20 Medium Breed Dogs: Finding Your Ideal Companion

If you’re searching for a canine companion that strikes the sweet spot between the tininess of toy breeds and the imposing size of giant dogs, medium breed dogs offer the perfect middle ground. “Medium dogs are versatile companions because they can fulfill the needs of many potential dog owners, including companionship, active outdoor pursuits, therapy work and beyond,” explains Charlotte Reed, a renowned pet care specialist and host of The Pet Buzz radio program. According to Vetcarenews, the medium breed classification typically encompasses dogs weighing between 24 and 59 pounds with shoulder heights ranging from 16 to 22 inches.

Nicole Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer with Rover, points out that “medium dogs are often excellent choices for an active lifestyle, possessing sufficient energy levels for hiking, jogging and outdoor adventures.” Yet these mid-size dogs aren’t exclusively for active owners—several medium breed dogs thrive in quieter home environments, such as bulldogs and whippets, making them adaptable to various living situations.

Sporting & Hunting Breeds: Athletic Excellence

English Setter: Elegant Hunters with Genteel Character

The English setter represents the aristocracy of medium breed dogs in the sporting category. Recognized for their graceful yet robust build and distinctive belton-patterned coat in shades of liver, lemon, and orange, these canines earned the nickname “gentleman of the dog world.” With roots tracing back 400 years to English country estates where they were developed for hunting, English setters display playful temperaments and excellent social compatibility with both humans and other dogs. Their lengthy coats demand consistent brushing maintenance, and they benefit from regular physical activity. Utilizing positive reinforcement techniques proves essential when training these sensitive, devoted animals, as harsh methods can discourage their good-natured disposition. Well-cared-for English setters integrate seamlessly into active family environments.

American Foxhound: Independent Hunters with Driven Spirit

American foxhounds stand apart from their English counterparts through distinct physical attributes—notably longer legs and a slightly arched lower back. These sleek, good-natured hunting medium breed dogs sport short coats requiring minimal maintenance. Prospective owners must recognize that American foxhounds possess strong prey instincts and independent streaks demanding experienced handling. Their breeding heritage for extended hunts means they thrive with at least one to two hours of daily exercise, though they adapt well to various living arrangements with appropriate attention and structure. Weekly brushing maintains their coat condition effectively.

English Springer Spaniel: Versatile Gun Dogs for Modern Families

The English springer spaniel exemplifies the dual-purpose medium breed dog—equally comfortable as a reliable hunting companion or affectionate family member. These energetic, intelligent birds dogs boast muscular builds, double coats, and characteristically long ears paired with kind eyes. Highly responsive to training and people-oriented by nature, springers excel with children and remain eager to please their owners. Their journey from Britain’s upland game bird hunters to K-9 detection specialists in North America (gaining prominence in the 1920s) showcases their remarkable trainability and keen sense of smell. Maintaining their health requires regular grooming and consistent exercise through walks and play sessions.

Brittany: Agile Gundogs with Medieval Heritage

The Brittany represents a beloved medium-sized gundog excelling on both continents through remarkable agility and versatility. Smaller than setters yet more substantial than typical spaniels, these dogs display striking coats in vivid orange and liver patterns requiring minimal grooming effort. Medieval French peasants developed these all-purpose hunting companions in the Brittany region, establishing a breed tradition that persists today. Upon arrival in America during 1931, Brittanys quickly gained favor among hunters appreciating their speed and bird-tracking capabilities. Contemporary Brittanys perform excellently in canine sports like agility and flyball competitions.

Herding Medium Breed Dogs: Intelligence & Purpose

Collie: Iconic Shepherds of Legend and Actuality

Originating from Scotland, collies achieved international fame during the 20th century through beloved media portrayals, particularly the television phenomenon “Lassie.” These medium to large-sized herding dogs present elegant wedge-shaped heads, almond eyes, and gentle expressions that belie their working heritage. The breed exists in two coat varieties—the iconic full-coated “rough” version and the sleek “smooth” variation. Collies make outstanding family pets displaying natural affinity with children, though their coats demand regular grooming attention, particularly regarding shedding management and mat prevention. Their notable intelligence translates into straightforward trainability, making them responsive to owners’ guidance.

