, active, and loyal pups who are known for their unrivaled sense of smell and adventurous streak. While these qualities make them endearing family companions — and adept search and rescue dogs — they do have a lot of energy to spare. They’ll need a diet that supports their activity level and gives them all the nutrients they need to put their brains (and sniffers) to good use.
There are plenty of dog foods on the market, each unique in texture, flavor, and nutritional profile. However, some are better suited to the beagle’s needs than others. Today, we’ll help you find the very best kibble for your beagle. We’ll explain key factors to consider and also share our personal top beagle food picks for 2025.
What to Think About When Buying Dog Food for Your Beagle
Choosing the right dog food for your beagle will give them the best chance at a healthy, happy, and long life. There are a few factors to consider when making your decision, including the overall food quality and your pup’s life stage, calorie needs, and health concerns. Here’s more on what to keep in mind when buying dog food for your beagle.
Food Quality
Beagles require food that has been specially formulated to support their high energy levels and muscular builds. The kibble should be rich in protein and also contain plenty of healthy fats, minerals, and vitamins.
Avoid poor-quality foods that contain artificial additives, meat byproducts, or an excessive amount of filler ingredients (like corn). You should also check the packaging to ensure the first ingredient listed is a high-quality whole protein source, like lamb or salmon.
Food Allergies
Beagles often experience food intolerances, which can lead to itchy skin and digestive issues like abdominal pain and constipation. Common allergens include corn, soy, dairy products, chicken, and beef.
If you suspect your beagle has a food allergy, it’s best to consult your veterinarian or an animal nutritionist before making dietary changes. They can help you identify your pup’s allergies through an elimination diet, which involves putting them on a restricted meal plan and monitoring their behaviors and reactions to certain foods.
Calorie Needs
Beagles need a good amount of calories to sustain their high energy levels and overall health, especially as puppies while they’re still growing. However, this breed is also prone to overeating, so it’s important you monitor their portion sizes carefully and don’t overfeed them. Too many calories can lead to obesity and cause health issues like joint problems, diabetes, and heart disease.
In general, you can expect a beagle to require around 650 calories per day, with the exact intake amount depending on their size, metabolism, age, activity level, and health. As a rough guideline, you should ideally be feeding your beagle around 30 to 40 calories for every pound of weight. Working beagles with particularly active lifestyles may require more — up to 60 calories per pound of weight.
Special Health Needs of Beagles
As we touched on earlier, beagles are particularly prone to obesity. If your beagle is struggling with weight gain, you may need to put them on a low-calorie food like Hill’s Science Diet Management — we’ll provide an in-depth review of this dog food shortly.
Beagles are also susceptible to health complications such as epilepsy, ear infections, joint problems, periodontal disease, and hypothyroidism. Make sure to familiarize yourself with these common health concerns and adjust their diet accordingly (with consultation from a vet) if they start showing symptoms.
You should also consider dog foods formulated with ingredients that promote joint health, like glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids.
Life Stage
The exact type of nutrition your beagle needs can vary depending on their age. As puppies, they’ll need food specifically formulated to support their growth and development, while as seniors, they’ll benefit more from foods that provide joint support. Beagles also require fewer calories as they get older because they aren’t as active and their metabolisms slow down.
When purchasing dog food, always look at the life stage it’s formulated for. This information should be readily available on the packaging, whether for puppies, adults, seniors, or all life stages.
Wet Versus Dry Food
Wet food is easier to chew and can help your beagle feel fuller for longer, while dry food promotes good oral hygiene and won’t spoil as easily. Beagles can benefit from a mix of both, but always be mindful of their food sensitivities. You should also consider your beagle’s personal preferences, which leads us nicely to our next point.
Your Beagle’s Preferences
Beagles aren’t exactly picky eaters. In fact, they’re renowned for the opposite: They often scavenge for food and eat practically anything they can sniff out.
That said, this isn’t the case for every beagle, and dogs will always have preferences for certain textures, flavors, and smells over others. Honoring your pup’s taste buds will ensure they enjoy their mealtime while getting all the essential nutrients they need to thrive.
