Ready to adopt? Discover the 18 best medium-sized family dog breeds
Choosing a new dog for your family is an important decision. After all, it will become a new member of the family. So, the question is, how do you choose a medium-sized family dog?
Or, as some people ask, what medium-sized dogs make the best family dog?
Well, you are in the right place for some canine inspiration.
We compiled a list of the best, most fun, and most playful medium-sized family dogs ideal for active families.
These dogs will fit perfectly in your family.
Some people say small dog breeds make the perfect family dog, but that is not necessarily the case — every family has preferences. Some prefer large dog breeds.
But many families prefer mid-sized dogs. So, scroll down and check out our list of amazing medium-sized dog breeds that make perfect family pets.
French Pointer
This water dog is best for swimming enthusiasts. It has a soft, short coat with pretty brown and tan speckles.
Their best traits are gentleness, friendliness, social activity, and submission. On average, they weigh 40-55 pounds.
Discover the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever — an extraordinary breed with a captivating legacy and remarkable hunting skills.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
This Canadian breed furry friend is one of the best dogs you can find. It has a beautiful medium coat and a kind disposition.
They have a high rating on the American Kennel Club for family-friendliness and behavior with children and other dogs.
All of these remarkable qualities make them excellent breeding options in breed groups. We must warn you that they are adorable and like to play a lot of fetch. They weigh around 35-50 pounds.
American Staffordshire Terrier
These angry-looking pups train easily.
They don’t just look confident; they are confident and intelligent, too.
The dogs have broad heads, well-defined jaws, pronounced cheekbones, and dark, round eyes.
They usually weigh around 45-55 pounds.
English Cocker Spaniel
This dog is popular for its luxurious look due to its beautiful coat and eyes.
They were once a hunting companion, but now they play cheerfully in people’s homes in the United States.
English Cocker Spaniels weigh around 28-34 pounds.
Boykin Spaniel
Boykin Spaniels are cute, chocolate-brown dogs that once served in hunting but are now among the best medium-sized breeds.
They are excellent with children and other dogs, making them a great addition to your family. They weigh around 25-40 pounds.
Basset Hounds have a calm and lazy nature.
Basset Hound
A Basset Hound is an excellent choice if you love adorable, sad-looking dogs who love to lie on the couch.
These laid-back dogs excel at showing affection to the people they love and are beloved family dogs.
Basset Hounds weigh about 40-65 pounds.
Australian Shepherd
These herding dogs are cute, but don’t let that cuteness fool you; they are strong and clever.
They work well with a job and space for fun. Australian Shepherds weigh around 50-65 pounds.
These dogs are excellent matches for people with active lifestyles. They need lots of exercise and excel in sports like agility training.
Japanese Akita Inu
People generally bred this beautiful and pretty-looking breed to hunt in the mountains of Japan.
However, they became rare over time, and only 16 remained after World War II.
Breeding has increased their numbers, and they are now an excellent option for a family dog. They weigh around 65-75 pounds.
Poodles are easy to train and quickly show their abilities to obey, track, retrieve, and hunt.
Standard Poodle
Who doesn’t know and love a poodle? It is a popular dog, along with its cousin, the Golden Doodle.
They are some of the best medium-sized and family dogs with great charm and fancy looks.
They can weigh around 60 – 70 pounds.
Shar-Peis require training to stay calm around strangers and other dogs.
Chinese Shar-Pei
The soft, wrinkly snout hides an excellent guard dog with unmatched loyalty and protectiveness.
They are relatively large dogs, so beware; you may have to train them to remain calm around strangers and other dogs.
They weigh around 45-60 pounds.
The Dalmatian is known for being playful.
Dalmatian
You must have seen the movie 101 Dalmatians. Dalmatians are as cute and playful as in the movies, and their spotted coats make them stand out from the crowd.
Bred to guard and protect, these medium-sized dogs evolved into loyal, loving household pets that retain their innate protective instincts.
They weigh around 45-70 pounds.
Bulldog
The bulldog is an iconic, legendary dog breed that is a great family dog. Many celebrities, including Brad Pitt and Adam Sandler, have bulldogs.
