Your Guide to Middle Sized Dogs: 20 Breeds That Fit Just Right

When you’re shopping for the perfect canine companion, size matters—but not always in the way you’d think. If tiny breeds feel too delicate and giant dogs seem overwhelming, middle sized dogs might be your answer. These versatile companions offer an ideal balance, combining the playfulness of smaller breeds with the substance and presence of larger ones.

Why Choose Middle Sized Dogs?

The appeal of middle sized dogs extends far beyond aesthetics. According to pet care expert Charlotte Reed, host of The Pet Buzz radio show, “Medium dogs are exceptional because they can fulfill the needs of many potential dog owners, including companionship, running and jogging, therapy dog work and more.”

What exactly defines middle sized dogs? Vetcarenews sets the standard at dogs weighing between 24 and 59 pounds with a shoulder height of 16 to 22 inches. This sweet spot creates animals that are substantial enough to be true hiking buddies yet manageable enough for most living situations.

Certified dog trainer Nicole Ellis notes that “medium dogs are often great for an active lifestyle, with enough energy for most breeds to keep up on adventures.” But middle sized dogs aren’t just for athletes. Some, like bulldogs and whippets, prefer quieter environments and make excellent apartment dwellers.

Active Companions: High-Energy Middle Sized Dogs

For those seeking adventure partners, several middle sized dogs excel at outdoor pursuits. These breeds thrive on physical activity and mental stimulation, making them perfect for owners with active lifestyles.

The English Setter epitomizes elegance and athleticism. With their distinctive belton-patterned coats in liver, lemon, and orange hues, these sporting dogs have earned the nickname “gentleman of the dog world.” Originally developed over 400 years ago for hunting on English estates, they remain playful and social. Regular brushing and consistent exercise keep them content, though they respond best to positive reinforcement training.

American Foxhounds embody the hunter’s ideal. These sleek dogs possess an independent nature and strong prey drive that demands experienced ownership. They need at least an hour or two of daily exercise, though they adapt well to various homes with proper care. Weekly brushing maintains their short, manageable coats.

The English Springer Spaniel represents versatility incarnate. Beloved by both sport hunters and families, these energetic dogs excel as reliable hunting companions and well-mannered household members. Their double coats and long ears require regular grooming, but their trainability makes them invaluable for K-9 detection work. The breed gained prominence in North America during the 1920s and hasn’t looked back.

Brittanys bring French heritage to your home. Developed in the Brittany region of France by medieval peasants for their all-purpose hunting skills, these dogs arrived in America in 1931. Their vivid orange and liver coats require minimal grooming, yet their energy and bird-tracking abilities make them standouts in both hunting and competitive dog sports like agility and flyball.

Vizslas showcase Hungarian refinement. With sleek golden-rust coats and lean athletic frames, these dogs form tight bonds with their owners and thrive on human connection. Despite their calm appearance, they’re serious athletes requiring both physical and mental exercise. Their straightforward grooming needs—occasional brushing and baths—make them practical companions.

The Australian Shepherd represents American cowboy culture. Despite its name, this herding dog originated with European shepherds working in Australia before settling in California’s ranching country. Known for their piercing gaze and distinctive merle coat patterns, Aussies possess an innate herding instinct that extends to birds, dogs, and children. Their high energy demands owners prepared for serious training partnerships.

Bull Terriers pack personality into their distinctive egg-shaped heads. Instantly recognizable with their triangular eyes and muscular builds, these playful dogs display unwavering devotion. Developed from bulldogs and terriers for sport, they transformed from fighting dogs into fashionable companions by the mid-1800s. Famous examples like Bullseye (the Target mascot) and General George Patton’s military companion Willy showcase their appeal. Weekly brushing and quality time with loved ones keep them thriving.

Sporting Heritage: Hunting and Working Middle Sized Dogs

Several middle sized dogs maintain strong connections to their hunting origins, combining working drive with loyal companionship.

The American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff) exemplifies intelligence and confidence wrapped in a stocky, muscular frame. Despite their intimidating appearance, they’re people-oriented dogs thriving on family participation and canine sports. Weekly brushing keeps their glossy coats healthy. While their history traces back to blood sports in Britain, today’s AmStaff represents a mellow, beloved cultural icon in American life.

Bluetick Coonhounds blend sweetness with relentless hunting instinct. Recognized by their mottled black-and-blue coats and muscular frames, these affectionate dogs produce distinctive baying and bawling calls. They demand plenty of exercise and secure fencing, plus regular grooming including weekly brushing. Their lineage traces to French staghounds gifted to George Washington, and they’ve remained Southern culture favorites. The breed serves as the University of Tennessee’s mascot since 1953.

