Medium Dog Breeds
71 medium breeds to explore.
American Staffordshire Terrier
Terrier · Medium
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a muscular and powerful breed known for its confidence and loyal nature. Thriving on human interaction, these dogs form deep bonds with their families and are remarkably gentle despite their strong appearance.
American Water Spaniel
Sporting · Medium
A versatile and rare gun dog, the American Water Spaniel was developed in Wisconsin to work as both a retriever and a flusher from small skiffs. Known for its distinctive curly, waterproof coat and upbeat personality, this breed is a tireless worker in the field and a devoted companion at home.
Appenzeller Sennenhund
Herding · Medium
The Appenzeller Sennenhund is a lively and high-spirited Swiss mountain dog known for its agility and enthusiasm. Originally bred as a cattle herding and guard dog, this medium-sized breed possesses boundless energy and a strong work ethic, making them excellent partners for active families. Their distinctive tricolor coat and tightly curled tail give them a striking appearance to match their confident and reliable personality.
Australian Cattle Dog
Herding · Medium
Originally bred to herd cattle across vast distances in the harsh Australian outback, the Australian Cattle Dog is a resilient and highly intelligent breed. They are known for their incredible work ethic and unwavering loyalty to their owners, often forming a shadow-like bond. This breed thrives on having a job to do and requires significant physical and mental stimulation to stay happy.
Australian Shepherd
Herding · Medium
The Australian Shepherd is a versatile and highly intelligent working dog that actually originated in the Western United States. Known for their striking coat patterns and intense 'eye' for herding, they are tireless companions that thrive when given a physical or mental job to do. Their agility and loyalty make them exceptional partners for active families and professional ranchers alike.
Barbet
Sporting · Medium
The Barbet is a rustic French water dog known for its dense, curly coat and cheerful personality. Historically used as a versatile hunter and retriever, this intelligent breed is deeply devoted to its family and excels in various dog sports. Their name comes from the French word 'barbe', meaning beard, reflecting their distinctive facial hair.
Basset Hound
Hound · Medium
Known for their mournful eyes and long, velvety ears, the Basset Hound is a scent hound originally bred for hunting small game. Despite their low-slung stature, they possess incredible strength and a sense of smell second only to the Bloodhound. They are charmingly stubborn but make incredibly affectionate and easygoing family companions.
Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound
Hound · Medium
Developed in the 19th century to track wounded game in the German Alps, the Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound is a specialized hunter with an incredible 'cold nose.' They are deeply devoted to their families and possess a calm, steady temperament, though they require significant physical and mental stimulation.
Bearded Collie
Herding · Medium
The Bearded Collie, affectionately known as the 'Beardie', is a shaggy-coated herding dog from Scotland celebrated for its enthusiastic and bouncy personality. They are charismatic family companions that thrive on activity and mental stimulation, famously performing a 'Beardie Bounce' when excited. While their long, double coat requires significant grooming, their affectionate nature and hardy spirit make them a joy for active owners.
Bedlington Terrier
Terrier · Medium
Resembling a lamb with its unique curly coat and arched back, the Bedlington Terrier is a graceful yet hardy breed originally bred for hunting vermin. Despite their gentle appearance, they are brave and spirited companions known for their loyalty and quiet demeanor at home.
Bohemian Shepherd
Herding · Medium
The Bohemian Shepherd is an ancient Czech herding breed known for its striking black-and-tan double coat and agile frame. Smaller and more manageable than a German Shepherd, they are exceptionally loyal family companions and versatile workers who excel in various dog sports.
Border Collie
Herding · Medium
Widely considered the most intelligent of all dog breeds, the Border Collie is a workaholic with an intense 'eye' used to control sheep. They are incredibly agile and responsive, thriving on mental challenges and vigorous physical activity. While they are affectionate companions, their drive to work means they need a dedicated owner who can keep their busy minds and bodies occupied.
Boykin Spaniel
Sporting · Medium
The Boykin Spaniel is a versatile hunter and a beloved family companion, originally bred in South Carolina for swamp hunting. Known for their beautiful chocolate-brown coats and webbed feet, these spaniels are exceptional swimmers and enthusiastic workers. Their friendly and eager-to-please nature makes them excellent pets for active households.
Braque du Bourbonnais
Sporting · Medium
The Braque du Bourbonnais is a calm, affectionate French pointing dog that bonds closely with its family and excels in the field. Originally developed in the historic Bourbonnais region, it is prized for its natural hunting instincts, versatility, and cooperative nature. This breed is special for combining a soft home temperament with focused, energetic working ability outdoors.
