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

Some people like to go big or go home by adopting large dog breeds, while some prefer pint-sized pups and go for a small dog breed — but if you ask us and Goldilocks, the perfect pet is right in the middle. These medium-sized dog breeds are as cuddly as their smaller counterparts and often just as playful as larger dogs, in a more manageable package. Generally, dogs in this category weigh in at about 30–70 pounds, although some can certainly grow bigger or stay smaller than that. While they may have size in common, there's lots to choose from within the category. These breeds totally vary in activity level, trainability, coat type and temperament. Looking for low-shedding dog that won't set off your allergies? Check out the standard poodle. Need a running buddy that can go and go for miles? A German Shorthaired Pointer or Dalmatian might be just your speed. Or do you need a mold-mannered soul that'll play nice with the kids? Labrador Retrievers live up to their number-one reputation as the perfect family dogs.

This list includes members from almost all of the breed groups (including sporting, non-sporting, working, hounds and terriers) minus the tiny toy breeds. We've included some of the most popular options (we see you, Golden Retrievers) but also some deep cuts you may not know, like Boykin Spaniels and Pyrenean Shepherds. Before you bring home any dog, do your homework on the cost and commitments associated with owning a pet. Always adopt animals from reputable sources, like respected animal shelters or breeders.

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

Regal and aloof, this dog does not fawn or beg for attention (although those adorable faces mean they don't exactly starve for it either). The Chinese Shar-Pei is devoted to its family, making it a great watchdog.

Weight: 45–60 pounds

They haven't earned the name "water dog" for nothing. PWDs have waterproof coats and webbed feet, originally bred for fishing. Today, the Obamas' two pets are the most famous examples of the breed. The family partially chose the "First Dogs" for their hypoallergenic fur.

Weight: 35–60 pounds

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The Chow Chow's keen intelligence, independent spirit and innate dignity make it an impressive breed. They tend to be reserved, even toward family, but are very loyal.

Weight: 45–70 pounds

This multi-talented breed has been a dog of war, a shepherd, a hunter and a ratter, not to mention the stereotypical firefighter's companion. They're loving, spirited and fast learners. A natural watchdog, Dalmatians are reserved with strangers and don't like other dogs in their territory.

Weight: 45–70 pounds

Gentle, easygoing and very affectionate, this breed is a top choice for families that need a dog for the kids to grow up alongside. They're playful and love to engage in rough and tumble games. Springer Spaniels even get along well with other dogs, if you've got a pack started at home.

Weight: 40–50 pounds

With a fiery orange coat and pointed ears, the national dog of Finland tends to resemble a fox more than a canine. "Finkies" are not only excellent watch dogs but also friendly playmates for children.

Weight: 20–35 pounds

Bred for "tolling," or luring game, these active partners do best when you give them a job to do, so plan some spirited training games for them. Active families will love their affectionate and intelligent demeanor.

Weight: 35–50 pounds

Podengos are lively and playful, coming in three sizes: pequeno, médio and grande. The hounds date back to the fifth century and enjoy working together in a pack, so they might get lonely if they're an only canine.

Weight: 35–65 pounds

Active and cheerful, these herders come in rough- and smooth-coated varieties. Usually, Pyrenean Shepherds bond intently with one person and can be wary of strangers so they may be a better fit for smaller households.

Weight: 15–30 pounds

This high-energy dog loves being outdoors, especially if you live somewhere where it snows in the winter. Samoyeds are friendly, intelligent and eager to please, but they also tend to be a bit shy.

Weight: 35–65 pounds

Vizslas, also called Hungarian Pointers, are energetic yet gentle and affectionate. Their short coats range in color from a sandy yellow to red rust for a dog that's as striking as it is friendly.

Weight: 45–60 pounds

Different from English Springer Spaniels, "Welshies" date back to 7,000 B.C., when humans started using domesticated hunting dogs. Their trademark red-and-white coat is weatherproof and waterproof, perfect for a day in the field or as a hiking partner.

Weight: 35–55 pounds

These nimble pups can reach speeds of 35 miles per hour, but are also calm and quiet indoors, barking infrequently. Throw a ball for yours and watch them go!

Weight: 25–40 pounds

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This lesser-known breed is the tallest of all the spaniels, measuring at around two feet tall. You'll find they share similar traits to other members of the hunting group: a high energy level and eager-to-please mentality.

Weight: 45–70 pounds

These pups were originally bred for hunting due to their stamina and determination, but they also make for good running and hiking companions that can keep up with their active owners. Their keen noses mean they'll keep the yard free of critters, too.

Weight: 60–75 pounds

Known for their elegant coat, these independent pups are an agile and powerful breed. They can act somewhat aloof, but don't let their appearance fool you. Underneath those flowing locks, they're sweet and somewhat silly.

Weight: 50–60 pounds

Mals are typically very active, high-energy dogs that function best with regular physical activity and a task to get done. They make great working dogs, so you'll often see them in law enforcement or rescue capacities.

Weight: 40–80 pounds

Experts named them one of the smartest breeds around, and not just because of those trademark "spectacle" markings that stretch from ear to ear. A total people person, the Keeshond has also never met a stranger.

Weight: 35–45 pounds

The official dog of South Carolina, this Southern spaniel stays true to its roots as a hunting companion. Besides keen swimming abilities, they're eager, energetic and totally endearing.

Weight: 25–40 pounds

This ancient breed dates back to the Viking age, when they helped hunt elk, bear and other big game animals. Today, Elkhounds maintain their versatility and athleticism, but win over new owners with a sociable and confident demeanor.

Weight: 45–55 pounds