11 Best Medium Dog Breeds

I may be biased (obviously, haha), but I think medium dog breeds offer the best of both worlds.

Because they’re compact enough if you live in an apartment yet robust enough to be active and playful if you live in a house with a backyard.

If you are a dog lover like me, and you’re looking for the perfect furry companion that isn’t too big or too small, you’re in the right place!

In this blog post, I’ll tell you the 11 best medium dog breeds that I researched for you.

11 best medium dog breeds

Now, let’s explore each breed in more detail to understand why they made the cut and why they could be the perfect addition to your family.

1. Australian Shepherd

Did you know that Australian Shepherds originated in the United States, not Australia? (I didn’t)

These medium-sized herding dogs are intelligent and known for their loyalty and agility.

They make excellent companions if you like hiking or if you and your family just enjoy outdoor activities.

2. Bulldog

I absolutely love bulldogs’ wrinkled faces and unmistakable charm!

They are known for their friendly and laid-back personalities. If your vibe is chilling on the sofa, these medium-sized dogs are great for you.

Their unique appearance and sweet temperament make them a favorite among dog lovers.

3. Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is a breed known for its long, droopy ears and impeccable sense of smell.

Despite their somewhat comical appearance, these medium-sized dogs are incredibly gentle and well-suited for families.

They might not be the most energetic breed, but they make up for it with their affectionate nature.

4. Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dogs are a medium-sized breed with a natural affinity for water (as their name indicates 🙂

They are excellent swimmers and can be a great companion if you live near lakes, rivers, or the coast. These dogs are intelligent and are super friendly.

5. English Cocker Spaniel

The English Cocker Spaniel is a beautiful medium-sized breed known for its elegant appearance and friendly personality.

They are excellent family dogs and adapt well to various environments. Their long, silky ears and wagging tails will steal your heart.

Their cousin, the American Cocker Spaniel, was featured as Lady in the animated version of “Lady and the Tramp” Disney film.

6. Australian Cattle Dog

Australian Cattle Dogs, also known as Blue Heelers, are a medium-sized breed renowned for their herding abilities.

They are incredibly loyal and make great working dogs, but can also be affectionate companions.

These dogs thrive in active households and enjoy mentally stimulating activities.

7. English Springer Spaniel

English Springer Spaniels are medium-sized, highly energetic dogs that excel in activities like agility and flyball.

They are affectionate and make great family pets for those who lead an active lifestyle. So, be ready for regular visits to the dog park and playing fetch.

With their distinctive coat and boundless enthusiasm, they’re hard to resist.

8. Poodle

Poodles are a versatile breed available in various sizes, but the standard Poodle falls into the medium category.

While doing my research, I found that Poodles aren’t just beautiful dogs but also intelligent, extraordinary swimmers and highly trainable.

That makes them an excellent choice for families, couples, and anyone who loves these good-looking dogs.

Their hypoallergenic coats are a bonus if you have allergies.

9. Border Collie

Border Collies, often seen in the “medium-sized” category, are highly intelligent and known for their herding abilities.

They require regular mental stimulation and exercise but are incredibly loyal and affectionate too.

They’re a top choice for those who love an active lifestyle. If you enjoy long walks, running, and hiking, these can perfectly match your life.

10. Goldendoodle

The Goldendoodle is a hybrid breed, a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle.

These medium-sized dogs combine the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle with the friendly and social nature of the Golden Retriever.

Who doesn’t love Golden Retrievers? Think of Golden-doodles as Golden Retriever close cousins, with less shedding. That sounds awesome, right?

They are excellent family dogs and can adapt to various living situations. They will adapt to your routine; it doesn’t matter if you live in an apartment or a big house.

11. Brittany Spaniels

Brittany Spaniels, often simply called Brittanys, are medium-sized dogs with boundless energy and are super friendly. They excel in activities like hunting and agility but also make fantastic family pets. If you’re an active individual or family, a Brittany might be your ideal match.

Why they are good breeds?

Now that I’ve introduced you to these 11 fantastic medium-sized dog breeds, you might wonder what criteria I used to select them. These are the factors I based my decision:

Size:

Medium-sized dogs typically weigh between 30 to 60 pounds and stand around 18 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder. If you and your family want a dog that’s neither too large nor too small, this size range is perfect.

Temperament:

I selected these breeds because they are known for their friendly, affectionate, and adaptable natures. They get along well with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs.

Activity Level:

I considered breeds that could adapt to various lifestyles. Whether you and your family like hiking or chilling on the sofa, you can find one of these medium dog breeds that suit your energy level.

Trainability:

The breeds on my list are generally easy to train, making them ideal for you if you are a first-time dog owner or prefer a well-behaved trained dog.

Health and Lifespan:

While all dogs can have health issues, I considered breeds that are generally healthy and have a reasonable lifespan, varying from 10 to 15 years or more.

Coat Type:

I included breeds with various coat types, from low-shedding to hypoallergenic, to accommodate different preferences and allergies. But honestly, if you’re adopting a dog, expect some fur here or there.

Let’s be honest, adopting a dog is no joke. It has a lot of challenges, so before taking this big step, consider your lifestyle, activity level, and living situation when choosing your furry friend.

I would recommend that you research the breed thoroughly and visit breed-specific rescues. Happy dog parenting!