Finding Your Ideal Medium Size Dogs: A Guide to 20 Excellent Breeds

Looking for the perfect canine companion? If smaller breeds seem too delicate and larger dogs feel overwhelming, medium size dogs offer the ideal balance for most households. As Charlotte Reed, a pet care and lifestyle expert and host of The Pet Buzz, notes: “Medium size dogs are great because they can fulfill the needs of many potential dog owners, including companionship, running/jogging, therapy dog work and more.” These versatile companions, typically weighing between 24 and 59 pounds with shoulder heights of 16 to 22 inches, represent a sweet spot in the dog world.

According to Nicole Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert with Rover, “Medium dogs are often great for an active lifestyle, with enough energy (for most breeds) to keep up on hikes and adventures.” However, medium size dogs aren’t exclusively for active owners. Some breeds in this category, like the bulldog and whippet, are perfectly suited for more relaxed living situations. Below, discover 20 outstanding medium size dogs that might be your perfect match.

Athletic Companions: High-Energy Medium Size Dogs for Active Owners

For owners who love outdoor adventures and sports, several medium size dogs excel as training partners and running buddies.

English Setter stands out as an elegant yet sturdy sporting dog with a distinctive belton-patterned coat in liver, lemon, and orange hues. Often called “the gentleman of the dog world,” this breed boasts a 400-year history as a hunting companion on English country estates. English setters are playful, sociable with other dogs and people, and thrive with positive reinforcement training. They require regular brushing and consistent exercise, making them ideal for families willing to invest time in their care.

American Foxhound represents sleek athleticism with a short, manageable coat. These good-natured hunters possess a strong prey drive and independent streak, requiring at least one to two hours of daily exercise. Originally bred for extended hunts, they adapt well to various living situations when given proper training and attention. Weekly brushing maintains their coat, and their endurance makes them excellent companions for long-distance runners and hikers.

Vizsla captivates with its distinctive golden-rust coat and lean, athletic frame. These Hungarian treasures form incredibly tight bonds with their owners and thrive on human connection. As active hunting dogs, vizslas need both physical and mental stimulation. Despite their athletic demands, grooming remains straightforward with occasional brushing and baths. Their versatility and eagerness to excel make them beloved among American enthusiasts.

English Springer Spaniel combines energy with intelligence and trainability. These tough yet lovable birds dogs excel as both reliable hunting companions and well-mannered family pets. With muscular builds, double coats, and kind eyes, springers are highly trainable people-pleasers that excel with children. Their history traces back to Britain’s land spaniels, evolving into valued K-9 detection dogs by the 20th century. They require regular grooming and substantial exercise through walks and play sessions.

Brittany serves as a beloved gundog known for its agility and versatility. Smaller than setters but leggier than spaniels, they display beautiful orange and liver coat patterns requiring minimal grooming. Originating from the Brittany region of France, these energetic dogs were developed by medieval peasants for their all-purpose hunting skills. Brought to America in 1931, they now excel in everything from hunting to dog sports like agility and flyball.

Australian Shepherd showcases the lean, rugged character of a ranch dog and rodeo favorite. Despite its Australian name, this breed actually originated from Europe’s finest herders before thriving in California’s cowboy culture. Known for piercing gazes and distinctive merle coat patterns, Aussies possess an innate herding impulse that extends to birds, dogs, and even children. Their intelligence and high energy require owners seeking a high-energy training partner. Regular grooming, exercise, and a meaningful job keep them happy and healthy.

Australian Cattle Dog (also called blue or red heeler) represents a small yet stocky herding dog from Australia. Related to the dingo, these intelligent canines are born with white coats that transform into blue-gray or red with distinctive speckling. Known for enormous work drive, agility, and loyalty, they excel at herding livestock and make excellent running partners. Highly active, they need mental and physical challenges to thrive.

Gentle Family Pets: Friendly Medium Size Dogs Perfect for Households

Some medium size dogs prioritize companionship and gentle temperaments, making them wonderful family members.

Collie gained fame in the 20th century through beloved cultural references like the television show “Lassie.” Originally from Scotland, these medium to large agile herders display elegant wedge-shaped heads, almond eyes, and gentle expressions. Collies come in either the iconic full-coated “rough” coat or the sleek “smooth” version. They make excellent family pets that are good with children, though owners must commit to regular grooming with careful attention to shedding and matting. Their intelligence makes training relatively easy.

Standard Poodle functions as an aristocrat in the dog world, contrary to stereotypes suggesting they’re merely show dogs. Poodles are eager, athletic performers excelling in various activities. Famous for decorative haircuts, they actually originated as duck hunters in Germany despite being France’s national dog. Their non-shedding coats make them suitable for allergy sufferers. They require regular brushing to prevent matting and have served as circus performers, truffle hunters, and beloved family companions.

Bulldog wins hearts with its unmistakable “sourmug” face and thick-set, muscular build. This brave breed displays a furrowed brow, pushed-in nose, and unique rolling gait. Despite appearing laid-back, bulldogs enjoy brisk walks and need moderate exercise. Originally bred for bull baiting in 13th-century England, they’ve transformed into cherished companions and national symbols of England. Regular grooming, especially wrinkle and ear cleaning, maintains their health. They now serve as popular mascots for sports teams and the U.S. Marine Corps.