Australian Shepherd: Rodeo Stars & Ranch Essentials

The Australian shepherd embodies the lean, rugged ranch dog ethos, commanding respect in rodeo environments worldwide. Despite their nomenclature, these herding medium breed dogs originated from European stock that subsequently migrated to Australia with Basque shepherds before establishing roots in California’s cowboy culture. Recognized for piercing gazes and distinctive coat patterns including the striking merle variation, Aussies demonstrate spry, purposeful movement coupled with innate herding impulses extending to birds, dogs, and even children. Their pronounced intelligence and high energy requirements suit owners seeking training partners for work or competitive dog sports. Maintaining their well-being requires regular grooming, consistent exercise, and meaningful tasks that engage their working instincts.

Australian Cattle Dog: Descendants of Dingo Heritage

Also known as blue heelers or red heelers, the Australian cattle dog represents a small yet sturdy herding medium breed dog with Dingo ancestry. These intelligent canines enter the world with white coats that transform into blue-gray or distinctive red patterns, often featuring unique speckling effects. Their substantial work drive, remarkable agility, and unwavering loyalty make them exceptional livestock herding partners and energetic running companions. A straightforward grooming regimen of regular brushing suffices for their smooth double-layer coats that shed predictably twice yearly. Highly active by nature, these medium breed dogs demand both mental and physical challenges to prevent behavioral issues.

Companion & Terrier Medium Breed Dogs: Character & Charm

Bulldog: From Fearsome Fighter to Beloved Companion

The bulldog’s unmistakable “sourmug” expression instantly captivates admirers despite—or perhaps because of—the breed’s distinctive physical peculiarities. Developed for 13th-century bull-baiting in England, these brave, muscular medium breed dogs transformed into cherished family members over subsequent centuries. Their characteristic features include furrowed brows, pushed-in noses, and distinctive rolling gaits. Contrary to appearances suggesting indolence, bulldogs appreciate brisk walks and require moderate exercise maintaining fitness. Regular grooming—especially meticulous wrinkle and ear cleaning—proves essential for their health. Contemporary bulldogs serve as national symbols of England and popular mascots for athletic teams and the U.S. Marine Corps.

American Staffordshire Terrier: Confident & Family-Oriented

The American Staffordshire terrier, affectionately shortened to AmStaff, demonstrates intelligence, confidence, and genuine friendliness. These stocky, muscular medium breed dogs feature broad heads, well-defined jawlines, and round dark eyes conveying alertness. Their stiff, glossy coats require weekly brushing and occasional bathing. AmStaffs showcase both agility and grace while remaining intensely people-oriented, thriving as integral family members participating in play sessions and canine sports. Originating from British blood sports, contemporary AmStaffs have evolved into mellow, beloved companions enriching American culture and households alike.

Bull Terrier: Playful Devotion Wrapped in Distinctive Appearance

Recognized instantly for their distinctive long, egg-shaped heads and triangular eyes, bull terriers embody playful nature paired with unwavering devotion. Their coats manifest in white or any alternate color featuring brindle striping patterns. These medium breed dogs require weekly brushing plus regular ear and nail maintenance. Bull terriers flourish with early socialization, firm yet affectionate training, abundant exercise, and quality time with loved ones. Developed from bulldogs and terriers for sporting purposes, their history traces to 13th-century bull-baiting traditions. By the mid-1800s, bull terriers achieved fashionable companion status, refined for appearance and temperament. They quickly became American favorites, represented by famous personalities like Target’s Bullseye mascot and General George Patton’s beloved Willy.

