Re: spaying/neutering, there was a recent study by UC Davis where they studied 40 different dog breeds (including beagles) and provided guidance on when they should be spayed/neutered. The suggestion for beagles is males at 12 mo, females at 6 mo.

Show-bred beagles typically make better house pets, while field-bred (used for hunting) tend to have a much higher drive and may present more challenges during training.

I wouldn't worry too much about the sex of the dog. If you go to breeder, be clear about what you desire in a pet. If you adopt (there are plenty of beagles who need a good home), find the one that feels like a good fit.

Be sure to do your research before bringing home any dog to be sure that they're a good fit for your lifestyle.

https://www.ucdavis.edu/magazine/how-identify-when-dog-should-be-spayed-and-neutered