13 best medium dog breeds

Medium dog breeds are just the right size. Read on to learn more about these dog breeds’ personalities and heritage. One of them might just be the perfect fit to help grow your family by four paws.

Whippets look similar to Greyhounds, but they are much smaller, measuring about 45-55cm tall at the shoulder. “They’re incredibly fast and they love (and need) several quick bursts of intense activity each day, such as chasing a Frisbee. In between their energetic bursts they’re couch potatoes and love to snuggle up with their owners,” says Dr Jamie Richardson. “They’re very loving and affectionate, low-maintenance and rarely bark.” Whippets love having a big garden to run around in, but they are equally happy living in an apartment (as long as they get enough exercise).

“If you love cute wrinkles and don’t mind some stubbornness, bulldogs are a great breed,” says Alex Willen. Because bulldogs are very stocky, they typically stay relatively small for their weight. “You can find a number of different varieties of bulldogs, including French, British and Australian, but they’re all relatively similar in personality. They don’t require much exercise, which is helpful if you’re looking for an apartment dog or generally have a busy schedule.”

Now check out these other breeds of dogs that are best for apartment living.

Back in the 1950s, the Cocker Spaniel was viewed as the perfect suburban family dog. “Cockers are on the smaller size, topping out at 15kg,” says Dr Wooten. “They require grooming to prevent mats. They are friendly, tend to be good with children, and require 30 minutes of medium exercise per day.”

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are a medium dog breed in a small dog’s body because of their short, stumpy legs. Fully grown, they typically weigh around 7-15kg. “Although they are stout in size, their legs are quite muscular and their agility is remarkable. They are known for their friendly, playful and sometimes a little stubborn personality,” says Sakura Davis.

Bred as a hunting hound, beagles are a very independent breed. Beagles are a super sniffer and like to do their own thing, which can make them more difficult to train than other medium-sized dog breeds. However, they make great family pets and can fit into the lifestyle of single people. Dr Wooten says they shed very little and tend to be healthy.

Just like the super-sniffing beagle, check out 10 things dogs can smell that humans can’t.

The Shetland sheepdog is one of the medium dog breeds that has a super sweet personality. “Shetland sheepdogs, also known as Shelties, are docile, friendly, loving dogs that are good with families or single people,” says Dr Wooten. “They tend to be submissive and a little nervous, but not all of them. They need 30 minutes of daily exercise and are at home in family homes or apartments.” Keep in mind that sheepdogs shed year-round and heavily twice a year so they require regular brushing and grooming.

Shelties are just one breed of super smart dogs.

Anything you mix with a poodle makes an amazing medium doodle breed. These dogs tend to have hybrid vigour, are healthy and good with families and kids, says Dr Wooten. “The level of exercise they require and their level of shedding depends on what they are mixed with, and how the genetics play out.” Not all doodles are hypoallergenic and some of them do shed.

Looking for a dog that’s easy to groom? Here are 25 dog breeds that don’t shed (much).

“Bull Terriers are known for being a little stubborn and mischievous, but if provided with firm training and plenty of exercise, they make wonderful companions,” says Dr Richardson. “They’re incredibly loyal, loving, and devoted to their owners.”

English Springer Spaniels are another one of the medium dog breeds bred as working dogs. Their original purpose was hunting. “Springer Spaniels are extremely friendly, highly trainable, enjoy activities, and love spending time with their owners,” says Dr Richardson. “They’re people-pleasers and crave company; they become miserable if left alone too much. They’re well suited for families with children, and thrive in a highly active household with plenty of long walks and games of fetch.”