The Best Dog Food for Beagles
Our team researches popular dog products to provide reviews and insights. If you choose to purchase using the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which helps support our work at no additional cost to you. Now that you’re familiar with the key considerations, it’s time to check out some of the best dog food options for beagles on the market. We’ve carefully selected the products below because of their high-quality ingredients and great reputation among fellow owners (and pups!). We’ve also made sure to include a range of different types of dog food, so you’re sure to find an option that suits your beagle’s individual needs and preferences.
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach, Adult Salmon & Rice Formula, Digestive Health
Our Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5 out of 5
Why we like it
This kibble is high in protein and formulated specifically for dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin.Key Notes
Easy to digest, promotes good immune health, and comes in a range of flavors and sizes.
This Purina Pro Plan dog food offers a balanced blend of omega fatty acids, high-quality salmon, and antioxidants that all work together to nourish your dog’s immune system and coat. The formula also excludes common allergy triggers like wheat and soy, making it gentle on sensitive stomachs. Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach comes in various flavor options, including salmon and rice and lamb and oatmeal, and a range of packaging sizes to accommodate different budgets and needs. You can also purchase this formula in a dried or fresh consistency. Just be mindful that while the dried kibble form is easy to chew, the texture can be slightly powdery, which some dogs may struggle with. Consider the fresh formula or opt for one of the other dried kibble products below if your beagle prefers a crunchier texture.Pros
- Easy to digest and made from high-quality salmon pieces
- Excludes common allergy triggers like wheat, soy, and corn
- Antioxidants and omega fatty acids for good immune health
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the powdery texture
Eukanuba Medium Puppy Growth Food
Our Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5 out of 5
Why we like it
This dry kibble will give your beagle puppy all the nutrients they need for healthy muscle growth and bone development.Key Notes
Supports growing medium-breed puppies, promotes good dental hygiene, and comes in recyclable packaging.
From calcium to strengthen bones to immune system-boosting vitamins, every ingredient in the Eukanuba food has been strategically selected to support a medium-breed pup’s growing body. The unique hexagonal kibble shape (in combination with polyphosphate) also helps to tackle tartar buildup and keep your puppy's teeth clean. The Eukanuba dry food comes in sturdy, resealable packaging that can also be recycled through the TerraCycle program, making it a great choice for eco-conscious owners. However, the food does contain chicken, which may trigger allergies in certain beagles. If your pup has a sensitive stomach, consider opting for a food with a fish protein source instead.Pros
- Specially formulated for medium-sized puppies
- Unique kibble shape and minerals promote good dental hygiene
- Resealable, recyclable packaging
Cons
- Chicken may trigger allergies in some beagles
Hill’s Science Diet Management
Our Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.5 out of 5
Why we like it
This vet-recommended formula can help beagles maintain a healthy weight, and it doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition while doing so.Key Notes
Low in calories, fiber-rich, and packed with vitamins and L-carnitine.
Hill’s Science Diet Management is a veterinarian-recommended dog food specifically designed to tackle excess weight gain — something beagles are particularly notorious for. The kibble is low in calories, nutritionally balanced, and contains natural fibers that help your pup feel fuller for longer. The formula also includes L-Carnitine, which works to convert body fat into energy and helps maintain lean muscle mass. Just be aware that this kibble may not be suitable for beagles with sensitive stomachs due to the added grain sources like corn. You should also always consult a veterinarian before putting your pup on a weight management food.Pros
- Formulated for weight management
- Veterinarian-recommended formula
- 3 sizes to choose from (5-pound, 15-pound, and 30-pound)
Cons
- May not be suitable for beagles with sensitive stomachs
Royal Canin Beagle Dog Food
Our Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.5 out of 5
Why we like it
Formulated specifically with a beagle’s size, activity level, and nutritional needs in mind.Key Notes
Recipe adapted for beagles, supports weight management, and aids digestion.
