What Breeds of Dogs Are Considered Medium-Sized Dogs?

An important consideration in choosing a breed of dog that suits your household is the size. Toy breeds are a good choice for adults in small quarters, but not if there are small children in the household. Toy dogs are fragile if they are dropped or involved in rough play. The large breeds tend to be best with active adults. A medium breed measures 16 to 22 inches at the shoulder, making them a good size for both kids and adults.

  1. Terriers

    • The Airedale is a lively and intelligent medium-sized breed.

      The terrier group is known for its intelligence and lively spirit. Most terriers are small dogs, but there are several who fall into the medium range. Airedales are handsome dogs that make excellent companions. When they reach maturity, they weigh approximately 45 lbs. The bull terrier is an affectionate and lively dog with a smooth, short coat. This muscular breed reaches 52 to 62 lbs. Other choices include the Bedlington, Irish and the Kerry blue terriers. These dogs, like many terrier breeds, need to be brushed and professionally groomed periodically to maintain their coats.

    Companion Dogs

    • The English bulldog is a loyal companion.

      Companion dogs are bred to have an even temperament, making them wonderful additions to a family. The standard poodle is highly sensitive and trainable with high intelligence. Poodles are friendly dogs that are eager to please and good with children. Their coat requires professional grooming. A comical-looking dog is the English bulldog. It is medium in stature but compact and broad, weighing as much as 55 lbs. Behind its menacing expression is an amiable and docile companion. Its short muzzle causes this breed to snore, and it does not tolerate excessive heat. The pinscher is an ancient medium breed. It is a sleek dog that typically has docked ears and tail with a short and glossy coat. It is a docile dog, but its fierce bark makes it well-suited as a watchdog.

    Hounds

    • Beagles are well-suited for families.

      Perhaps the most endearing hound is the beagle. Beagles can reach 16 inches when they are full-grown, although some are smaller. They are loving and possess a calm demeanor, but they are very active dogs. A soulful hound is the basset. Basset hounds are a mild-mannered breed and are especially good with children. They can be stubborn, though, and house-training can be difficult. Both of these breeds howl. A less-common hound is the basenji, which has a cheerful temperament and is good with young children. It is well-known for its inability to bark. That does not mean it is silent, however; its voice is similar to a yodel.

    Working Dogs

    • The Siberian husky is an active and devoted family dog.

      Working breeds have traits that make them suitable for specific tasks. Siberian huskies have a thick double coat and fur between the pads on their feet, allowing them to pull a sled in the coldest climates. Huskies are intelligent and loving but must be kept on a leash at all times or they will stray. The boxer is a medium-size working dog that has been used for police work and as a watchdog. Their instinct is to be somewhat suspicious of strangers, but they are devoted to their families. The standard schnauzer's service was as a carriage dog and a watchdog in stables. Its spirited nature and alertness makes it ideal for these duties. Schnauzers make loving and loyal companions.