21 Amazing Medium-Sized Dog Breeds

Not too small and not too large, medium dog breeds are the perfect middle ground for prospective pet parents. They’re small enough to cozy up to you on the couch, but large enough to keep up with an active, outdoor lifestyle. 

With the right medium-sized dog breed, you’re getting the best of both worlds. But how do you pick the best medium-sized dog for you?

Find out which dogs fall into the medium category, including a head-to-tail rundown of each breed, and the perks of picking a mid-size canine companion.

What counts as a medium-sized dog breed?

Medium dogs come in many shapes and sizes, and it’s a broad category that includes many of the most popular dog breeds. Small dogs typically weigh under 25 pounds, while large dogs weigh over 60 pounds, which means medium dog breeds fill a broad 35-pound gap.

Medium-sized dogs fall into six of the seven AKC breed groupings, with huge diversity in appearance and temperament.

From the intelligent Border Collie to the family-friendly Labrador Retriever to the hard-working Australian Cattle Dog, it’s no wonder mid-size breeds are incredibly popular. Medium dog breeds are a great option for families who live a fairly active lifestyle but perhaps can’t commit to the robust exercise needs of a large or giant breed.

What are the best medium dog breeds?

Crowning the “best” medium dog is subjective to each pet parent — after all, each owner is looking for something different in their best friend. But some of the most popular dogs are medium-sized breeds for good reason. This medium dog breed list includes some of the best breeds and their unique characteristics.

1. Australian Shepherd

• Average height: 18 to 23 inches
• Average weight: 40 to 65 pounds

Did you know the Australian Shepherd isn’t actually from Australia? Aussies originated in the Basque country and came to America to work on farms and ranches. 

Though they’re beloved family companions, their high energy can be challenging for first-time dog owners. But with proper training and plenty of exercise, Australian Shepherds make amazing pets. Along with their energy, they’re smart and task-focused, so they need both mental and physical activities. 

If you’re interested in medium dogs that don’t shed, an Australian Shepherd may not be the best choice for you. Their double-layered coat requires regular grooming—especially during shedding season — so be prepared for frequent brushing and detangling to keep their coat healthy.

2. Border Collie

• Average height: 18 to 22 inches
• Average weight: 30 to 55 pounds

Border Collies are deeply intelligent, energetic pups who make great companions. As fantastic herding dogs, they have high social, physical, and mental needs. This means having a Border Collie is a bigger commitment than more low-key pups. With lots of energy, this athletic breed is often better suited for active people with ample time to dedicate to exercise. 

A Border Collie’s coat comes in two types: rough and smooth. Rough-coated Border Collies have a medium-length coat with feathering. Smooth-coated Border Collies have a short, coarse coat. Regardless of fur type, Border Collies require frequent brushing to maintain their dense, double-layered coat.

3. Cocker Spaniel

• Average height: 13 to 15 inches
• Average weight: 20 to 30 pounds

Gentle and joyful, Cocker Spaniels are a mid-size breed known for being great family pets. These affectionate dogs get along well with kids, other pets, and even strangers. Quick learners, Cocker Spaniels are highly trainable and eager to please during training and playtime. 

While they’re happy to relax at home, they enjoy regular exercise, whether it’s a game of fetch or agility training. Their long, silky coats need near-daily brushing to stay tangle-free — use a wide-toothed comb to gently work through knots and remove loose hair.

4. Beagle

• Average height: 13-15 inches
• Average weight: 20 to 30 pounds

Considered to be one of the top medium dog breeds, Beagles are happy, affectionate, and playful. They make great family dogs as they are kind and friendly with children and other pets in the home. These hounds are hunting dogs, so they have a lot of energy and a superior snout. Beagles will need lots of exercise and time to sniff out their surroundings.

A Beagle’s coat is smooth and sheds an average amount. Pet parents can maintain their Beagle’s coat with weekly brushing using a rubber mitt or a hound glove.