From the calorie content to the ingredients, the Royal Canin dry dog food has been carefully formulated in every way to accommodate the beagle’s unique characteristics and nutritional needs. The food also contains fibers, glucosamine, and omega-3 fatty acids like EPA to aid overall health. The kibbles have a unique shape and texture that help to slow down your pup’s eating during mealtime. While this can aid digestion, be mindful of your beagle’s personal preferences — not all dogs will find this kibble style palatable.Pros
- Recipe tailored to beagle’s nutritional needs
- Unique shape and texture of kibble helps slow down eating
- Supports weight management and overall health
Cons
- Not all dogs will find the unique kibble style palatable
Orijen Grain-Free Small Breed Dog Food
Our Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4 out of 5
Why we like it
This grain-free dog kibble is formulated for sensitive stomachs and is packed full of high-quality proteins, including turkey, chicken, and salmon.Key Notes
Grain-free formula, rich in protein, and freeze-dried coated.
This grain-free dog food isn’t just easy on sensitive stomachs; it’s also packed full of whole proteins that'll keep even the most active beagle satisfied and energized. The kibbles also come in a unique shape that’s easier for small mouths to chew, and contains essential nutrients and vitamins like vitamin E, omega fatty acids, and probiotics. What’s more, the kibble is freeze-dried coated to add an extra burst of flavor and aroma. While this is sure to appeal to the beagle’s ultra-strong sniffer, it can be overwhelming on the human nose. Consider another dog food if you’re particularly sensitive to odors.Pros
- Packed with high-quality whole proteins
- Grain-free formula
- Freeze-dried coated for added flavor and aroma
Cons
- Strong odor can be overwhelming
Your Guide to Buying Dog Food for Beagles
Meeting your beagle’s nutritional needs will allow them to live life to the fullest. The right food will support their body, give them all the energy they need to play, and reduce the chances of health issues.
We’ll finish up by addressing a few frequently asked questions owners have about feeding beagles, including how to introduce new foods safely and how often these pups should be fed.
How Do I Introduce New Food to Beagles
Beagles have sensitive stomachs and often can’t tolerate sudden changes in their diets. Due to this, it’s vital you introduce new foods gradually. Start by mixing a small amount (15% to 25%) of the new food into your pup’s current food, and slowly increase the ratio over the next week until it replaces the old food entirely. Monitor your pup closely for signs of a reaction during this time.
What Are the Signs of Food Allergies in Beagles?
Common signs of food allergies in beagles include skin irritation, excessive itching, stomach pain, and digestive issues like diarrhea and excessive flatulence.
If you suspect your beagle is suffering from a food allergy, contact a vet immediately for further support. They’ll be able to help you identify your beagle’s allergy triggers and rule out other health concerns that may be causing their symptoms.
How Do I Prevent Obesity in Beagles?
Closely monitor your beagle’s food portion sizes, break large treats into small pieces, and avoid feeding them table scraps. You should also make sure they’re getting at least 90 minutes of exercise per day. If your beagle is often led astray by their nose, consider purchasing a dog-proof trash can and avoid leaving food out in accessible places.
You may also want to invest in a slow feeder dog bowl for your beagle. As the name suggests, a slow feeder bowl is designed specifically to make your pup eat more slowly, helping with digestion.
Slow feeder bowls come in a range of different styles and shapes, and they can also provide a great source of mental enrichment for your beagle. Make sure to invest in a bowl that’s durable and made from food-grade materials.
How Often Should a Beagle Be Fed?
The exact feeding frequency will depend on your beagle's age, activity level, and size. However, in general, you should be feeding your beagle two times a day to help them feel satiated. When in doubt, refer to your beagle’s kibble packaging for the recommended feeding guidelines.
Should I Put My Beagle on a Grain-Free Diet?
Many dog foods on the market contain grains like barley since they offer a good source of fiber and can help pups feel fuller for longer. While most dogs can consume grains in small amounts without any issues, dogs with sensitive stomachs often struggle to digest grains and experience adverse effects like diarrhea.
If your beagle suffers from food sensitivities, you should definitely consider putting them on a limited-ingredient or grain-free diet. Speak to your veterinarian for nutritional guidance and advice.
Choosing the Right Dog Food for Beagles
Choosing the right dog food for your beagle can be challenging, especially with so many options on the market. However, considering their specific needs, health concerns, and preferences can help you narrow down your options and find a food that supports both their health and happiness.
As some closing advice, remember to always consult a veterinarian when making dietary changes. A vet will be able to help you determine the best food for your pup’s individual needs, and they can also run checks to identify any food allergies.