They look powerful and dignified, and they are, too.
Bulldogs make good companions because they are loyal to their owners.
They also like to walk and exercise despite how they look.
The dogs can weigh about 40-50 pounds.
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever, or simply Labrador, is one of the most popular breeds. They are excellent family dogs and have protective instincts.
Labs are happy pups and love to greet and socialize, so that’s a plus because you can go to a dog play group with this pup. They are eager to please and easy to train.
They fit well with an active family.
The dogs weigh around 55-80 pounds.
Border Collie
Border Collies offer plenty of reasons to love them.
They are athletic, brilliant, and energetic, and like to cuddle.
Although they sometimes take a bit longer to warm up to strangers, once they get friendly, they love their friends.
Border Collies like to exercise and walk, so you should choose another dog if you prefer to sit around. They weigh about 30-55 pounds.
Chow Chow
These fluffy, puffy dogs make a great addition to a family of clean freaks.
They groom themselves, are easily housebroken, and hardly smell.
Chow Chows also make great companions for walks around the block, thanks to their calm demeanor. The dogs weigh around 45-70 pounds.
The Portuguese Water Dog excels in sports such as tracking, agility, and dock diving.
Portuguese Water Dog
This is one of the most adventurous dogs you will meet. If you didn’t know, Former President Barack Obama had two Portuguese Water Dogs.
As their name implies, they love water, and they also prove to be excellent buddies who are easy to train and alert. They weigh around 35-60 pounds.
Deutscher Wachtelhund
The Deutscher Wachtelhund is a German-kept secret that is the best hunting dog.
They are determined on the hunting grounds and, likewise, are as sweet and loving as a family dog can be. They weigh around 40-55 pounds.
Bavarian Hound
This dog is a wonderfully gorgeous medium-sized dog with an even ombre color, ranging from dark chocolate brown to reddish-brown.
It is a great furry friend, calm, devoted, and loyal. They weigh around 37-66 pounds.
Choose the best medium dog breeds for your family
When selecting a medium-sized dog breed for your family, you must consider several factors. You need to find a breed that fits your family’s lifestyle and has the right temperament and energy level for your household.
Use these tips to help you choose the best medium-sized dog breed for your family:
Consider your family’s activity level
Different breeds have different activity levels and exercise needs.
If your family is active and enjoys spending time outdoors, a high-energy breed like a Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd may be a good fit.
A calmer breed, such as a Basset Hound or Bulldog, may be more suitable if your family prefers low-key activities, such as lounging on the couch or taking leisurely walks.
Think about space restrictions
Medium-sized dogs typically require more space than smaller breeds, so consider the size of your home and yard when selecting a dog breed.
Breeds like Beagles and Cocker Spaniels need less room to run than larger breeds like golden retrievers or Border Collies.
Research breed temperament
Every breed has personality traits that influence its compatibility.
Some breeds are gentle and patient with children, while others may have a strong prey drive, making them unsuitable for homes with small pets.
Consider allergies
If anyone in your family suffers from allergies, it is essential to choose a hypoallergenic breed that produces less dander and sheds less hair.
Some popular hypoallergenic medium-sized breeds include Poodles, Schnauzers, and Portuguese Water Dogs.
Evaluate grooming needs
Some dog breeds, especially heavy-shedding breeds, require more grooming, which can be significant for busy families.
Breeds with longer coats or double coats, like Huskies or Collies, may need regular brushing and trips to the groomer, while breeds with shorter coats, like Boxers or Greyhounds, may only need occasional brushing.
Seek professional advice
If you need help deciding on a breed, seeking advice from a professional such as a veterinarian or reputable breeder is helpful.
They can provide valuable insights into breed characteristics and help you make an informed decision that best suits your family’s lifestyle.
Training needs for family dogs
Medium-sized family dogs are popular due to their perfect balance of size and energy levels.
They are not too small to be fragile around children, but also not too large to overwhelm a household.
Proper socialization is crucial for raising a well-behaved and happy dog.
Expose your furry friend to different people, animals, environments, and experiences from an early age.
