Medium dog breeds are definitely the best of both worlds. They generally possess some traits of both small and large dogs. Moreover, their maintenance also falls somewhere in the middle. They also fall in the weight range of 20-60 pounds.
If you have been looking for a dog that’s not too big nor too small, we managed to round up some of the best and most beloved mid-sized dog breeds to choose from. Here are 40 medium dog breeds that would make the ideal companions for families and individuals. Here are some of our favorite choices, and why we think they’re the most adorable possible!
American Staffordshire Terrier
American Staffordshire terriers are definitely on the larger spectrum for medium-sized dogs, since their female AmmStaffs are slightly smaller than the males. They often appear larger than they are because of their muscular bodies and broad heads. These dogs are extremely affectionate and energetic, and they make beautiful companions for active households.
Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian cattle dog is a brilliant and active dog breed, situated right in the middle of the medium-size category. This compact and athletic dog is quite driven to work. The breed can get very curious, alert, as well as loyal, and this dog is always in need of something new to challenge their mind on a daily basis.
Australian Shepherd
The Australian shepherd is one of the most intelligent, high-energy, medium-sized dog breeds. Their herding breed is extremely agile and athletic; therefore, they are well-suited to dog sports, like flying discs and agility. Moreover, Aussies tend to be loyal and friendly, so much so that they make the best companions. However, they also require an outlet for their high mental and physical energy.
Basenji
The basenji, a medium-sized hound breed originating from Africa, is one of the most unique canines, with a fascinating set of characteristics. Also known as the “barkless dog,” the basenji’s voice resembles a yodel or chortle rather than the usual barking sound.
Their short and sleek coat and their proud ears only add to their elegant appearance. Independent and clever, the basenji possesses a cat-like inclination for proper grooming and cleanliness. Despite their sometimes aloof nature with strangers, the basenji forms some of the deepest bonds with their loved ones, offering loyalty and devotion to those who get to earn their trust.
Basset Hound
The basset hound is one of the easiestgoing dogs, and it definitely has a distinct appearance. As these dogs are built low to the ground and they have short and cute legs, they still weigh a bit, especially in the medium-size spectrum.
Basset owners need to keep their dogs’ ears and coats clean, since the breed is prone to ear infections, as well as skin issues. Otherwise, they are wonderful dogs that fit very well with quiet to moderately active households.
Beagle
The happy-go-lucky beagle is also a favorite among those who truly wish to have a dog that is somehow active and also very friendly and sweet. Beagles generally fall on the small side of the medium range. This basically means that they are compact enough to fit in smaller spaces, but also durable enough to handle energetic play or even a longer hike.
Bearded Collie
The bearded collie is one of the smartest, most outgoing dog breeds. It generally hovers at 50 pounds, but in reality, the dog is much smaller than it seems. A fluffy coat instantly gives them a large and imposing presence, but the frame underneath it is lean and agile. Owners of such a breed will have to keep up with coat care, especially since regular brushing to remove tangles and prevent mats is mandatory.
Border Collie
The border collie is also one of the smartest dog breeds, but also a high-energy pup. This medium-sized dog packs plenty of athleticism into his compact body and loves working. Mental and physical challenges are also a must to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. These dogs can make very affectionate companions, especially in active households.
Boykin Spaniel
The Boykin spaniel is one of the friendliest, most alert dogs that can make a wonderful bird dog and a relatively easygoing house pet. It generally weighs less than 40 pounds, and it’s a dog of great size for flushing out games or just cuddling on the couch.
The Boykin tends to spend hours in the water and is also known to be a skilled swimmer. With constant exercise, this breed can turn out to be a relaxed companion for any type of household.
Brittany
This dog breed is yet another medium-sized dog that excels at hunting. This high-energy breed thrives on physical activity, whether it is hunting or a dog sport like agility. All in all, it is advised to keep your Brittany active and engaged, and you will find that this type of breed is an upbeat, affectionate companion. But it can also get bored without enough activity, and it should live in an active home, if possible.
Bulldog
The bulldog is a stout dog, commonly known for their short muzzle and tendency to snore. As bulldogs are low to the ground, they still weigh in the middle of the medium-sized dog range, because of their muscle mass.
Young bulldogs can get quite energetic, but they also tend to slow down into adulthood. They can get quite friendly, and they’re known to be calm companions, even if they often face skin, breathing, and orthopedic issues, among other things.
Bull Terrier
The bull terrier is really a wonderful and playful goofball of a dog. These dogs are short and very stout, but luckily, their large-boned, muscular bodies firmly put them in the medium-size dog category.
They have bursts of energy quite often, as well as a clownish attitude towards their playmates. All in all, this makes them very entertaining to be around. Plenty of exercise and training is often needed to keep this breed from becoming restless and hyperactive.
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
The Cardigan Welsh corgi is yet another medium-sized herding breed hailing from Wales, with a huge personality packed into a petite frame. They are quite low to the ground but distinguished from the Pembroke by their long tail and rounded ears.
Cardigans were technically bred to drive cattle and have retained their herding instincts and smartness, which makes them highly trainable. With a loving and caring nature, the Cardigan forms strong bonds with family and is really great with children.
Chow Chow
Even if their fluffy coats make them seem much larger, the chow chow is, in reality, a medium-sized breed hailing from China. They are also easy to recognize, due to their lion-like manes and unique blue-black tongue.
Known for being always aloof and independent, the chow exudes a special air of regal elegance. They often seem more reserved with strangers, but with their family, they are very affectionate and fiercely protective. The chow’s dense double coat requires constant grooming to maintain its impressive appearance.
Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel can be “found” on the smaller side of the medium range, which also makes it a good fit for your home if you don’t own a lot of space. These dogs are generally happy and playful companions, and on top of that, they only need moderate exercise. If the Cocker’s coat is kept long enough, daily brushing is very important. Also, you want to pay close attention to the ears, since they are prone to infection.
