40 Medium-Sized Dog Breeds That Are the Perfect First Pet for Any Family (2024)

Aussies are uncannily smart and independent, with strong herding instincts that means they'll want to stick close to you. Loyal and devoted to their owners, these dogs are wary of strangers.

Weight: 40–70 pounds

Good-natured and easygoing, a basset hound has a great sense of humor and a couch-potato sensibility. They're stubborn and can be on the lazy side, sometimes making them challenging to train.

Weight: 40–65 pounds

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GSPs can run, run, run — and then for a nice change, run some more. If you've got an active family, this might be the dog for you. High marks in smarts, companionship and hunting ability make GSPs one of the most popular dogs in the country.

Weight: 45–70 pounds

Huskies are clever, happy and eager to please. They're friendly by nature but also very hard-headed. This high-energy dog prefers to spend lots of time outdoors, especially if you live in a cooler climate.

Weight: 35–60 pounds

Both Timmy and Lassie can attest to the devoted nature of Collies. These active yet affectionate herders can follow commands quickly and accurately, but be forewarned: They do tend to be pretty vocal.

Weight: 50–75 pounds

It's no wonder that Labradors remain the most popular breed in the U.S.; these pooches are intelligent, friendly and loyal. They're so eager to please that Labs quickly adapt to jobs as service, guide and rescue dogs so if you need a working breed, look no further.

Weight: 55–80 pounds

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While we often think of poodles for their showstopping appearance, these pooches are more than meets the eye. They're known for their superior intelligence, so start thinking up fun tricks to teach them.

Weight: 40–75 pounds

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Given their legendary loyalty, Airedale Terriers are extremely trustworthy with children. They're eager to please and quick learners, but they can struggle to get along with other dogs so pick an Airedale if you have a one-dog household.

Weight: 50–70 pounds

Boxers are fun-loving canines that also make great watch dogs, protecting your home from strangers. To keep up with their exuberant nature, they need plenty of exercise each day.

Weight: 50–80 pounds

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Also called Blue Heelers, Australian Cattle Dogs are tireless herders who need lots of exercise and mental stimulation. You'll be rewarded with an alert and curious companion.

Weight: 35–50 pounds

Surprisingly, "Eskies" don't have any ties to the Eskimos — they actually gained popularity in the U.S. as circus dogs, performing tricks and walking across tightropes. As a family dog, Eskies are playful, perky and smart — not to mention quick learners.

Weight: 25–35 pounds

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Bearded Collies are boisterous and bouncy, with a more athletic build than similarly shaggy English Sheepdogs. They love the outdoors (in any climate!) and get along well with children.

Weight: 45–55 pounds

Shelties are very playful and energetic dogs, even though they're considerably smaller than similar-looking coolies. As herders, these dogs can run quickly and gracefully, but they're still small enough to scoop them up for a cuddle at the end of the day.

Weight: 15–25 pounds

These sporting dogs are known to be very happy, smart and gentle. While they can be quite active, they behave well with other animals and kids.

Weight: 20–30 pounds

Border collies are incredibly smart and athletic workers — one even starred in the movie Babe — but they have a tendency to herd objects and people, including children.

Weight: 30–55 pounds

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As field dogs, Brittanys have boundless energy and make for excellent running, hiking and hunting partners. They're quick to learn and love a challenge, but can be somewhat reserved if not properly socialized.

Weight: 30–40 pounds

Golden Retrievers put their ample smarts to good use as guide and service dogs, but underneath that trademark flaxen coat is a heart of gold. They're eager to please and fun-loving family members — making them super popular amongst pet owners.

Weight: 55–75 pounds

Beneath that frowning mug lies a real softie. They're loyal, steadfast, courageous and determined. Bulldogs are also willing to please — once they figure out what it is that you want. They snore up a storm and prefer milder climates.

Weight: 40–50 pounds

An Irish breed, these fuzzy terriers are known for their deep devotion and enthusiastic displays of affection. Owners have even nicknamed their characteristically enthusiastic welcome the "Wheaten greetin'."

Weight: 30–40 pounds

Smart and spirited, it's no wonder that Schnauzers are bred in three different sizes (miniature, standard and giant) so there's one for every household style. The sturdy canines are naturally protective and intelligent.

Weight: 30–50 pounds