Medium-Sized Dog Breeds for Every Dog Owner
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Medium-sized dog breeds range in weight from about 25 to 50 pounds and have a little bit of everything for the prospective dog owner — they can live in small spaces or with those who have significant acreage. They are usually sturdy but can still fit on your lap for a cuddle.
While their size is the same, their personalities and characteristics are not — they vastly vary in looks, temperament and agility. But there's a medium dog for everyone here, so check out these suggestions for some well-loved and popular mid-size breeds that you can add to your family!
Airedale Terrier
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Standing about 23-inches tall and weighing in at a comfortable 55 pounds, the Airedale is known as the "king of terriers." Airedales were fierce, loyal companions to Yorkshire poachers who hunted game, such as water rats and foxes. In the mid-1800s, some of the dogs were crossed with Otterhounds to enhance their scent-gathering skills and hunting prowess.
Today, this bold, playful and intelligent dog is a wonderful family companion, but they need mental and physical stimulation daily. Without it, the Airedale Terrier can be stubborn and domineering.
Airedale Terrier Overview
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Temperament: Friendly, Clever, Courageous
Height: 23 inches
Weight: 50-70 pounds
Life Expectancy: 11-14 years
* All breed information is sourced from the American Kennel Club.
Airedale Terrier in Action
Bulldog
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The English Bulldog has a violent history through no fault of their own. The breed descended from Roman Mastiffs that were used in the bloody sport of bull-baiting (dogfighting). Since then, the Bulldog has been bred into a gentle but stocky lapdog that is happy to loaf about on the couch. They may look tough, but they’re actually very sweet and playful with almost everyone they meet.
Because of their size and their flat faces, bulldogs can have respiratory issues, so it's essential to their well-being to keep them inside on particularly hot days.
Bulldog Overview
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Temperament: Friendly, Courageous, Calm
Height: 14-15 inches
Weight: 50 pounds (male), 40 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
Australian Shepherd
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The Australian Shepherd has it all — looks, intelligence and agility. However, they instinctively herd pretty much every living thing they come across — even kids!
The breed’s strong work ethic is not for the casual or sedentary owner. You need to be on your toes physically and mentally — as this pup needs about 60 minutes of exercise daily to shed their restless energy.
Australian Shepherd Overview
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Temperament: Smart, Work-Oriented, Exuberant
Height: 20-23 inches (male), 18-21 inches (female)
Weight: 50-65 pounds (male), 40-55 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Australian Shepherd in Action
German Shorthaired Pointer
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The German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) was bred to spend long hours in the field as a bird dog and hunter. Standing about 25-inches tall, this breed is known for its power, speed, agility and endurance, which means daily physical activities, such as swimming or running, are a must.
GSPs are happy, intelligent and easily trainable dogs that bond firmly to their chosen families.
German Shorthaired Pointer Overview
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Temperament: Friendly, Smart, Willing to Please
Height: 23-25 inches (male), 21-23 inches (female)
Weight: 55-70 pounds (male), 45-60 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
German Shorthaired Pointer in Action
Basset Hound
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The short, stocky dog breed with doleful eyes looks like it needs help, but looks can be deceiving. This breed is actually a compact powerhouse, with plenty of strength and stamina.
Bred for the hunt, their scenting ability is second only to that of the Bloodhound. Bassetts enjoy the company of other dogs and are happy to spend endless hours playing with the kids. Ensure your Basset gets plenty of exercise — while not as active as other medium-sized breeds, they do require regular physical activity (a simple walk will do) to keep their weight down and their joints healthy.
Basset Hound Overview
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Temperament: Charming, Patient, Low-Key
Height: Up to 15 inches
Weight: 40-65 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-13 years
Collie
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The Collie has a long-established reputation as a family companion, so much so that the ever-popular Lassie character has had several movies and TV series based on him. The breed hails from Scotland and is a capable herding dog. Collies are sensitive, intelligent and loyal to a fault. They love giving and receiving affection.
If you work long hours, though, the Collie may not be the dog for you, as they don't like being alone for very long. They require love and companionship from all members of the family and are always eager to return it.
Collie Overview
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Temperament: Devoted, Graceful, Proud
Height: 24-26 inches (male), 212-24 inches (male)
Weight: 60-75 pounds (male), 50-65 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Siberian Husky
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A born pack dog, the Siberian Husky possesses power and athleticism, which they once used as sled dogs. Some still work in this capacity, but most are family dogs that enjoy spending time with their loved ones and other dogs. However, they will chase smaller animals, so give them a running area free of squirrels and other creatures that may inhabit your yard.
