So you’re thinking about getting a puppy. Like most people, you want a calm, cooperative pet you can enjoy, not a manic obsessive working dog or a dog that has behavioral/health issues. Luckily enough, there are a number of medium-sized breeds that make fabulous pets. Here are five breeds to consider.
Pembroke Welsh Corgis
Pembroke Welsh corgis are eager to please, easy to train, and are very affectionate without being too clingy. They are the ideal size for a pet, between 25 and 30 pounds and only around 10 inches tall at the shoulder. While they are content to nap in your lap they are also quite athletic and are up for any challenge; many corgis compete successfully in a variety of dog sports. The most common color is sable and white, but you can also find gorgeous tricolor Pembroke Welsh corgi puppies for sale.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
The Cavalier King Charles spaniel is one of the smallest spaniel breeds maturing at only 15 to 18 pounds and standing around 12 inches high. These dogs are noted for their wonderful stable, calm temperaments, affectionate nature, and complete lack of aggression. However, they do tend to be clingy and thus are not a good choice for people who expect the dog to spend 10 hours each day alone while they work. Also, be sure to ask your breeder about heart disease before purchasing.
Italian Greyhound
The Italian greyhound is a small sighthound; basically, they look like a miniature greyhound, weighing in at only around 15 pounds. They are true sighthounds and can achieve a speed of 25 mph; however, generally, they prefer to hang out with their owners or nap on the couch instead. They aren’t really suited for homes with small children since they can easily be accidentally injured.
Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland sheepdog looks like a miniature Lassie. Weighing in at 15 to 20 pounds and standing around 15 inches at the shoulder, these dogs sport a gorgeous coat. They come in a variety of colors including merle. A well-bred Sheltie makes an excellent pet, eager to please, calm, and non-aggressive, but be on the lookout for breeders producing fearful/reactive Shelties.
Beagle
Everyone is familiar with beagles, the smallest hound breed, weighing in at around 20 pounds and standing around 15 inches at the shoulder. These dogs have excellent temperament and are generally calm and non-aggressive. However, it should be kept in mind they are hounds and can be stubborn and noisy. If you get a beagle, you should find some way to keep its nose busy, such as by getting involved in scent work.
There are many medium-sized breeds of dogs that make excellent pets. We have considered temperament, energy levels, ease of training, and general overall healthiness and have selected these five breeds as your best options when looking for a new puppy.
