You might have many questions as a new dog lover willing to get a dog.
You might wonder, ‘What kind of dog should I get?’ There are so many breeds, from tiny Gold Retrievers to Terriers.
But how do you choose between them? Most dog owners choose medium-sized dog breeds because they don’t need much time and energy.
Medium-sized dogs come in different shapes and sizes. Some have long legs, while others are short and stocky.
Also, they’re great companions that provide lots of exercise and entertainment.
A medium-sized dog might be perfect for you if you want a pet that won’t need constant attention.
Below is a list of popular medium-sized dog breeds you should know.
Read on!
1. American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a sturdy dog with a strong jawline. It is classified under the Terrier group and on the large side of medium-sized dog breeds.
However, their weights can vary; the males can weigh anywhere from 50-71 pounds, while the females weigh about 40-50 pounds.
Also, this breed is brilliant and trainable, has a friendly personality, and is an affectionate companion. So, it’s a good choice for families who like to spend time together. Further, this breed has a shiny, short coat that can come in various colors.
2. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherd is another intelligent medium-sized dog breed. They’re popular as working dogs and excellent at herding and guarding livestock. While the males weigh about 65 pounds, the females weigh about 55 pounds.
This herding breed is energetic and always playing around. So, it needs plenty of exercise to keep it healthier. Moreover, the Australian Shepherd is smart enough to learn tricks and commands. Thus, training them would be easy for the owner.
3. Basset Hound
Basset Hound is a sturdy medium-sized dog called a “puppy dog.” It’s a versatile dog that works well in rural and urban environments. However, their size makes them ideal for apartment living; they weigh about 15 inches.
This breed is a natural hunter chasing down prey like rabbits or squirrels. So, it makes a great family pet. The Basset Hound comes in several colors, including black, brown, red, blue, and white.
Moreover, these dogs are friendly, playful, and love attention. So they will enjoy running around and playing fetch with their owners.
They are not aggressive towards other pets or children. However, they may become defensive if strangers try to touch them.
4. American Foxhound
Foxhounds are medium-sized dogs that originated in England. These dogs were bred to hunt foxes. Their coats are thick and dense, which helps them stay warm during cold weather.
They are very active and require regular exercise. This breed loves to run and play, but they’ll tire easily. So, ensure your home has ample space for them to move around.
Further, these dogs are gentle and loyal companions. So, they are excellent for people who don’t want to work hard all day. Plus, they’re great with kids because they’re calm and patient.
5. Bulldog
Bulldogs are one of the most famous medium dog breeds in the world. In the past, people used them to guard homes and businesses. Today, bulldogs still have a reputation for being fierce guardians.
However, bulldogs are also known for being loving and obedient. So, they make great family pets. Bulldog puppies grow up quickly and mature into adults within two years.
These popular breeds are bulky, weighing between 75-100 pounds. But they’re also agile and athletic. So, they need lots of room to roam around and play.
The Bulldog’s coat is rough and coarse, making it resistant to heat and cold. Its color varies from solid black to brindle.
6. Beagle
Beagles are lively and energetic medium dog breeds that originated in Europe. People often use Beagles as hunting dogs, which are famous for their intelligence.
This intelligent dog breed is speedy and agile. So, it requires daily walks and exercise to maintain its health. Plus, they’re fun to watch when they’re running around.
Their coats are smooth and soft, so they shed less than medium-sized dog breeds. Also, this breed has a short nose and round ears.
7. Chow Chow
Chows are medium-sized dogs with long legs and tails. They originated in China and were originally used to herd livestock. Nowadays, people keep Chows as companion animals.
Moreover, these dogs are intelligent, affectionate, and eager to please. They’re good with children and other pets. Also, Chows are excellent swimmers, and you can train them to retrieve items.
8. Border Collies
Border collies are powerful and athletic dogs. These dogs originate in Scotland and Ireland. Border collies are usually used to pull carts or plow fields.
They’re firm and have an independent spirit. However, border collies are friendly and playful. Plus, they love to run and play fetch.
Border collies need regular training and socialization. This means they need to spend time playing with people and other dogs.
9. Bull Terrier
Bull terriers are muscular and aggressive medium-sized dog breeds. They originated in England, and people bred them to protect sheep from predators.
Today, bull terriers are still used for herding and guarding. However, they are very territorial and can become aggressive if threatened.
These dogs are very protective of their owners and family members. Plus, they’re happy to work hard for treats.
Further, the Bull Terrier needs lots of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy. So, make sure your pet gets enough physical activity.
10. Golden Retriever
Golden retrievers are medium-sized dogs that originated in England. However, they are among the most popular dog breeds in the United States.
This breed was developed to retrieve game birds such as ducks and geese. Today, golden retrievers are excellent pets for families with children.
Golden retrievers are affectionate and loving dogs. They’re also very energetic and playful. Plus, these dogs are great with kids.
Their activity level is high, meaning they need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to kill boredom. So, ensure that your dog has fun activities to keep him occupied.
11. Labrador Retriever
Labradors are large, sturdy, and loyal breeds that originated in Newfoundland. They are intelligent, trainable, devoted, and among the most popular dog breeds.
Also, Labradors are very agile and fast. Plus, they’re great with kids. Labrador retrievers have an active lifestyle, meaning they need lots of exercise and stimulation.
They enjoy running around and playing fetch. So, only active households should get this dog, as they must ensure that Labrador spends plenty of time outside and gets some exercise.
12. Airedale Terrier
The Airedale is a small, short-haired, intelligent dog originating in Yorkshire, England. The Airedale is often referred to as the “working terrier.”
This breed is used to herd livestock and guard property. Plus, they’re good watchdogs. The Airedale needs lots of exercise and mental challenges. It’s important to provide your dog with daily walks or playtime.
13. Bearded Collies
Bearded collies are medium-sized working dogs that originated in Scotland. They were originally bred to herd cattle.
However, today, bearded collies are used for hunting and retrieving. Plus, they’re extremely loyal and gentle toward strangers.
Bearded collies need lots of exercise and mental stimulation. They like to be busy and entertained. So, ensure you give your dog plenty of opportunities to run around and play.
14. Poodle
Poodles are medium-sized dogs with long hair that originated in Germany. They are famous for being friendly, smart, and obedient.
Plus, poodles are very easygoing and love attention. These dogs are highly social animals. And they thrive on human interaction.
So, it’s important to spend quality time with your poodle. Play games together, take them out for walks, and let them interact with other people.
15. Pointer
Pointers are medium-sized dogs from England famous for their keen senses and ability to find things. These dogs can be trained to hunt rabbits and hares. Plus, they’re very alert and protective.
Pointers require lots of exercise and mental challenges. They enjoy running around, so ensure you allow your pointer to do his favorite pastime.