Huskies are highly intelligent, quick to learn, and eager to please, but they don't do well as guard dogs because they're instinctively too friendly. While they have a thicker coat than many other breeds, Siberians have little odor and are very clean.
Siberian Husky Overview
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Temperament: Loyal, Outgoing, Mischievous
Height: 21-23.5 inches (male), 20-22 inches (female)
Weight: 45-60 pounds (male), 35-50 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Labrador Retriever
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The famously friendly Labrador Retriever comes in yellow, black and chocolate colors, and has big, soulful eyes that mirror their loving character. No wonder Labs are one of the most popular dogs in the world. There is no one — animal or human — these companionable pups don't like. They are social and always easy-going, but don't mistake this trait for low energy.
Labs are athletic and require a lot of exercise to keep from gaining weight. They also need mental stimulation and consistent grooming to keep their dense, thick coat from matting.
Labrador Retriever Overview
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Temperament: Friendly, Active, Outgoing
Height: 22.5-24.5 inches (male), 21.5-23.5 inches (female)
Weight: 65-80 pounds (male), 55-70 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Labrador Retriever in Action
Poodle
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Poodles have a reputation for being dainty, and they appear elegant, but their reality is much different. They come from hearty working retriever stock and are quite athletic. This active, intelligent dog does not wish to live a life of quiet luxury — they’re energetic hunters that love to run, fetch and swim.
The better you know a Poodle, the better your relationship to them will be, as the dog is reserved around strangers. The Poodle is also an excellent companion for kids.
Poodle Overview
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Temperament: Active, Proud, Very Smart
Height: Over 15 inches
Weight: 60-70 pounds (male), 40-50 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-18 years
Boxer
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Boxers are the canine world's clowns — they're curious, fun and often hilarious. They are lesser-known as athletes and, due to their protective nature, make great family guardians. They take their job as a watchdog very seriously and will meet any threat to their loved ones head-on.
Boxers are incredibly patient, which makes them an excellent dog for small children. However, if you're planning on getting one, socialize it early, so there will be few issues with other animals and people later on.
Boxer Overview
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Temperament: Bright, Fun-Loving, Active
Height: 23-25 inches (male), 21.5-23.5 inches (female)
Weight: 65-80 pounds (male), 50-65 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Australian Cattle Dog
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Bred to herd cattle on vast lands, the Australian Cattle Dog loves to work, and while some are still employed in this capacity, they also love carrying out their duties as family dogs. They're athletic and love all kinds of sports. They do exceptionally well at agility, obedience, rally, flyball and flying-disc competitions.
If you're new to dog ownership or live in an apartment space, you should know that the Australian Cattle Dog gets bored quickly and needs a lot of mental and physical stimulation. Without it, they can be prone to destructive behavior.
Australian Cattle Dog Overview
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Temperament: Alert, Curious, Pleasant
Height: 18-20 inches (male), 17-19 inches (female)
Weight: 35-50 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-16 years
Australian Cattle Dog in Action
American Eskimo Dog
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The American Eskimo has a dense, sparkling white coat. Its name is a bit of a misnomer — they were bred by German farmers and brought to the U.S. in the 1800s. They didn't stay on the farm long — showbiz beckoned, and they became part of traveling circuses and vaudeville troupes, as they were agile, easily trainable and entertaining.
Today, the American Eskimo is a loving family member that is always eager to please and loves kids. They are social animals, so if you don't have the time for one, it may lead to problematic behavior. Puppy training, early socialization and plenty of physical activity will keep the breed happy and healthy.
American Eskimo Dog Overview
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Temperament: Playful, Perky, Smart
Height: 15-19 inches
Weight: 25-35 pounds
Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
American Eskimo Dog in Action
English Cocker Spaniel
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This compactly built sporting dog forever holds you in its gaze with big, dark eyes that convey unconditional love. Their long, soft ears, round head and silky coat of many colors round out a very pretty picture that makes everyone who comes across one melt.
The English Cocker Spaniel is a study in the delicate balance of temperament, construction and movement. It's an eager-to-please, loving dog breed that will tirelessly and loyally follow its owner to the ends of the Earth. Once a hunter's helper in pursuit of game, they’re now happy with the more domestic pursuits of playing with the kids or lying at your feet. They make an all-around agreeable household companion.
