If you're looking for medium dog breeds, you've come to the right place. Whether you're in an apartment and can't get a big dog or don't want a dog small enough to fit in your pocketbook, there are tons of medium-sized dog breeds that would be the perfect fit for your family.
Medium-sized dogs are usually between 20 and 60 pounds and eight and 30 inches tall. Again, they aren't too big, but aren't too small - they're *just right* as Goldilocks would say. Medium breeds include working dogs and hunting dogs of various temperaments and energy levels, so keep that in mind when considering a medium dog breed. Every dog breed is different, and every dog within that breed has its own personality and backstory.
As always, do try and adopt one of these breeds (or a mixed breed) from your local rescue if possible.
PetsRadar's guide to medium dog breeds
1. Border Collie
The Border Collie is a working and herding dog breed that can be anywhere from 27 to 42 pounds and 18 to 22 inches tall. They are incredibly intelligent, acrobatic, and athletic - which makes sense as they were bred in Scotland to herd sheep. Border Collies are very people-oriented and make great family pets. They also excel at performance activities like agility events, obedience training, flyball, and more. They are highly trainable and make for some impressive pets.
2. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are herding dogs initially bred in the US (confusing, I know). They can be between 18 to 23 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 35 to 70 pounds. Australian Shepherds were the cowboys' favorite herding dog, but they are easygoing pups that make for great family pets. They get along with other animals and children, and while active can also be down for a good cuddle. Australian Shepherds are very intelligent dogs, and are happiest when they have a job to do, so make sure they get lots of structured playtime so they don't get bored too easily.
3. English Bulldog
English Bulldogs are short but stocky, at around 15 inches tall and 40-50 pounds. They are kind and friendly dogs that are often quite docile. They need moderate exercise along with a careful diet, as English Bulldogs can very easily become overweight and develop health problems. Their short snouts can mean that they have breathing issues, so keep that in mind if considering the breed. English Bulldogs love to cuddle and play.
4. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. They can be around 21 to 24 inches tall and weight between 55 and 80 pounds, so some of them can be a bit closer to a larger dog breed size. Labrador Retrievers are a family favorite dog because of their incredible friendliness, playfulness, and up-for-anything attitude. They are incredibly loyal and respond well to training, and need a good bit of exercise to stay mentally and physically fit.
5. Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies were bred as sled dogs and are used to working in packs, so most of them get along well with other dogs. Siberian Huskies can be anywhere from 20 to 23 inches tall and weigh between 35 and 60 pounds. These working dogs need a lot of exercise to be happy, as they were bred to be constantly on the move and helping out their humans. They won't do well in incredibly hot climates or in small spaces, but will thrive with families that love to be outdoors in cooler weather, camping and hiking.
6. American Pit Bull Terrier
American Pit Bull Terriers can be anywhere from 17 to 21 inches tall and 30 to 60 pounds. Known as "nanny dogs" because they are so gentle around children, this breed gets a bad rap that deserves to be challenged - there are so many in shelters around the world that need a loving home. Pit Bulls make great family pets that love to play and cuddle in equal amounts. They are incredibly agile and can be trained to do agility training and other types of interesting activities. This breed isn't technically recognized by the AKC, but is recognized by the United Kennel Club and American Dog Breeders Association.
7. Dalmatian
The iconic Dalmatian can be anywhere from 22 to 24 inches tall and weigh between 35 and 71 pounds. While they're famous for their role in Disney's 101 Dalmatians, the breeds were bred to be coaching dogs that ran alongside horse-drawn carriages to scare off highwaymen. They're an active breed who would be a great fit for owners that love to cycle and jog, and are good family dogs for families with older children. If trained right and socialized early, Dalmatians make for friendly, kind, and easygoing pets.
8. Poodle
As far as medium dog breeds go, Poodles can be around 15 inches tall and weigh between 40 and 70 pounds. These are the standard poodles, by the way, not the miniature or toy breeds. Poodles were originally bred in Germany and are legendary for their fancy hairdos, but are so much more than their looks. Poodles are smart, active, and loyal to their owners. They are fairly high energy, and should be socialized at a young age so they can be friendly with other dogs and other people
9. Boxer
Boxers can sometimes be more large than medium, but on average are between 21 to 25 inches tall and 65-80 pounds. Boxers are loyal, affectionate, and playful, and can sometimes be known for being quite silly. Their wrinkled foreheads and big eyes make for an adorable look, and their short coats are especially striking. They are patient and protective and are great dogs for children, but should be exposed to other people and kids from puppyhood to ensure their guard dog nature doesn't kick in with strangers.
10. English Springer Spaniel
English Springer Spaniels are beautiful long-haired dogs that can be around 19 or 20 inches tall and weigh between 40 and 50 pounds. English Springer Spaniels are bird dogs, that were bred to help hunters flush out game and retrieve game after it has been shot. They are smart, energetic, and are easily trained, with a double coat that will need some grooming. They love the company of people and enjoy long walks, fetch, and going for a swim. They are great with kids and other pets, as well.
