Owning a medium-sized dog breed offers you the best of both worlds. These dogs are still big enough to join you on long hikes and wrestle about with. However, they are not so large that they cannot join you for a cuddle on the sofa at the end of the day.
Small dogs can have a reputation for being yappy and developing ‘small dog syndrome. Large and giant breeds tend not to live as long and often suffer from medical issues (such as joint disease) in their senior years. Think of it like Goldilocks and her porridge: Medium dogs are just right!
However, with so many breeds to choose from, which is the best? The breed you end up picking will suit your lifestyle, and that most appeals to you. Read on to learn more about our ‘Top five medium dog breeds’.
Cocker Spaniel
This famous dog was once used for hunting, and their specialty was woodcock (a wading bird). Due to their history, they enjoy being outdoors, sniffing trails, and getting wet in puddles and rivers. These boisterous dogs can be full on, so they require an owner with plenty of time to dedicate to their exercise and training. These dogs need long walks and physical activity. In addition, as ThePets.net highlights, this breed is prone to overeating. That is why you cannot give them large portions of food that is high in calories.
The long, fluffy ears of the Cocker Spaniel are one of their most attractive features and give them a unique look. However, as the ears are heavy and densely furred, they can be prone to chronic infections.
British Bulldog
Developed in Britain, the British Bulldog is often seen as a symbol of England and is the national breed. These ‘cheeky chappies’ have a face only a mother could love. They are so ugly with their excessive wrinkling and snub nose that they are somehow irresistible. This medium-sized dog is best known for its laid-back temperament and ability to tolerate children. Sociable with a playful streak, most get on famously well with other dogs.
English Bulldogs can suffer from several health issues, including breathing difficulties and chronic skin complaints. Owners should be familiar with these problems and willing to deal with them as needed.
Rough Collie
The TV show ‘Lassie’ is a breed made popularly. This handsome dog has a graceful and elegant body type and gait. This intelligent and active breed can become easily bored, so it is not suited to an inactive household. They relish the opportunity to engage their brain and can excel at all manners of activities and games.
Bred in Scotland to be herding dogs on farms, living with small children may prove a challenge, and they may even try to round them up! Their long, luxurious coat needs daily brushing if it is to stay in tip-top shape.
Chow Chow
An oriental breed, the Chow Chow has been in existence for over 2,000 years. Did you know that they were once a source of food for humans when times were tough? On top of this, their warm fur would have been used to make much-needed blankets.
These dogs have characteristic black-blue tongues. Puppies are born with regular pink tongues, but they darken during their first weeks of life.
Chow Chows need intensive and consistent training, as they can be pig-headed and even aggressive. Due to this, they are not suited to first-time owners.
Australian Cattle Dog
A dog with no ‘off switch,’ the Australian Cattle Dog should not be confined to an apartment or small home and needs plenty of land on which to roam. This breed requires hours of exercise every day and can become destructive if this is not provided.
Amazingly, Australian Cattle Dogs are descended from dingoes who were bred with domesticated dogs. Due to their genes, these guys can be stubborn as well as assertive. Their training should begin at a young age to mold them into suitable pets.