5. Airedale Terrier

• Average height: 23 to 24 inches
• Average weight: 50 to 70 pounds

As far as the best medium terrier dog breeds go, the Airedale Terrier is certainly up there. Originating from England, these brave, clever, sometimes stubborn dogs can be a handful, requiring a firm yet gentle owner to take charge. 

On top of their giant personality, the Airedale Terrier’s energetic nature makes for a needy pup, both in physical exercise and mental stimulation. Without a proper outlet, these antsy pups often turn toward destructive behaviors. They love to chew, and they love to dig, so be prepared to offer plenty of fun, engaging activities. 

Airedale Terriers have bristly hair and shed minimally, making them relatively low-maintenance in the grooming department. Simply groom as needed and keep a regular brushing routine to manage any tangles.

6. Australian Cattle Dog (Heeler)

• Average height: 17 to 20 inches
• Average weight: 35 to 50 pounds

For those in the market for a loyal companion, look no further than the Australian Cattle Dog (or Heeler). Though this breed forms strong bonds, it takes commitment to train and work cattle dogs. Heelers are a hard-working, high-energy breed — which is why they often find homes on livestock farms.

Despite their double coat, Australian Cattle Dogs require minimal grooming to keep their fur in good condition. However, these pups blow their coats during the year — so be ready to brush through layers of molting fur or take them in for a professional de-shed.

7. Portuguese Water Dog

• Average height: 17 to 23 inches
• Average weight: 35 to 60 pounds

If you’re looking for a dog who knows how to work hard and play hard, look no further than the Portuguese Water Dog. As their name suggests, this pup loves to swim, which is a perfect way to spend some of their nearly endless energy. They also love energetic playtime with their humans. 

Portuguese Water Dogs have a curly coat that requires regular brushing to keep from matting. On the plus side, these fluffy friends shed minimally and are a better option for people with pet allergies.

8. Bull Terrier

• Average height: 21 to 22 inches
• Average weight: 50 to 70 pounds

Mischievous and charming, the Bull Terrier is a unique breed with a distinct face to match. With a pointed nose and ears, paired with tiny eyes, this medium terrier dog breed is one of a kind. 

Known as a vocal and energetic breed, the Bull Terrier will demand your attention, so training and plenty of exercise are critical to ensure a well-behaved pup. Owning a Bull Terrier is a big commitment — so be ready to take on their big and beautiful personality. 

With a smooth, short coat, grooming a Bull Terrier is simple and low-involvement — just grab a soft bristle brush now and again to help clear dirt and keep their fur shiny.

9. English Setter

• Average height: 23 to 27 inches
• Average weight: 45 to 80 pounds

Known for their silky, wavy fur, English Setters are stunning dogs, making them friendly companions — if not slightly nervous. That said, pet owners can work through anxiety with proper training and socialization from a young age.

Good with children and other dogs, these pups are happy and playful, so get ready for big bursts of energy. English Setters love a rigorous activity, whether it be a long run or a hike. 

Their coat is double-layered and extremely soft, so take a soft bristle brush to their hair at least once a week to maintain the texture.

10. Standard Poodle

• Average height: Over 15 inches
• Average weight: 40 to 70 pounds

With a show-stopping look and great personality, a Poodle might be the perfect pup for you. These fluffy dogs are easy to train and make excellent companions. Despite their fluffy coat, poodles are low-shedding, making them a popular medium hypoallergenic dog breed.

Poodles are naturally alert and can act as watchdogs, so consistent training is key to curbing any unwanted barking. While they shed very little, Poodles require regular grooming to keep their curly coats from matting. Many owners opt for shorter cuts on the body, leaving only the head, chest, feet, and tail fluffy for easier maintenance.

11. Vizsla

• Average height: 21 to 24 inches
• Average weight: 44 to 60 pounds

Looking for an energetic, affectionate companion? The Vizsla might be your perfect match. Known for their close bond with their families, these loyal dogs are often called “Velcro dogs” because they love to stick by your side. With their high energy and athletic nature, Vizslas are ideal for active households that enjoy outdoor adventures like running and hiking.

Vizslas have sleek, short coats that shed moderately and are easy to maintain with weekly brushing. Intelligent and eager to please, they’re also highly trainable, making them fantastic companions for those who can keep up with their active lifestyle.

