The Best Medium Sized Dogs
Not everyone can afford the space and food necessary to hold a large breed dog, and a number of people may not be fond of small breeds. Other times, people may just decide that a medium sized dog is the right fit for their lifestyle and family.
Many people prefer medium sized breeds since they are often capable of keeping up physically and doing a range of outdoor activities without the demand of larger breeds.
However, like other dogs, medium sized dog breeds contain a wide variety of temperaments, exercise levels, and basic needs. Meaning, you still need to do research. Let us take a look at some popular and manageable medium dog breeds.
This list is not in any particular order, since the needs of each owner will be different.
What Are Medium Sized Dogs?
Most medium dog breeds are descended from working dogs, and carry many of their leftover characteristics. They tend to be lively and robust, often making for good dogs for first time dog owners.
On average, most medium dog breeds weigh between 20 - 50 pounds (9 - 23 kg) and typically stand at around 14 - 20 inches at the shoulder[1]. This definition may shift a little between breeds and their general American Kennel Club standard. This can also include larger or smaller versions of certain breeds.
So don’t get too hung up on the pedantics.
The different breeds will also have a wide range of grooming, dietary, and exercise needs. Though almost all of them require daily exercise. Smaller breeds often do better with harnesses instead of collars for walking.
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1. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is originally a French breed, descended from hunting hounds likely owned by St. Hubert. They were originally bred to hunt rabbits and act as companion dogs for lords.
Standing at 14 inches at the shoulder, they are on the shorter side for medium sized dog breeds, but they still have dense bone structure, giving them a robust air and good stamina. They tend to be a variation of brown and white, sometimes with black markings, have a short coat, and signature droopy ears.
The Basset Hound has an incredible sense of smell, tends to have a mild and agreeable nature and can be very loyal to their owners, making them excellent family dogs. They are not very boisterous or active, but they can still make good walking companions.
Unfortunately, their short legs can be prone to health issues such as knee and hip dysplasia or elbow issues. Their long ears can also become prone to infection or injury, especially if not kept clean. They can also shed more than other dogs and require weekly grooming.[3]
2. Corgi
Velvet Dog Hoodie Groove
The Welsh Corgi is another one on the smaller side of the medium dog breeds spectrum. In fact, it seems like their name may descend from the Welsh word for ‘dwarf’. Their agile nature makes them a popular breed even for modern day pet owners.
Corgis have short, muscular legs, and large ears. Most corgis tend to be a fawn or tan color with white tummies, but black, and even brindle ones can be found on occasion. These medium dogs have a medium coat, and often have a bold and active personality.
Their little legs aren’t very fast, but don’t be fooled, they can be quite active and enjoy a walk or a run as much as other dogs.
They are normally pretty healthy but can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. They can also be at risk of certain genetic bleeding disorders, so always buy from responsible breeders. Their long coat needs almost daily combing and regular brushing.[3]
3. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Shorter than most Bully dog breeds, the Staffy is mixed with terrier and originates (naturally) from Staffordshire in England. Originally bred to be bull-baiters in the 19th century, they were later mixed with terriers to become companion dogs.
Bold and tenacious, Staffies are known for their squat, muscular builds, and prominent cheek muscles. They can come in a variety of colors, including white, black, mottled, brown, and brindle.
Don’t let their past ancestors put you off, as modern, responsible breeders breed for friendly natures. These dogs tend to be loyal, protective, and stubborn.
Like most other large and medium breeds, they are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. They can also be at risk for a number of eye issues. They are prone to becoming overweight and require regular exercise to stay fit. Their short coat means they don’t require a lot of grooming.[3]
4. Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle dogs, also known as a Blue or Red Heeler, are a short, muscular, breed perfect for herding cattle and sheep. They were likely a crossbreed between Shepard dogs and dingos, and have a long history of herding in the Outback.
Out of all the medium sized dog breeds, Australian cattle dogs are some of the most energetic, requiring a lot of exercise to stay healthy and happy. They are very smart and may be prone to mischief if not stimulated enough. They are very loyal and make good guard dogs.
Furthermore, they are a mostly healthy breed, with only a few of the usual hip and retinal issues that most medium dogs suffer from. These dogs also have a smooth coat that doesn’t require extensive grooming. An Australian Shepard is normally born white, with their coat turning either blue-gray or rust red as they age.[3]
5. Most Spaniels
There are many types of Spaniel, including the English Springer Spaniel, the English Cocker Spaniel, The King Charles Spaniel, and so on. Most people tend to think of the Cocker Spaniel first, but there is actually a wide variety out there - so many that I could fill up this list with just Spaniels.