Braque Francais Pyrenean
Sporting · Medium
The Braque Francais Pyrenean is a versatile gun dog beloved for its sweet nature and adaptability. Unlike many high-octane pointers, this breed is famous for being 'born broken'—naturally obedient and calm inside the home without needing intense correction. While they are tireless athletes in the field, they transform into affectionate, gentle family companions on the couch.
Brittany
Sporting · Medium
Originally bred as a bird dog in the Brittany province of France, the Brittany is a versatile and high-energy companion. Known for being smaller than setters but leggy and agile, they are prized for their keen nose and sensitive, eager-to-please nature.
Bull Terrier
Terrier · Medium
Known as the 'kid in a dog suit,' the Bull Terrier is instantly recognizable by its unique egg-shaped head and triangular eyes. Originally bred in 19th-century England, these spirited companions are famous for their sense of humor, boundless energy, and deep devotion to their families.
Bulldog
Non-Sporting · Medium
The Bulldog is a thick-set, low-slung, well-muscled companion whose iconic 'sourmug' face represents courage and tenacity. Despite their tough appearance, they are famously gentle, affectionate, and prefer a quiet nap on the sofa over intense activity. Their calm and dependable nature makes them wonderful family pets that adapt well to various living situations.
Canaan Dog
Herding · Medium
The national dog of Israel, the Canaan Dog is a primitive breed that survived for centuries in the Negev Desert. They are exceptionally alert, loyal to their families, and possess strong survival instincts that make them excellent guardians.
Chinese Shar-Pei
Non-Sporting · Medium
Distinguished by its deep wrinkles and blue-black tongue, the Chinese Shar-Pei is an ancient and unique breed that served as a multipurpose farm dog in China. While they are intensely loyal to their family, their independent and guardian nature makes them naturally wary of strangers and other dogs.
Croatian Sheepdog
Herding · Medium
A rare and ancient herding breed from Croatia, the Croatian Sheepdog is easily recognized by its distinctive curly black coat and fox-like expression. They are tireless workers with exceptional intelligence, forming deep bonds with their owners while remaining naturally wary of outsiders. Historically used for driving cattle and sheep, they excel today in various dog sports due to their incredible agility and responsiveness.
English Cocker Spaniel
Sporting · Medium
Known as the 'Merry Cocker', this breed is famous for its constantly wagging tail and upbeat personality. Originally bred as a versatile hunting companion in England, they are now beloved family pets that balance a high energy level with a deeply affectionate nature.
English Springer Spaniel
Sporting · Medium
The English Springer Spaniel is a friendly and energetic bird dog, originally bred for flushing and retrieving game. They are known for their 'springing' gait and their intense desire to be with their family, making them both versatile hunters and affectionate companions.
Entlebucher Mountain Dog
Herding · Medium
The smallest of the four Swiss Mountain Dogs, the Entlebucher is a sturdy, high-energy herder known for its intense work ethic and devotion. They are incredibly agile and thrive when given a challenging job to perform alongside their human companions.
Field Spaniel
Sporting · Medium
The Field Spaniel is a medium-sized, level-headed hunting dog known for its noble bearing and sweet-natured personality. Originally developed in England as a versatile gundog, they are distinguished by their glossy coat and deep, soulful eyes. Today, they are cherished family companions that excel in various canine sports while remaining devoted and affectionate at home.
Finnish Lapphund
Herding · Medium
The Finnish Lapphund is a sturdy, thick-coated reindeer herder from the Arctic Circle, known for its friendly and submissive nature. These agile dogs possess a unique 'startle reflex' to avoid reindeer antlers and are beloved as devoted family companions. Their soulful eyes and 'Lappie' smile reflect a breed that is as gentle as it is hardy.
Finnish Spitz
Non-Sporting · Medium
Known as the 'Bark Pointer' of Finland, the Finnish Spitz is a fox-like hunting dog with a vibrant red-gold coat and a bold, friendly personality. They were originally bred to hunt small game and birds, using their unique, rapid-fire bark to alert hunters of their find. Today, they are beloved national treasures in Finland, cherished for their loyalty, alertness, and spirited nature.
German Pinscher
Working · Medium
As one of Germany's oldest breeds, the German Pinscher is the elegant progenitor of both the Doberman Pinscher and the Miniature Pinscher. They are highly versatile working dogs with a sharp intellect and a vivacious personality, serving as both vigilant guardians and affectionate family companions.
Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
Hound · Medium
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is a rugged, shaggy hound from France, known for its happy-go-lucky demeanor and impressive stamina. Originally bred to hunt rabbits and hare in packs over rough terrain, they possess a strong prey drive and an independent spirit. Despite their somewhat scruffy appearance, they are affectionate family companions that thrive on activity and companionship.