12. Labrador Retriever

Are labradors medium-sized dogs? Technically, they’re usually classed as medium to large-size dogs. Since this is a borderline case, and since we love labs so much, we’re including them. Just don’t be surprised if your new chocolate lab grows outside the usual limits of the medium-size category.

• Average height: 21 to 24 inches tall
• Average weight: 55 to 80 pounds

Super affectionate, highly active, and overly outgoing, Labrador Retrievers are wonderful companions and family pets. If you welcome home a Lab, get ready for plenty of cuddles. They love a range of activities, from problem-solving puzzles to simple games of fetch. With a rich history as sporting dogs and hunting dogs, Labs need ample and regular exercise to tire them out.

Labs are some of the most versatile dogs because of their ability to adapt and catch onto training. Without proper training, they can sometimes turn into troublemakers who will happily chew up anything in sight. Additionally, these pups are great with other dogs and children, happy to prance around with seemingly endless energy. Because of their short coats, Labs are considered low maintenance in the grooming department. However, they tend to be heavy shedders with a double coat  — but brushing every week can minimize falling hair.

13. Basset Hound

• Average height: Up to 15 inches
• Average weight: 40 to 65 pounds

Easy-going and patient, Basset Hounds make excellent family dogs — great with both children and other pets. With cute wrinkles, low-hanging ears, and a charming personality, these mid-size pups stand out on all fronts. Just be ready for bouts of stubbornness from this French breed, which you can tame with proper training. 

As far as fur maintenance goes, the Basset Hound is relatively low-stress, with short, smooth coats and relatively low shedding. Though no professional maintenance is necessary, regular grooming — like weekly brushings and ear cleanings — is a must to keep your pup happy and healthy.

14. American Staffordshire Terrier

• Average height: 17 to 19 inches
• Average weight: 40 to 70 pounds

The American Staffordshire Terrier stands out for its combination of strength and affection. Renowned for their courage and deep loyalty to their families, AmStaffs are gentle with children despite their muscular build. 

These medium-sized dogs love human interaction and require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. With their short, low-maintenance coat, occasional brushing is enough to keep them looking great. Consistent training and socialization are important for this intelligent and energetic breed to prevent any unwanted behaviors.

15. Brittany

• Average height: 17.5 to 20.5 inches
• Average weight: 30 to 40 pounds

Love the outdoors? So does the Brittany. These athletic and energetic dogs are perfect for active families or individuals who enjoy hiking, running, or agility training. Brittanys are known for their friendly, affectionate nature and do well with children and other pets. 

Their medium-length coat sheds moderately and benefit from regular brushing. Highly intelligent and eager to please, they’re easy to train but need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and avoid boredom.

16. English Bulldog

• Average height: 14 to 15 inches
• Average weight: 40 to 50 pounds

Among the top five most popular dog breeds, English Bulldogs are a fan favorite for a reason. With their wrinkly face and one-of-a-kind personalities, these burly pups are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a medium-sized breed.

With proper training and socialization, English Bulldogs are some of the most family-friendly and low-key breeds. Just beware of their stubborn streak — they tend to put up a fight against any unwanted activities. Regarding coat grooming, English Bulldogs don’t need more than a weekly brush-down. However, Bulldog parents will need to wipe out their deep facial grooves and wrinkles to keep dirt and bacteria from building up.

17. Labradoodle

• Average height: 14 to 15 inches
• Average weight: 40 to 50 pounds

The Labradoodle is a charming mix of the Labrador Retriever and Poodle, known for being friendly, intelligent, and low-shedding. A popular choice for families and allergy sufferers, these playful pups are great with kids and other pets. Technically a designer breed (a mix between two pure-bred dogs), they’re all the healthier for their mixed parentage.

Labradoodles have a curly or wavy coat that requires regular brushing to avoid matting, but they shed minimally. Energetic and social, Labradoodles love outdoor activities like running and swimming, making them perfect companions for active families. Their intelligence and eagerness to please also make them easy to train.