American Staffordshire Terrier (affectionately called AmStaff) combines intelligence, confidence, and friendliness in a stocky, muscular package. With broad heads, well-defined jaws, and round dark eyes, they present an imposing yet approachable appearance. Their stiff, glossy coats require only weekly brushing and occasional baths. AmStaffs are agile, graceful, and people-oriented, thriving as family members and canine sports competitors. Originating from blood sports in Britain, today’s AmStaff represents a mellow, beloved companion with rich American cultural significance.

Chow Chow traces its nobility back to China’s Han Dynasty, serving as companions, guards, and hunters. Distinguished by their muscular build, lion’s-mane ruff, and unique blue-black tongue, chows are clean and easy to house train. They remain loyal companions requiring regular grooming including brushing and monthly baths. Chows need only moderate exercise, enjoying daily walks and playtime with their people.

Independent Hunters: Working Breeds in the Medium Size Dogs Category

Several medium size dogs retain their strong hunting heritage and independent spirits, requiring experienced owners who understand their drive.

Bluetick Coonhound balances sweet temperament at home with relentless pursuit when hunting. These sleek, well-muscled dogs are recognized for their mottled black-and-blue coats and distinct baying. Affectionate and devoted, they require plenty of exercise and playtime, ideally in securely fenced yards. They need regular grooming including weekly brushing and occasional baths. With roots tracing back to French staghounds given to George Washington, bluetick coonhounds remain favorites among coon hunters and maintain their place in Southern culture. Since 1953, they’ve served as the University of Tennessee’s mascot.

Bull Terrier is instantly recognizable for its distinctive long, egg-shaped head and triangular eyes. This playful, devoted breed comes in white or any other color with brindle striping. They require weekly brushing and regular ear and nail care. Bull terriers thrive on early socialization, firm but loving training, and plenty of exercise. Developed from bulldogs and terriers for sport, their history traces to 13th-century bull-baiting. By the mid-1800s, they became fashionable refined companions, with famous bullies including Bullseye (the Target mascot) and General George Patton’s dog, Willy.

Airedale Terrier, dubbed “The King of Terriers” for its size, strength, and spirit, holds the distinction of being the largest terrier breed. Despite their regal presence, Airedales are docile and patient with children. They display short, wiry coats in tan and black markings, with an alert, intelligent expression enhanced by a sporty beard and mustache. Airedales require minimal grooming but need daily play sessions to burn off high energy levels.

German Pinscher stands as one of Germany’s oldest breeds and a prototype for other pinscher varieties. These sleek, intelligent dogs stand about knee-high to adults, displaying shiny coats in red, black, or blue with red accents. Despite their elegant appearance, German pinschers are no-frills and require minimal grooming. Weekly brushing and occasional baths keep them looking sharp. They excel in canine sports and make wonderful companions.

Low-Maintenance Medium Size Dogs: Perfect for Busy Owners

Not all medium size dogs demand extensive grooming or exercise. Some breeds suit apartment living and lower-activity lifestyles.

Whippet presents as a lightning-quick, sleek dog with a sweet face, mirroring greyhound elegance in a smaller package. Despite intense pursuit instincts, whippets are friendly, dignified, and gentle companions. Their short, smooth coats make them low-maintenance and apartment-suitable. Known for their speed, whippets have a rich history in dog racing and lure coursing.

Dalmatian showcases one of the animal kingdom’s most famous coats while maintaining a graceful frame and powerful build suited for endurance. Originally bred to guard horses and coaches, dalmatians retain protective instincts and make loyal house dogs. Grooming requires only occasional baths and weekly brushing. They thrive on regular exercise through ball chasing, jogging, or hiking activities.

Basset Hound charms with its distinctive appearance and gentle demeanor. This short, squat hound is surprisingly strong and possesses endurance that belies its laid-back appearance. Recognized for a domed head, long ears, and mournful eyes, basset hounds excel at scenting. Despite a stubborn streak, they’re loyal and entertaining at home. They require regular grooming including brushing and nail trimming. Originally bred in France and Belgium for hunting, they need daily walks and play despite being less active than other medium size dogs.

Unique Characteristics: Distinctive Medium Size Dogs Worth Knowing

Some medium size dogs stand out for their unusual appearances, cultural significance, or specialized roles.

Jindo, originally from Jindo Island off South Korea, exemplifies loyalty and intelligence. Prized for roles as independent hunters, vigilant guardians, and devoted companions, jindos showcase erect ears and distinctive tails. They display agility, strength, alertness, and dignity while maintaining exceptional cleanliness. Known for strong hunting instincts, bravery, and faithfulness, jindos form deep attachments to their owners. Designated a Korean cultural asset in 1962 and called Korea Natural Treasure #53, they thrive in active households needing jobs for their dogs.

Australian Cattle Dog also deserves mention here for its unique appearance—born with white coats that transform into blue-gray or red with distinctive speckling. These intelligent herders, related to the dingo, excel at moving livestock and serve as excellent running partners for active owners.

Choosing Your Perfect Medium Size Dog

Whether you seek an active companion for outdoor adventures, a gentle family pet, an independent hunter, a low-maintenance apartment mate, or a unique breed with special characteristics, medium size dogs offer remarkable variety. The key to success involves matching the breed’s natural temperament and exercise requirements to your lifestyle. Consider whether you prefer an active training partner or a more relaxed homebody, whether grooming demands fit your schedule, and whether you have space for a dog that needs room to move. With proper care, training, and attention, any of these 20 outstanding medium size dogs can become a cherished family member for years to come.