Harrier
Hound · Medium
The Harrier is a cheerful and outgoing pack hound, originally bred for hunting hares in England. Often mistaken for a larger Beagle or a smaller English Foxhound, they are known for their exceptional stamina, keen sense of smell, and sociable nature.
Icelandic Sheepdog
Herding · Medium
The Icelandic Sheepdog is Iceland's only native dog breed, a hardy and agile herder brought to the island by Viking settlers. Known for their fox-like faces and curled tails, these friendly companions are deeply devoted to their families and possess a joyful, alert personality. They are versatile working dogs that thrive on human companionship and active lifestyles.
Irish Terrier
Terrier · Medium
Known as the 'Daredevil of the Emerald Isle,' the Irish Terrier is a bold and spirited companion with a distinctive fiery red coat. They are incredibly loyal to their families, combining a tough, athletic exterior with a surprisingly tender and affectionate heart when at home.
Keeshond
Non-Sporting · Medium
Known as the 'Smiling Dutchman,' the Keeshond is a striking companion with a distinctive 'spectacles' marking around its eyes and a thick, plush coat. Originally bred as watchdogs for Dutch canal barges, they are highly social, intelligent, and deeply devoted to their families. Their cheerful disposition and adaptable nature make them excellent family pets that thrive on human interaction.
Kerry Blue Terrier
Terrier · Medium
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a versatile working dog from Ireland, famous for its striking blue coat that starts black and fades to its signature hue. Known as the 'Irish Blue Terrier,' they are highly intelligent, spirited companions that excel as both alert watchdogs and affectionate family members. Their non-shedding, wavy coat and multifaceted personality make them a unique and devoted addition to active households.
Kromfohrlander
Non-Sporting · Medium
The Kromfohrlander is a rare German companion breed known for deep loyalty and a close bond with its family. Developed after World War II, this medium-sized dog comes in both smooth and wiry-coated varieties and is especially valued for its cheerful, people-focused personality. Kromis are intelligent and adaptable, but they can be reserved with strangers, making early socialization important.
Lagotto Romagnolo
Sporting · Medium
Originally a water retriever in the marshlands of Italy, the Lagotto Romagnolo is now primarily known as the world's premier truffle-hunting dog. This medium-sized breed is celebrated for its dense, curly, waterproof coat and its affectionate, easygoing personality that makes it a wonderful family companion.
Lapponian Herder
Herding · Medium
A dedicated reindeer herder from the Arctic regions of Finland, the Lapponian Herder is known for its incredible stamina and work ethic. While energetic and vocal in the field, they are remarkably calm and loyal companions at home when properly exercised.
Miniature American Shepherd
Herding · Medium
The Miniature American Shepherd is a bright, agile herding dog developed in the United States from smaller Australian Shepherd lines. They are devoted family companions with strong work drive, quick learning ability, and a playful, athletic personality. Their combination of compact size and big-dog versatility makes them stand out in sports, farm work, and active homes.
Mountain Cur
Miscellaneous · Medium
The Mountain Cur is a rugged American working dog developed by frontier families for hunting, treeing game, and guarding homesteads. They are intensely loyal, energetic, and thrive when they have a job to do with their people. Their grit, athleticism, and strong bond with family make them stand out among versatile hunting breeds.
Mudi
Herding · Medium
A rare and versatile Hungarian herding dog, the Mudi is celebrated for its distinctive curly coat and remarkable intelligence. This agile breed thrives on having a job to do and is known for being deeply devoted to its family while remaining alert and courageous.
Nederlandse Kooikerhondje
Sporting · Medium
The Nederlandse Kooikerhondje is a lively and agile duck hunter from the Netherlands, easily recognized by its orange-red patches and distinctive black-tipped 'earrings'. These intelligent dogs are devoted to their families and possess a sensitive, alert nature that makes them excellent companions for active households. Historically used to lure ducks into traps, they remain energetic workers who thrive on mental stimulation and physical activity.
Norwegian Buhund
Herding · Medium
The Norwegian Buhund is a cheerful, agile Nordic spitz originally bred as an all-purpose farm and herding dog in Norway. They are people-oriented, quick learners, and naturally alert, making them both fun companions and reliable watchdogs. Their bright personality, athleticism, and classic Scandinavian look make them especially distinctive.