Dalmatian
Well-known for its distinctive spots, the Dalmatian is more on the larger end of the medium dog range. This breed is known to be quite active and athletic, even if some Dalmatians can also have a stubborn streak or nervous tendencies. Most of them, however, are mainly aloof with strangers. Consistent training, socialization, and proper exercise are all key to keeping this dog happy and healthy.
English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel is yet another medium-sized bird dog, surprisingly athletic and determined while hunting. At home, he can be a friendly companion who only aims to please. Springers are playful dogs, as they really appreciate spending time with the entire family. But this breed does best in fairly active homes, so make sure you can provide that before adopting one.
Keeshond
The Keeshond is a medium-sized spitz-type breed that originates from the Netherlands. They have a beautiful, thick double coat, with abundant ruff, plumed tail, and a distinctive spectacle-like marking around their eyes. They’re bred as a versatile working dog, with impressive intelligence and agility, as well as loyalty. With quite a friendly and outgoing nature, the keeshond makes a wonderful family pet, getting along very well with children and other animals. They’re vocal and vigilant, keeping everyone on their toes if there’s a potential intruder.
Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue terrier is quite large for its breed, but this one still falls into the medium-sized dog category overall. The breed is best known for the coat that comes in different shades of blue to gray. This is one of the smartest, most energetic dogs, loving people deeply being one of its key features. But they don’t do very well in low-activity households or being left alone for long periods.
Miniature American Shepherd
The Miniature American Shepherd is basically just a smaller version of the Australian Shepherd. Just like their cousins, the breed is great when it comes to herding. They are wildly smart and energetic. Miniature American Shepherds are a wonderful choice for someone who wants a smart, active, affectionate dog, such as the Aussie, but in a much smaller package.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a long-bodied dog with short legs and a very distinctive set of upright set of ears. Even if they’re low on the ground, the breed is very athletic and powerful for its own size, which makes it a wonderful herding dog. Corgis are super friendly and affectionate, and they can also act as bright and alert watchdogs. A separate breed from the similar Cardigan Welsh corgi, the Pembroke doesn’t have a tail, and its ears are more pointed.
Poodle (Standard)
When you think of poodles, you might be tempted to picture at first a miniature or even a toy poodle. Understandable, really. However, the standard poodle, renowned for its elegance and intelligence, is more of a medium-sized dog breed with the most beautiful curly, low-shedding coat. They possess an impressive capacity to train and a remarkable wit, with which they are able to excel in various roles, from being a loyal companion to a very skilled performer in dog shows and participating in obedience and agility activities.
Samoyed
The Samoyed, a beloved medium-sized breed coming from Siberia, is a working dog breed well-known for its white and fluffy coat and the cutest smiling expression. Bred for herding reindeer and pulling sleds, the Samoyed boasts beauty and utility at the same time. They have a thick, double coat that keeps them very warm in cold climates, but it also requires constant grooming to keep a pristine appearance. With a friendly and gentle demeanor, the Samoyed can be very affectionate with family, and it also tends to be good-natured with children and other pets.
Shar-Pei
The Chinese Shar-Pei is known for its loose, wrinkled skin, with bristle hair and a funny, distinctive “hippopotamus” muzzle. At first, it was bred as a versatile working dog, but they came to possess an increasingly stronger and more independent spirit, which makes them amazing guardians and protectors. The Shar-Pei is very devoted and affectionate towards family, but it can be quite reserved with strangers. The right training and socialization are very important.
Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky, an astute working breed coming from Siberia, is a striking and energetic dog well-known for its captivating blue or multicolored eyes and thick double coat. Bred to endure the harshest Arctic conditions, the husky is brilliantly agile and well-suited for pulling sleds over longer distances. They have a friendly and outgoing nature, which makes them a wonderful family companion. However, due to their strong instinct to roam, as well as their independent spirit, proper training and supervision are needed. The husky thrives in active environments that offer ample exercise options and the right mental stimulation.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The soft coated wheaten terrier is famous for its plush coat and joyful demeanor. It’s what makes them so special. This medium-sized breed sheds very little, but it needs constant care to prevent tangles and mats. Consistent training and exercise are much needed to keep the stubborn terrier streak under control. All in all, they are smart, friendly, and loyal, adapting well to all kinds of households.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire bull terrier comes from England, and it is one of the most robust and affectionate dogs out there. Naturally, they’re commonly known for their muscular build and endearing smile. But how many people know how loving they are? They possess a very gentle nature, especially with children, which has earned them the nickname “nanny dog.” Socialising is very important for them, but this breed’s devotion to its family exceeds anything you can imagine.
Standard Schnauzer
The standard schnauzer is both a medium-sized dog and the medium-sized version of the schnauzer between the miniature and giant types. This bold, quite spirited dog has plenty of energy, is known to be an alert watchdog, and it can also get quite stubborn without the right amount of training.
Vizsla
The Vizsla is yet another medium-sized sporting breed from Hungary, with a sleek, beautiful golden-rust coat that requires minimal grooming. Renowned as a particularly skilled hunting dog, this breed has a keen sense of smell and impressive retrieving abilities. But their biggest strength lies in the strong bonds they have with their family. The “Velcro” Viszla is very sociable, and it thrives on companionship, which makes it the right choice for active households.
Whippet
Whippets look very similar to greyhounds, but they’re the smaller package version. Just like greyhounds, whippets are very fast and athletic. These friendly and affectionate canines can make wonderful companions, just as long as you don’t mind the fact that they’re relentlessly chasing anything that moves. Oh, they can also outrun you, no matter your physical condition. The breed requires minimal grooming, but tons of exercise.
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