Airedale Terrier: Royalty Among Terrier Medium Breed Dogs

Dubbed “The King of Terriers” for its substantial size, strength, and spirited nature, the Airedale terrier reigns as the largest in its terrier family. Despite their regal bearing, Airedales prove remarkably docile and patient with children. These medium breed dogs display short, wiry coats featuring tan and black markings with alert, intelligent expressions accented by sporty beards and mustaches—distinctive features among terrier variants. Airedales require minimal grooming yet benefit from daily play sessions burning through their considerable energy reserves.

German Pinscher: Ancient Breed with Modern Appeal

Among Germany’s oldest dog breeds and a prototype for other pinscher varieties, the German pinscher represents sleek intelligence paired with rich historical significance. Standing approximately knee-high to humans, these impressive medium breed dogs showcase shiny coats displaying red, black, or blue with red accents. Despite their elegant presentation, German pinschers remain refreshingly no-fuss regarding grooming—weekly brushing and occasional baths maintain their appearance effectively. They excel in canine sports while making wonderful, reliable companions.

Whippet: Speed & Gentleness Combined

The whippet epitomizes lightning-quick athleticism matched with a sweet, gentle disposition. Often described as a smaller greyhound, this medium breed dog mirrors greyhound elegance within a more compact package. Despite possessing intense pursuit instincts, whippets demonstrate friendliness, dignity, and gentle companionship. Their short, smooth coats require minimal maintenance, making them suitable for apartment living. Historically celebrated for dog racing prowess and lure coursing excellence, whippets retain their reputation as swift, graceful performers.

Scent Hounds & Distinctive Breeds: Specialized Talents

Bluetick Coonhound: Sweet Temperament Meets Hunting Excellence

The bluetick coonhound blends sleek, lovable qualities with relentless hunting drive—representing ideal balance in a medium breed dog. Recognized by their distinctive mottled black-and-blue coats, these well-muscled canines produce unique baying and bawling vocalizations. Affectionate and devoted, blueticks require abundant exercise and playtime, ideally within securely fenced yards. Regular grooming including weekly brushing and periodic baths maintains their health and appearance. Tracing heritage back to French staghounds gifted to George Washington, bluetick coonhounds remain favorites among Southern coon hunters and hold prominent cultural significance. The breed has served as the University of Tennessee’s official mascot since 1953.

Basset Hound: Endearing Scent Specialists

The basset hound captures hearts through distinctive appearance and gentle demeanor. These short, powerfully-built medium breed dogs possess surprising stamina despite their squat frames. Recognizable by domed heads, notably long ears, and characteristic mournful expressions, basset hounds excel in scent detection work. Though displaying occasional stubborn streaks, these dogs prove loyal and entertaining household members. Regular grooming including brushing and nail trimming ensures health and appearance maintenance. While not overly demanding regarding activity, basset hounds benefit from daily walks and play sessions. Historically developed in France and Belgium as short scenting hounds for hunting purposes, their independent nature requires patient, consistent training approaches.

Jindo: Korea’s Natural Treasure

Originating from Jindo Island off South Korea’s coast, the Jindo represents a loyal, intelligent medium breed dog prized as independent hunter, vigilant guardian, and devoted companion. Featuring erect ears and distinctive tails, Jindos showcase agility, strength, alertness, and inherent dignity. Recognized for exceptional cleanliness, this breed displays strong hunting instincts alongside bravery and faithfulness toward their chosen person. While possibly reserved around other animals—particularly other males—Jindos form deep, exclusive attachments to their owners. They thrive in active households requiring physical and mental stimulation with meaningful tasks. Korea officially designated Jindos as cultural assets in 1962, earning the designation Korea Natural Treasure #53.

Choosing Your Medium Breed Dog

The diversity within medium breed dogs ensures viable options for virtually every lifestyle and preference. Whether seeking active adventure partners, peaceful household companions, or specialized working dogs, these mid-size canines deliver exceptional value. Consider your living situation, exercise capacity, grooming commitment, and desired temperament when selecting from this rich variety of medium breed dogs. The perfect companion awaits within this remarkable category.