Socialization helps dogs develop confidence and learn how to interact with others.
Socialization is crucial for medium-sized family dogs, as they have enough energy and strength that can become problematic if not properly channeled.
Without sufficient socialization, these dogs can exhibit destructive behaviors, such as excessive barking or chewing, due to boredom or anxiety.
Start by introducing your dog to various people, including children and older adults.
They should also be exposed to other animals, such as cats or smaller pets, so they learn to behave appropriately around them.
Take your pup on walks in different environments, such as parks or busy streets, to help it get used to different sights, sounds, and smells.
Training is another essential aspect of owning any dog breed, particularly for medium-sized ones with high energy levels that need direction.
Obedience training is beneficial for teaching basic commands like sit or stay and strengthening the bond between you and your furry friend.
When choosing a medium-sized family dog breed, consider Labrador Retrievers or Australian Shepherds, which are known for being easy to train.
Consistency is vital for training. Ensure everyone follows the same rules to avoid confusing your dog.
Use treats, praise, and rewards to encourage good behavior.
Potential health issues
Understand potential health issues that may affect family dog breeds. While most medium-sized dogs are generally healthy and have a longer lifespan than larger breeds, they can still be prone to specific health conditions.
One common health issue among medium-sized dogs is hip dysplasia, a genetic condition that affects the hip joints and can cause pain and discomfort when moving.
Breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds are more likely to develop this condition.
Another potential health concern for medium-sized family dogs is obesity. These breeds tend to gain weight if they don’t get enough exercise and eat a healthy diet.
Obesity can lead to various health problems, such as joint issues, diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory problems.
Medium-sized family dogs are active breeds that require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being.
The amount of exercise needed varies with the breed’s energy level and age.
Generally, it ranges from 30 minutes to an hour of daily activity.
For example, breeds like Beagles and Cocker Spaniels are known for their high energy levels and need plenty of physical activity, such as running, playing fetch in a fenced yard, or going on long walks/hikes with their owners.
Conversely, breeds like Bulldogs or Basset Hounds have lower energy levels and may only require moderate exercise, such as short walks around the neighborhood or playing indoors with interactive toys.
Pet owners must exercise their medium-sized family dogs regularly to prevent them from becoming bored or destructive or gaining too much weight.
Lack of exercise can lead to behavioral problems such as excessive barking, digging, or chewing.
In addition to providing plenty of exercise, mental stimulation is crucial for these breeds.
Interactive toys and games that challenge their problem-solving skills keep them mentally stimulated.
When considering bringing a dog into your home, several key factors must be taken into account, including the dog’s lifespan, grooming requirements, and potential behavioral issues.
Seasonal care tips
Caring for medium-sized dogs throughout the year requires attention to seasonal changes:
Consider lifespan
Each of these elements plays a significant role in ensuring a fulfilling and harmonious relationship between the dog and its owner.
Different dog breeds have varying life spans, which can influence your long-term commitment. Larger breeds often have shorter lifespans, while smaller breeds tend to live longer.
Understanding the expected lifespan of the breed you’re interested in allows you to prepare for the emotional and logistical aspects of caring for a dog throughout its life; this knowledge can also impact your family dynamics, travel plans, and expectations for future life stages.
Additionally, grooming requirements can significantly differ among breeds, affecting the level of care needed.
Some dogs require regular professional grooming, while others only require occasional brushing. Moreover, dogs with longer or thicker fur may be more prone to matting and skin issues without proper care.
Prospective dog owners can ensure they are prepared for the time, effort, and financial commitment to keeping their furry friend healthy and comfortable by considering grooming needs.
Lastly, understanding potential behavioral issues is essential, as every dog has its unique personality and temperament. Certain breeds may be predisposed to behavioral challenges like anxiety, aggression, or excessive barking.
Costs of owning a medium-sized dog
Owning a medium-sized family dog brings joy and companionship, but it’s essential to understand the financial commitment involved.
Initial expenses include adoption or purchase fees, ranging from $50 to $3,000, depending on whether you adopt from a shelter or buy from a breeder.