Norwegian Elkhound
Hound · Medium
An ancient Nordic spitz breed, the Norwegian Elkhound is a bold and energetic hunter known for its thick silver-gray coat and curled tail. Originally bred to track moose and other large game in harsh Scandinavian winters, they are fiercely loyal and protective companions that thrive on activity. While independent and sometimes stubborn, their affectionate nature makes them excellent family dogs for active households.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Sporting · Medium
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is the smallest retriever breed, developed in Canada to lure and retrieve waterfowl with its playful, fox-like movement. Tollers are bright, athletic, and deeply devoted to their families, thriving when given daily training and vigorous activity. Their combination of work ethic, sensitivity, and lively personality makes them both a capable sporting partner and an engaging companion.
Pharaoh Hound
Hound · Medium
The Pharaoh Hound is an elegant and athletic breed originally from Malta, where it was traditionally used for hunting rabbits. Known for its sleek lines and noble bearing, this ancient breed is highly affectionate and possesses a unique 'blushing' trait when excited.
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Herding · Medium
The Polish Lowland Sheepdog, or PON, is a sturdy, shaggy-coated herding dog known for its exceptional memory and clever, independent personality. Originally bred to guard and herd livestock on the Polish plains, they are devoted companions that require mental stimulation and consistent leadership.
Porcelaine
Miscellaneous · Medium
The Porcelaine is an elegant French scent hound known for its glossy white coat and tireless drive in the field. One of the oldest French hound types, it was developed for tracking and hunting small game with stamina and precision. At home, it is typically affectionate and social, but it needs consistent exercise and scent-focused activities to stay balanced.
Portuguese Water Dog
Working · Medium
Originally bred to herd fish into nets and retrieve lost tackle, the Portuguese Water Dog is a spirited and athletic companion known for its waterproof coat. They are highly intelligent, people-oriented, and possess an adventurous spirit that makes them excellent partners for active families.
Puli
Herding · Medium
The Puli is a lively Hungarian herding dog best known for its dramatic corded coat that forms natural dreadlock-like cords. Bred to work closely with shepherds, this breed is quick, intelligent, and deeply devoted to its family. Pulis are athletic watchdogs with big personalities, thriving in homes that provide regular activity and committed coat care.
Pumi
Herding · Medium
The Pumi is a versatile Hungarian herding dog, recognizable by its unique corkscrew-curled coat and expressive, tufted ears. This energetic and highly intelligent breed is known for its whimsical appearance and serious work ethic, making it an excellent companion for active owners.
Schapendoes
Herding · Medium
The Schapendoes is a shaggy-coated herding dog from the Netherlands, famous for its incredible jumping ability and unique springy gait. Almost extinct after World War II, this breed was revived by dedicated enthusiasts and is now loved for its tireless energy and friendly, cooperative spirit. Their thick, weather-resistant double coat gives them a charmingly tousled look that matches their playful personality.
Segugio Italiano
Hound · Medium
The Segugio Italiano is an ancient Italian scent hound prized for its stamina, sharp nose, and relentless tracking drive. Calm and affectionate at home, this breed transforms into a focused, determined hunter when working a scent trail. Its elegant build, rich history, and strong partnership with hunters make it one of Italy’s most distinctive native hounds.
Siberian Husky
Working · Medium
The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized working dog breed that originated in Northeast Asia. Known for their incredible endurance and wolf-like appearance, they are friendly, energetic dogs that require significant exercise and thrive in cooler climates.
Small Munsterlander Pointer
Sporting · Medium
The Small Munsterlander Pointer is a versatile German gundog known for pointing, tracking, and retrieving on both land and water. They are affectionate with family and usually social, but their strong hunting drive and high stamina mean they thrive with active owners who provide daily physical and mental work. Their balanced mix of trainability, nose work talent, and close partnership with humans makes them a standout all-around sporting companion.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Terrier · Medium
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a jolly, warm-hearted Irish breed known for its silky, waving single coat. They are less 'scrappy' than other terriers, maintaining a playful and puppy-like enthusiasm throughout their lives.
Spanish Water Dog
Herding · Medium
The Spanish Water Dog is a versatile Spanish farm and water-retrieving breed known for its curly, woolly coat and tireless work ethic. Intelligent and deeply loyal, these dogs bond closely with their families and thrive when given regular training and physical activity. Their rustic look, strong herding instincts, and all-purpose working history make them especially distinctive.
Stabyhoun
Sporting · Medium
The Stabyhoun is a rare Dutch all-purpose farm and hunting dog known for being affectionate, patient, and eager to work with its family. Historically used as both a pointer and retriever, it combines versatility with a calm, steady temperament at home. Its mix of loyalty, trainable intelligence, and rarity makes it especially prized among enthusiasts.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Terrier · Medium
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a stocky, muscular warrior with a sensitive soul and a deep love for its family. Renowned as the 'Nanny Dog' for its legendary patience with children, this breed combines formidable strength with a gentle, people-oriented temperament.
