Medium sized dog breeds are a popular choice for families because they offer the perfect balance between size, energy, and adaptability. They are easier to manage than larger dogs, yet sturdier and more playful than tiny toy breeds. For many pet parents, medium sized dogs fit naturally into family life, whether the household includes children, other pets, or an active lifestyle.
From calm, laid-back companions to intelligent and energetic breeds that love outdoor adventures, medium dog breeds come in a wide range of personalities. When matched with the right lifestyle, these dogs often become loyal companions and excellent family dogs for years to come.
Why Medium Sized Dogs Are Ideal for Families
Medium sized dogs are often considered the ideal choice for families because they are versatile and well suited to many living situations. Compared with a large breed dog, medium dogs are easier to handle, transport, and house. At the same time, they are stronger and more durable than very small dogs, which makes them better suited for homes with kids.
Many medium sized dog breeds are known for their friendly personality, gentle temperament, and ability to get along with children, other dogs, and even other animals. They tend to adapt well to family routines, enjoy playtime, and still appreciate quiet time at home. For first time dog owners, medium sized breeds are often a safer and more manageable option.
How We Chose These Medium Sized Dog Breeds
Not all medium sized dog breeds are automatically great family dogs. To create this list, we used a Family Fit Score based on real-world ownership trends, veterinary guidance, and breed standards. We evaluated each breed using five key factors:
1. Temperament with children: Dogs that tolerate handling, noise, and active play scored higher. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stresses that calm, predictable dogs reduce the risk of dog-related injuries in homes with kids.
2. Trainability and intelligence: Highly intelligent and eager to please breeds, such as Australian shepherds and standard poodles, are easier for first time dog owners to manage.
3. Energy levels and exercise needs: Energetic dogs like border collies and australian cattle dogs require daily exercise and mental stimulation. Without it, behavior problems are more likely.
4. Grooming and shedding: Silky coats and wavy coats may require regular brushing or professional grooming. Short coat breeds are often easier for busy families.
5. Health considerations: We considered common issues such as hip dysplasia and joint issues, especially in active medium breeds. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends choosing breeds whose health needs match your lifestyle
This approach helps pet parents choose medium dogs that truly fit their family—not just dogs that look good on paper.
The 20 Best Medium Sized Dog Breeds for Families
Medium sized dogs come in many personalities, coats, and energy levels. Below is an overview of why these breeds are considered excellent family dogs, not just popular dogs.
1. Beagle: Beagles are a popular medium sized breed, standing about 13–15 inches tall and weighing 20–30 pounds. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they have a friendly, curious nature and do very well with children. Beagles are social dogs that enjoy being around people and other pets. Their energy level is moderate, and they need daily exercise to stay healthy. With a lifespan of 10–15 years, they are loyal, fun-loving companions for active families willing to provide regular walks and mental stimulation.
2. Basset Hound: The basset hound is a calm, gentle medium sized dog known for its long floppy ears and short coat. They usually weigh 40–65 pounds and stand under 15 inches tall. Bred for scent tracking, bassets have a relaxed personality and lower energy levels than many other medium dogs. They are patient with children, making them excellent family dogs, especially for quieter homes. Regular walks and weight control are important to protect their joints and prevent obesity.
3. Cocker Spaniel: Cocker spaniels, including the English cocker spaniel, are affectionate medium dog breeds weighing 20–30 pounds and standing around 14–15 inches tall. Known for their silky coats and gentle temperament, they are eager to please and bond closely with pet parents. These dogs are playful without being overwhelming and do well with kids and other animals. They require regular grooming and daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.
4. English Springer Spaniel: This sporting dog is friendly, loyal, and full of energy. English springer spaniels typically weigh 40–50 pounds and were originally bred to assist hunters. They are great family dogs for active households, as they enjoy outdoor activities and regular exercise. Their lifespan is around 12–14 years. With proper training and mental stimulation, they grow into incredibly loving and reliable companions.
5. Australian Shepherd: Australian shepherds are highly intelligent, energetic dogs weighing 40–65 pounds. Despite their name, they were developed in the US as working dogs. Aussies are quick learners and eager to please, making them great companions for active families. They thrive on physical exercise and mental stimulation and do best with experienced or committed pet owners. Their loyalty often earns them the nickname “velcro dogs.”
6. Border Collie: Border collies are among the most intelligent dog breeds in the world. They usually weigh 30–45 pounds and are known for their focus and drive. Originally bred for herding, they require daily exercise and mental challenges. While not ideal for very busy households, they are excellent family dogs for active families who enjoy training, hiking, or sports.
7. Staffordshire Bull Terrier: Staffordshire bull terriers are muscular, medium sized dogs weighing 24–38 pounds. Despite their strong build, they are affectionate, people-focused, and known for being gentle with children. With proper training and socialization, they are loyal and loving family dogs. They have a short coat that is easy to maintain and need regular exercise to manage their energy.