Airedale Terriers claim the title “King of Terriers” through size, strength, and spirit—making them the largest terrier breed. Despite their regal presence, they’re docile and patient with children. Their short, wiry coats display tan and black markings, with a distinctive sporting beard and mustache. Minimal grooming combined with daily play sessions satisfies their high energy, making them uniquely adaptable among terriers.

The German Pinscher stands as one of Germany’s oldest breeds and a prototype for other pinscher varieties. Standing knee-high to adults, these intelligent dogs sport shiny coats in red, black, or blue with red accents. Despite their elegant appearance, they’re no-frills companions needing only weekly brushing and occasional baths. They excel in canine sports and make wonderful family members.

Family Favorites: Balanced Middle Sized Dogs

Some middle sized dogs strike the perfect balance between activity and comfort, making them ideal for diverse household situations.

Collies gained international fame through “Lassie,” though these Scottish natives deserve recognition for their own merits. Available in rough or smooth coat varieties, collies are medium to large agile herders with elegant wedge-shaped heads. Excellent with children and families, they’re highly trainable thanks to their intelligence. Regular grooming addresses their shedding and matting concerns, rewarding owners with devoted companions.

Standard Poodles defy stereotypes as eager, athletic performers. Though famous for decorative haircuts, they’re descended from German duck hunters and have excelled as circus performers, truffle hunters, and family companions. Their non-shedding coats make them hypoallergenic for allergy sufferers, though regular brushing prevents matting. As France’s national dog, they demonstrate remarkable versatility.

Chow Chows carry nobility from China’s Han Dynasty. Known for their muscular builds, distinctive lion’s mane ruff, and blue-black tongue, these clean, easy-to-train dogs are fiercely loyal. While they only need moderate exercise and daily walks, their double coats require regular grooming including monthly baths. Their independence and dignified bearing make them cherished companions.

Bulldogs win hearts instantly with their distinctive “sourmug” face and rolling gait. Originally bred for bull baiting in 13th-century England, they’ve transformed into beloved companions. Now representing England nationally and serving as mascots for sports teams and the U.S. Marine Corps, bulldogs enjoy brisk walks and moderate exercise. Regular wrinkle and ear cleaning maintains their health. Their sturdy, muscular build masks a surprisingly gentle nature.

Dalmatians showcase perhaps the animal kingdom’s most famous coat pattern. Originally bred to guard horses and coaches, they maintain a protective instinct while making loyal house dogs. Their graceful frames hide powerful builds suited for endurance. Weekly brushing and occasional baths maintain their striking appearance, while regular exercise through jogging, hiking, or ball chasing keeps them healthy.

Independent Spirits: Reserved Middle Sized Dogs

Some middle sized dogs prefer selective companionship and thrive with owners who respect their independent nature.

Basset Hounds win hearts with their distinctive appearance and gentle demeanor. Though short and squat, they’re surprisingly strong with impressive stamina. Recognized by their domed heads, long ears, and mournful eyes, they excel at scenting work. Despite stubborn streaks, these French and Belgian creations remain loyal and entertaining. Daily walks and play sessions satisfy their needs, while regular brushing and nail trimming maintain their appearance. Their independence requires patient, consistent training.

Jindos represent Korean pride as loyal, intelligent hunters and devoted companions. Originally from Jindo Island off South Korea’s coast, these dogs display agility, strength, and dignity alongside erect ears and distinctive tails. Known for cleanliness and bravery, they form deep attachments to their owners while remaining reserved around other animals. Designated a Korean cultural asset in 1962 and called “Korea Natural Treasure #53,” they thrive in active households needing physical and mental stimulation.

Australian Cattle Dogs (blue or red heelers) prove that size doesn’t limit capability. Related to dingoes, these small yet stocky herding dogs are born white before transforming to blue-gray or red with distinctive speckling. Their huge work drive, agility, and loyalty make them excellent livestock herders and running partners. Highly active and intelligent, they require mental and physical challenges alongside their smooth, double-layer coats that shed twice yearly.

Whippets represent lightning-quick elegance. Mirroring greyhounds in sleek sophistication but in a more manageable package, they’re surprisingly gentle despite their intense pursuit instincts. Their short, smooth coats make them low-maintenance and apartment-suitable. With a rich history in dog racing and lure coursing, they combine speed with surprisingly dignified, friendly dispositions.

Finding Your Perfect Match Among Middle Sized Dogs

Whether you seek an active running partner, a calm household member, or a working companion, middle sized dogs offer remarkable diversity. The twenty breeds detailed here represent just a fraction of available options, each bringing unique characteristics to family life.

Your ideal middle sized dog awaits—you simply need to consider your lifestyle, living situation, and the specific qualities you value most in a canine companion. From the athletic English Setter to the dignified Chow Chow, from the fierce Airedale to the gentle Basset Hound, middle sized dogs prove that sometimes the middle ground offers the absolute best of everything.