English Cocker Spaniel Overview
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Temperament: Energetic, Merry, Responsive
Height: 16-17 inches (male), 15-16 inches (female)
Weight: 28-34 pounds (male), 26-32 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
English Cocker Spaniel in Action
Bearded Collie
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People often mistake shaggy Beardies for Old English Sheepdogs. They do look alike at first glance, but Beardies are more lean and angular.
Beardies are an energetic handful, so make sure to train them well. They are fun, frivolous, happy dogs that get on well with everyone, including animals and kids. Keeping their interest is paramount to staving off bad behavior, as is physical activity. This breed loves the outdoors — if you want a hiking buddy to keep up with you on the trail, look no further.
Bearded Collie Overview
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Temperament: Smart, Bouncy, Charismatic
Height: 21-22 inches (male), 20-21 inches (female)
Weight: 45-55 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Border Collie
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You may recognize the Border Collie from the movie “Babe” as the two dogs that herded sheep on the farm and helped the pig become a herder himself. In the film and real life, Border Collies use their intense stare to control the flock. This, combined with their boundless energy and drive, keeps them working in fields around the world today.
Border Collies excel in athletics — they've won many competitions in obedience, flyball, agility, tracking and flying disc. They are easy to train, highly intelligent and make great family companions, but — as with every other dog of their size and intelligence — they need a lot of physical and mental stimulation. You also have to be somewhat humble to own a Border Collie; as smart as you think you are, they can occasionally outwit you. If you have the time, energy and desire for a loving, loyal companion, however, this is a dog to consider.
Border Collie Overview
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Temperament: Affectionate, Smart, Energetic
Height: 19-22 inches (male), 18-21 inches (female)
Weight: 30-55 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Bull Terrier
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The muscular Bull Terrier has gotten a bad rap over the decades for being a dangerous dog. Like the Bulldog, the breed has a background in the violent sports of bull-baiting and dogfighting. However, it’s also played the part of an upper-crust gentleman's companion dog and is a loyal family member that is very good with kids.
This breed needs early socialization with dogs and people, training sessions with plenty of positive reinforcement, regular exercise and quality time with their chosen family. All of these will make the Bull Terrier a loyal, lovable and entertaining member of your household.
Bull Terrier Overview
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Temperament: Playful, Charming, Mischievous
Height: 21-22 inches
Weight: 50-70 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-13 years
Standard Schnauzer
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Once called the Mittelschnauzer ("medium Schnauzer"), the now commonly known Standard Schnauzer has the same hallmarks of its larger and smaller counterparts — a short, wavy coat of black or salt-and-pepper colors, arched eyebrows and long whiskers that mimic a mustache.
Schnauzers were once multitasking working dogs as ratters, herders, guardians and hunters. Today, they are loyal companions to everyone in the family. They are highly protective of those they love, alert to intruders and make excellent watchdogs. Schnauzers can be fiercely independent and need consistent training with a firm but loving hand. However, if you want a couch potato, the Schnauzer is not for you. They have plenty of energy, athleticism and highly developed senses, which need to be consistently nurtured to keep them happy and healthy.
Standard Schnauzer Overview
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Temperament: Fearless, Smart, Spirit
Height: 18.5-19.5 inches (male), 17.5-18.5 inches (female)
Weight: 35-50 pounds (male), 30-45 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 13-16 years
Standard Schnauzer in Action
Shar-Pei
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One of the oldest breeds, the Shar-Pei's lineage goes back more than 2,000 years to the Han Dynasty in China. A dog of the proletariat, the breed was a master of all trades. Shar-Peis worked alongside farmers, hunters, herders and livestock guardians.
Shar-Peis are famous for their looks, but underneath all those folds and wrinkles are sturdy, intelligent, loyal companions. They possess plenty of "chill," yet are sometimes suspicious of strangers and other dogs — if there is a threat, they will rise to the occasion. A dominant personality is inherent in the Shar-Pei, so early training and socialization are essential.
Shar-Pei Overview
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Temperament: Loyal, Independent, Calm
Height: 18-20 inches
Weight: 45-60 pounds
Life Expectancy: 8-12 years
Chow Chow
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This Chinese breed is also one of the oldest. The Chow Chow began its existence with the nomadic tribes of Mongolia and later became a favorite of royal families due to its fierce lion-like appearance. Chows are quiet, dignified and often very aloof, giving off a regal air.