8. Bull Terrier: Bull terriers are playful, strong, and full of charming personality. They typically weigh 50–70 pounds and have a distinctive egg-shaped head. Originally bred for work, they are now known as loyal companions. They do best with consistent training and benefit from early socialization. Their fun-loving nature makes them a good fit for families who enjoy interactive play.
9. Standard Schnauzer: Standard schnauzers weigh 30–50 pounds and are known for their intelligence and alert nature. They are protective without being aggressive and often form strong bonds with their families. Schnauzers need regular grooming and enjoy training sessions, making them a solid choice for first time dog owners who want an engaged, medium sized breed.
10. Airedale Terrier: The airedale terrier is the largest of the terrier breeds, weighing 40–65 pounds. They are confident, smart, and adaptable. Originally bred for hunting and guarding, airedales are loyal family protectors. They require regular grooming and enjoy both physical and mental stimulation.
11. Australian Cattle Dog (Blue or Red Heeler): Australian cattle dogs are highly active and incredibly smart medium dogs, weighing 35–50 pounds. Originally bred for herding cattle, they have high exercise needs and thrive in active households. With proper training, they become deeply loyal and protective family companions. They are best suited for experienced pet owners.
12. Portuguese Water Dog: This medium sized breed weighs 35–60 pounds and has a wavy or curly coat. Portuguese water dogs are energetic, friendly, and love being part of family activities. They gained popularity as family pets due to their intelligence and trainability. Regular grooming and daily exercise are essential.
13. Whippet: Whippets are sleek, gentle dogs weighing 25–40 pounds. Though fast runners outdoors, they are calm and relaxed indoors. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, and their quiet nature makes them excellent family dogs, especially for homes looking for a calmer medium sized breed.
14. Keeshond: Keeshonds weigh 35–45 pounds and are known for their plush coats and friendly expression. They are affectionate, social dogs that thrive in family environments. While they need regular brushing to prevent matting, their moderate energy levels and loving nature make them great companions.
15. Vizsla: Vizslas are athletic, medium sized dogs weighing 45–65 pounds. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they are affectionate and deeply bonded to their families. They require daily exercise and mental stimulation and are best suited for active households that enjoy outdoor activities.
16. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: This cheerful terrier weighs 30–40 pounds and is known for its soft, wavy coat. Wheatens are friendly, adaptable, and good with children. They require regular grooming and training but reward families with loyalty and playful energy.
17. American Eskimo Dog (Miniature): Miniature American Eskimo dogs weigh 25–35 pounds and are alert, intelligent, and people-oriented. They are eager to please and respond well to training. Their fluffy coat requires regular brushing, but their friendly temperament makes them excellent family dogs.
18. Chow Chow: Chow chows are medium sized dogs weighing 45–70 pounds with a thick coat and independent personality. They are calm and loyal but do best with experienced pet parents. Early training and socialization are essential for them to thrive in family settings.
19. Chinese Shar-Pei: Shar-Peis are known for their wrinkled skin and calm demeanor. Weighing 45–60 pounds, they are loyal and protective of their families. They require consistent training and proper skin care but can be excellent companions in the right home.
20. Standard Poodle: Standard poodles are highly intelligent, medium sized dogs weighing 40–70 pounds. They are eager to please, easy to train, and great with kids. Their curly coat requires regular grooming, but their adaptability and gentle nature make them one of the most popular family dogs in the US.
Health, Exercise, and Daily Care for Medium Sized Dogs
Medium sized dogs are generally easier to care for than very small or very large breeds, but they still need daily attention. Regular exercise, grooming, and preventive care help medium dogs stay healthy and well-behaved.
Most medium sized dogs need 30–90 minutes of physical exercise per day. Energetic breeds require both mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom. Grooming needs vary by coat type, from low maintenance short coats to curly or wavy coats that need regular brushing. Preventive vet care, healthy weight management, and consistent routines all play an important role in long-term health.
FAQs
What is the best medium-size dog?
The best medium size dog depends on your lifestyle. Active families may prefer australian shepherds or border collies, while calmer households may choose a basset hound or cocker spaniel.
What is the calmest medium-sized dog?
Basset hounds, whippets, and some cocker spaniels are often considered among the calmest medium sized dogs, especially indoors.
What size is a medium-sized dog?
A medium sized dog typically weighs between 30 and 60 pounds and stands about 18–24 inches tall at the shoulder.
Conclusion
Medium sized dogs can make excellent family companions when their energy levels, temperament, and care needs match a household’s lifestyle. By choosing the right breed and committing to proper training, daily exercise, and routine care, pet parents can raise happy, healthy dogs that thrive in family life. With the right approach, medium sized dog breeds often grow into loyal, well-balanced companions that bring joy to families for many years.