Standard Schnauzer
Working · Medium
The Standard Schnauzer is a bold, clever German farm dog originally bred to guard property and hunt vermin. They are lively companions with a strong watchdog instinct, famous for their distinctive beard and eyebrows. With consistent training and daily activity, they become loyal, engaging family dogs full of personality.
Sussex Spaniel
Sporting · Medium
The Sussex Spaniel is a distinctive, low-set hunter known for its rich golden-liver coat and cheerful, steady temperament. Unlike many other spaniels, they are famous for 'giving tongue'—barking with a deep, melodious voice while tracking a scent. While they can be stubborn and slow-paced, their affectionate and calm nature makes them excellent family companions.
Swedish Lapphund
Miscellaneous · Medium
The Swedish Lapphund is an ancient Nordic spitz developed by the Sami people to help herd and guard reindeer in harsh Arctic conditions. This breed is affectionate with family, highly trainable, and always eager to work, making it a strong fit for active homes. Its fox-like expression, thick weatherproof coat, and trademark vocal style make it both striking and full of personality.
Thai Ridgeback
Miscellaneous · Medium
The Thai Ridgeback is an ancient, athletic breed from Thailand known for the distinct ridge of hair growing in the opposite direction along its back. These dogs are deeply loyal to their people, highly intelligent, and naturally wary of strangers, giving them strong watchdog instincts. They thrive with experienced owners who provide early socialization, structured training, and plenty of physical and mental activity.
Tibetan Terrier
Non-Sporting · Medium
The Tibetan Terrier is a loyal, affectionate companion developed in Himalayan monasteries, where it was treasured as a good-luck dog. Despite its name, it is not a true terrier and was bred as an all-purpose companion and watchdog rather than a hunter. Its distinctive profuse double coat and sure-footed agility make it especially unique among medium-sized breeds.
Treeing Tennessee Brindle
Miscellaneous · Medium
The Treeing Tennessee Brindle is an athletic American scenthound developed for tracking and treeing game, prized for stamina, speed, and nose work. These dogs are vocal, driven, and happiest with active owners who can provide daily exercise and purpose. With consistent training and early socialization, they are affectionate, loyal companions at home.
Vizsla
Sporting · Medium
The Vizsla is a versatile, red-coated gundog from Hungary, known for its incredible stamina and 'Velcro dog' loyalty. They thrive on human companionship and require significant daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Sporting · Medium
The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a cheerful, devoted sporting dog known for its striking red-and-white coat and close bond with family. Bred in Wales as a versatile bird-flushing companion, this breed combines stamina in the field with a gentle, affectionate nature at home. They are especially special for their blend of elegance, work ethic, and sensitive, people-focused personality.
Whippet
Hound · Medium
The Whippet is a sleek English sighthound developed for speed, originally known as the "poor man's racehorse." At home, they are calm, affectionate, and famously fond of curling up in warm spots, but outdoors they are fast and agile sprinters. Their blend of elegance, quiet companionship, and athletic ability makes them especially unique.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Sporting · Medium
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a rugged, people-oriented hunting dog known for its keen nose and all-purpose field skills. Developed in 19th-century Europe by Eduard Korthals, the breed was designed to point, retrieve, and track on both land and water. Griffons are affectionate family companions with a distinctive scruffy coat and a hardworking, eager spirit.
Wirehaired Vizsla
Sporting · Medium
The Wirehaired Vizsla is a versatile Hungarian hunting dog known for its affectionate, people-oriented nature and rugged, weather-resistant coat. Bred from the Vizsla with added wire coat traits for work in harsher terrain, it combines stamina in the field with a calm, devoted presence at home. This breed is especially special for families who want an athletic outdoor companion that also forms deep bonds with its people.
Working Kelpie
Herding · Medium
The Working Kelpie is a legendary Australian herding dog renowned for its incredible stamina and tireless work ethic. Bred to manage vast flocks of sheep in harsh environments, they possess a keen intelligence and a natural instinct for livestock. They are highly adaptable and thrive when given a challenging job to perform.
Xoloitzcuintli
Non-Sporting · Medium
The Xoloitzcuintli, an ancient Aztec breed, is a calm and loyal companion characterized by its hairless skin and warm body. Highly regarded for its intelligence and protective nature, this breed is often called the 'Mexican Hairless Dog' and serves as a devoted family member.