18. Irish Terriers

• Average height: 18 to 20 inches
• Average weight: 25 to 27 pounds

Known for its bold character and fearless loyalty, the Irish Terrier is a spirited medium-sized dog breed. These dogs are protective, making them both excellent family pets and reliable watchdogs. 

Irish Terriers are highly energetic and benefit from daily exercise and mental stimulation. While they can be independent, they respond well to firm and consistent training, making them lively and devoted companions for those up for the challenge. Their wiry red coats shed minimally but require regular grooming to maintain their texture.

19. Standard Schnauzer

• Average height: 17.5 to 19.5 inches
• Average weight: 30 to 50 pounds

The Standard Schnauzer is associated with its intelligence, versatility, and affectionate nature. Their distinctive wiry coat requires regular grooming and brushing to prevent matting, but they shed very little. 

Schnauzers are energetic and love physical activities, thriving in homes where they can participate in outdoor adventures or agility training. With their intelligence and willingness to learn, Standard Schnauzers excel in obedience and enjoy plenty of mental challenges.

20. Whippet

• Average height: 18 to 22 inches
• Average weight: 25 to 40 pounds

Graceful and sleek, the Whippet is a gentle and calm breed perfect for quiet, indoor living. Although built for speed, these dogs are surprisingly relaxed at home. Whippets love a good sprint outdoors, but inside they are quiet and affectionate, making them great apartment companions. 

Friendly and mild-mannered, Whippets do well with children and other pets, and with regular exercise, they remain happy, healthy companions. Their short, smooth coats are low-maintenance, requiring minimal grooming.

21. Goldendoodle

• Average height: 13 to 24 inches
• Average weight: 30-45 pounds

Like the Labradoodle, the Goldendoodle isn’t technically a breed. These designer dogs are the children of Poodles and Golden Retrievers, and they’ve become incredibly popular in the United States and the United Kingdom. We love these dogs for their adorable, almost teddy bear-like looks, sweet and affectionate personalities, and allergy-friendly coats.

While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, Goldendoodles take after their Poodle parents in the coat department. They have curly hair instead of the usual fur, and they are very low-shedding medium-sized dogs. These dogs can range in size, with mini Goldendoodles weighing just 15 to 30 pounds.

Goldendoodles are smart pups that get along famously with children and other pets. They do need a lot of exercise and attention, however. Don’t be surprised if your Goldendoodle puppy chews up any unattended sneakers or sunglasses. Fortunately, they respond well to training.

Medium dog breeds that don’t shed

Low-shedding dogs are a great choice for keeping your space cleaner and your grooming routine simpler. If you’re looking for a dog that won’t leave your house covered in fur, here are some of the top medium dog breeds that don’t shed:

• Portuguese Water Dog
• Lagotto Romagnolo
• Schnauzer
• Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
• Basenjis

Medium hypoallergenic dog breeds

While no dog is entirely hypoallergenic, some shed less, which means less grooming, less mess, and fewer allergens in your home. The following dogs are popular among dog lovers with allergies:

• Goldendoodle
• Barbet
• Spanish Water Dog
• Poodle (Standard)
• Irish Water Spaniel
• Kerry Blue Terrier

Medium fluffy dog breeds

Love the idea of a cuddly, fluffy companion? These medium-sized fluffy dogs are not only adorable but also have plenty of personality:

• Shetland Sheepdog
• Australian Shepherd
• Chow Chow
• Keeshond
• Tibetan Terrier
• Eurasier
• Samoyed

They might require a little more at-home grooming to keep their coats looking great, but they’ll reward you with endless cuddles and companionship.

There’s so much to love about medium dogs

Medium-sized dogs bring so much to the table, making them a favorite for many pet owners. Their size strikes a perfect balance, making them adaptable to different living situations, from apartments to homes with large yards.

As you embark on this rewarding journey with your new companion, it’s important to think about their long-term care. Vet visits, accidents, or illnesses can pop up when you least expect them. To make sure you can always give your dog the best care, consider pet insurance. It’s a simple way to keep both you and your new best friend covered.

---

---