The majority of Spaniels fit into the medium sized dog breed category and are all descended from gun dogs.[2]
They most likely originated in Spain, given their name, but gained popularity in France and England. They tend to be loyal, sporty, outgoing, and make great family dogs.
Spaniels are known for their long, soft ears, and often shaggy coats. This means that they can become prone to ear infections if their ears are not cleaned. Their silky coats are prone to matting and require frequent grooming.
Being working dogs, they like to be active but aren’t as demanding as some of the other dog breeds on this list.[3]
6. Bull Terrier
Another one of the ‘bully breeds’ Bull Terriers are another popular medium dog breed. Their unusual appearance, specifically their stocky bodies, thick necks, and ‘egg-shaped’ heads, have gained quite a cult following.
Bull terriers were the result of cross-breeding between Bulldogs and Old English Terriers in the 19th century. They are strong, active, fearless, and have been described as having an ‘entertaining sense of humor’ making them a popular pet.
Like most Bullies, they can suffer from hip and elbow problems, and have to be well socialized from young to get along with other animals.
Their short coats don’t need much grooming, and they often don’t require much exercise. In fact, too much exercise can be damaging to their joints.[3]
7. Whippet
The Whippet is a smaller version of the greyhound, originating in England. They are sleek, powerful runners, and are often used in dog racing sports.
These dogs tend to be quiet, calm, and gentle. Many whippet owners report that they can be quite cuddly and sweet natured.
Whippets have few major health concerns, but their lanky bodies struggle to hold extra weight, therefore they require quite a bit of exercise to stay trim and healthy. Their thin coats are easy to groom and maintain.[3]
8. Border Collie
Border Collies are extremely intelligent dogs. This breed hails from the borderlands between Scotland and England, where they have been used to herd sheep for centuries.
This high-energy breed is known for being intelligent, mischievous, and eager to please. They tend to get along well with children.
However, these are herding dogs, and they need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy - otherwise, they can become destructive.
Border Collies have long coats that can either be curly or straight. They normally have white fur but can come in an assortment of colors. Their dense undercoat and long fur require regular brushing to stay silky smooth, and they can be prone to shedding.
They are also prone to joint issues and arthritis, both of which can be avoided somewhat if they maintain a healthy weight.[3]
9. Standard Poodle
When you hear of a poodle, most people tend to think of the tiny toy breeds or even the big French Poodle. However, poodles come in a variety of sizes, and the Standard Poodle is an excellent medium-sized family pet.
Like other poodles, Standard Poodles were bred in France to be hunting dogs, chasing down waterfowl after they had been shot. They tend to be highly intelligent, easy to train, eager, and versatile.
Poodles are normally very healthy, aside from the usual joint issues, they can occasionally suffer from things such as epilepsy. Standard poodles are more prone to suffering from bloat than the smaller varieties.
Their coats tend to be curly and difficult to manage and require regular grooming. They need to be combed to the root to prevent matting, which is why many owners keep their coats trimmed short.
They are also high energy dogs, but do well with a variety of exercises, such as swimming and running.[3]
10. Samoyed
Though they may look a bit like Huskies, Samoyeds are a Spitz-type of herding dog heralding from Siberia and the native Samoyedic people who live there. They have long been used for herding, guarding, warming, and sled-pulling.
These big, fluffy white dogs are smart, social, and attention loving. They love and need the attention of their owners.
They are relatively healthy, with only the usual dysplasia and eye issues. However, they do require a lot of grooming, and their fluffy coats shed quite often. They also require a lot of exercise and do not do well when left alone for long periods of time.
Conclusion
Most Medium Dog breeds weigh between 20 - 50 pounds (9 - 23 kg) and typically stand at around 14 - 20 inches at the shoulder. Though there is a broad definition of ‘medium’.
There are a wide variety of medium breeds to suit every family, including the Basset Hound, Corgi, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Australian Cattle Dog, Most Spaniels, Bull Terrier, Whippet, Border Collie, Standard Poodle, and Samoyed. All of which have their own temperament, exercise, and grooming requirements.
While these are some of the most popular, they are only a small portion of the medium breeds out there. Take a look at what you think would fit best for you and your family, and make sure to research each breed’s needs.
Whatever dog you decide on, we are sure you will give them a good and nurturing home.
Happy Walking!
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