Medium Dogs

Medium sized dogs are a perfect mix. They're not to big and not to small. See all the breeds and their pros and cons!

Medium dogs such as Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, Bulldogs and Labrador Retrievers are just right for owners that find small dogs too fragile and big dogs just too big. Medium dogs include robust, tough dogs. If you want to see the complete list (with pictures), just scroll down to the end of this article.

We’ve found plenty of benefits but we found it really hard to find any disadvantages. No wonder, as medium dogs almost always make up the top 10 most popular dog breeds worldwide.

Medium Dog Facts

Size: 16-24 inches (40-60 cm)
Weight: 22-57 pounds (10-26 kg)
Lifespan: 11-14 years

Cocker Spaniel Cocker Spaniel - Photo: Aleshyn_Andrei/Shutterstock

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Pros for Medium Dogs

Perfect for all activities

Of course, you can teach all dogs tricks, and most like to exercise - regardless of their size. But you can only really go running, hike, do agility training and play fetch for hours with medium-sized dogs.

Medium weight

Medium dogs won’t fit into handbags like chihuahuas. But you can pick them up and cuddle up in their fur when they’re laying next to you on the sofa. It’s generally easier to take a medium dog for a walk. A medium dog pulling on the leash doesn’t need as much strength as a large one. But good training means strength shouldn’t be necessary... When it comes to weight, exceptions in the medium dog category include Poodles, Shar-Peis and Labrador Retrievers. Their weight is above average despite their medium size.

Ideal for families with small children

Medium dogs are perfect for families with small children. Small and large dogs can be more difficult. Small children don’t yet have proper control of their muscles, so could end up hurting a small dog by accident. On the other hand, a large dog may be boisterous and accidentally knock over a child.

Healthy genes

Small and large dogs especially have health problems more often. The genes for short legs and a slight body are bred to create small dogs. That’s why they often suffer from knee and hip problems. Large dogs’ long legs and solid builds often lead to elbow and hip joint problems as well as disc prolapse. Medium-sized dogs haven’t been bred in any extreme ways, so are generally very healthy and tend to live much longer.

Positive perception

Large dogs scare some people. Walkers intuitively keep their distance - even if there’s no need as the animal is properly trained. On the other hand, small dogs get adoring smiles and can be trip hazards. A medium dog is the best of both worlds.

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Tip: neither the breed or the size of a dog should define your decision, rather the dog’s unique personality, temperament and nature - no matter what body they’re in.