You’ll also need to budget around $150 to $300 for supplies like crates, bedding, and toys, and $100 to $400 for initial veterinary costs, including check-ups and vaccinations.
Ongoing care presents additional recurring costs. High-quality dog food typically costs $30 to $100 monthly, while grooming can range from $30 to $100 every few months.
Training classes, essential for good behavior, can cost between $100 and $300. Consider pet health insurance, which can cost between $30 and $80 per month, and budget an extra $20 to $50 monthly for treats and toys.
Potential medical costs can vary significantly. Annual vet visits typically range from $100 to $300, and unexpected health issues can cost hundreds or even thousands.
Setting up an emergency fund is wise, especially for breeds prone to specific health conditions that may require ongoing management.
Adopting a medium-sized family dog from a shelter or rescue is one of the most compassionate and rewarding choices you can make.
Not only are you giving a deserving dog a loving home, but you’re also helping to reduce pet overpopulation and supporting animal welfare. Rescue dogs often come with basic training and have been temperament tested, making it easier to find a great match for your family.
To find available medium-sized rescue dogs, start by visiting your local shelter or humane society. You can also browse breed-specific rescue groups or search online databases like Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet, where you can filter by size, breed, and location.
When you adopt, you gain a loyal companion and give hope to a dog in need—consider making adoption your first option.
Introduce the dog to your kids
Teaching children about appropriate behavior around dogs is crucial when introducing a dog to a family with kids.
This includes explaining to them how to approach and interact with the dog, and how to recognize signs of fear or discomfort in the dog’s body language.
Clear and consistent communication with the children about respecting the dog’s space and boundaries is essential.
Before bringing the dog home, it’s beneficial to set up a designated space for it, such as a crate or bed, where it can retreat when it needs some alone time.
This will help the dog acclimate to its new environment and provide a safe space away from the kids’ excitement and energy.
It’s also important to supervise all interactions between the dog and the children, especially in the initial stages of the introduction.
Encourage gentle and calm interactions, and always be ready to intervene if necessary.
Lastly, the children should be involved in caring for the dog, such as feeding, grooming, and walking.
This helps to create a sense of responsibility and a bond between the children and the new family member.
Find the right dog
When looking for a mid-size family dog, consider reputable breeders and rescue organizations.
Start by identifying breeds known for good family temperaments, such as Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, and Bulldogs.
Check national breed club websites for ethical breeders who prioritize health, conduct necessary health testing, and are open to facility visits where you can ask questions. It’s also helpful to get references from previous buyers.
Alternatively, local shelters and humane societies offer many dogs for adoption, with staff that can provide important insights about each dog’s compatibility with families.
Breed-specific rescue organizations can also be a valuable resource. Websites like Petfinder allow you to filter searches by size, breed, and location.
When you find a potential match, arrange a meet-and-greet to ensure a good fit and be ready for the application process, as rescuers seek responsible homes for their dogs.
Frequently asked questions
Do medium-sized family dogs shed a lot?
Which medium-sized family dog fits your family? (Quick quiz)
Final thoughts on the best medium-sized family dog breeds
This long list includes some amazing dogs that can fit nicely into a family, even if you like big, dignified dogs like retrievers or bulldogs.
However, if you are more of a cute, loving family, poodles, basset hounds, or cocker spaniels will be a fantastic choice. They can play, fetch, cuddle, care, and be protective.
Before you bring your new dog home, prep your space by setting up a dedicated area with a bed, water bowl, and toys.
Puppy-proof your house by securing loose wires, storing hazardous items, and setting boundaries in off-limits rooms.
When introducing your dog to kids, teach children to be gentle and respect the dog’s space, and always supervise early interactions.
Schedule a vet visit within the first week to establish a health baseline, discuss vaccinations, and get professional tips on nutrition and care.
Taking these steps ensures a smooth transition and helps your new family member feel safe and welcome from day one.
Sharon Feldman is a safety and legal writer based in San Diego. She works closely with the attorneys at Kane Dulin McQuinn Young in Denver, who handle dog bite cases and other injury claims.