They are not huggers — if you have small children, you may want a different dog. The Chow does best in a home with older kids who will understand their need for space. In the right situation, they’re loving, quiet and loyal, but they will need frequent grooming and weekly brushing to keep their coat from matting.
Chow Chow Overview
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Temperament: Dignified, Bright, Serious-Minded
Height: 17-20 inches
Weight: 45-70 pounds
Life Expectancy: 8-12 years
Dalmatian
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When you think of firefighters, you can't help but think of their ready-for-anything canine companion, the Dalmation. This uniquely spotted pup is muscular and athletic, with energy to spare.
Dalmations were originally bred to guard horses and coaches, and that instinct remains, which makes them excellent watchdogs. While wary of strangers, they are a delight to be around when you get to know them. They'll go the extra mile for you in more ways than one, but make sure to engage with daily physical and mental stimulation.
Dalmatian Overview
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Temperament: Dignified, Smart, Outgoing
Height: 19-24 inches
Weight: 45-70 pounds
Life Expectancy: 11-13 years
English Springer Spaniel
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These rugged dogs were once used as hunters to flush out and retrieve game, but today, they make a loving and energetic family member. They love and crave company, so if you plan on getting a Springer, make sure you have the time to engage, as they become lonely very quickly.
Springers are polite, loyal, intelligent dogs that love kids and animals alike. Taking them on long walks, playing games of chase and fetch, and swimming with them will endear them for life.
English Springer Spaniel Overview
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Temperament: Friendly Playful, Obedient
Height: 20 inches (male), 19 inches (female)
Weight: 50 pounds (male), 40 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
English Springer Spaniel in Action
Samoyed
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The pretty sled-dog with the winning smile can take all the cold Old Man Winter brings — they were bred to move effortlessly through below-zero temperatures, due to a thick coat that's ample enough to protect them against the harshest conditions.
A bored Sammy is a destructive Sammy, so don't leave them alone for too long. This breed is smart, social, and — if it doesn't get the attention it craves — mischievous. As a pack animal, the Sammy needs to know that you're the Alpha dog — proper training is essential to their happiness and yours.
Samoyed Overview
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Temperament: Adaptable, Friendly, Gentle
Height: 21-23.5 inches (male), 19-21 inches (female)
Weight: 45-65 pounds (male), 35-50 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Vizsla
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Vizslas hail from Hungary, where they worked closely as pointers and retrievers for hunters. When a Vizzy leans against your leg or sits on your feet, they employ instinctual traits they’ve learned from over hundreds of years in the field.
Vizzies are affectionate, athletic, intelligent and loyal — they make a great addition to the family, but they do need room to roam. They are not apartment dogs — they need to burn energy daily. If you get a Vizzie, they'll be joined to you at the hip, so much so that they’ve earned the nickname "Velcro Vizsla."
Vizsla Overview
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Temperament: Affectionate, Gentle, Energetic
Height: 22-24 inches (male), 21-23 inches (female)
Weight: 55-60 pounds (male), 44-55 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Whippet
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In the 19th century, English coal miners who were fans of dog racing couldn't afford to keep Greyhounds and didn't have the space for them, so they bred smaller Greyhounds with other (unknown) breeds to create the Whippet. It paid off — the Whippet is the fastest dog of its size and can reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour.
When not exuding energy, Whippets love to relax away the hours in their favorite person's company. They can be apartment dogs, as long as they are walked frequently. Another plus — Whippets rarely bark. This robust, low-maintenance, friendly dog can adapt to any situation.
Whippet Overview
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Temperament: Affectionate, Playful, Calm
Height: 19-22 inches (male), 18-21 inches (female)
Weight: 25-40 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Keeshond
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This ancient barge dog kept sailors company and guarded Dutch vessels as they traversed man-made waterways of the Low Countries. Keeshonds also have a rebellious, working-class lineage — the "people's dog" symbolized the Dutch Patriots Party in its long opposition to the royal House of Orange in the 18th century.
Keeshonds love people and want to be involved in everything you're doing, so make sure you have time for them, as they hate being left home alone for too long. These lively, intelligent dogs make great apartment companions, but they do bark. To keep shedding to a minimum and your dog happy, make sure they’re groomed frequently and brushed at least once a week.
Keeshond Overview
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Temperament: Friendly, Lively, Outgoing
Height: 18 inches (male), 17 inches (female)
Weight: 35-45 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years