Medium Dog Breeds: List, Name, Description and Interesting Facts

Many do not dare to have a four-legged pet due to inappropriate living conditions. Of course, large dogs, accustomed to wide open spaces, can hardly fit in a small-sized Khrushchev. Fortunately, along with large, there are medium-sized breeds of dogs, which will need much less space. Maybe that's why these individuals have gained such popularity?

The main classification of dog breeds

All varieties of dogs have their individual differences in temperament, external data and purpose. As a result, the International Cynological Federation has put forward a single list of dog breeds according to their mission:

1. Dogs for shepherd and cattle racing. The group excludes Swiss cattle dogs. The category contains many types of shepherd dogs that successfully help herders to monitor and protect flocks and herds of farm animals. Representatives of this category are distinguished by endurance and speed.
2. Pinschers and schnauzers make up the second group of pets. All dog-like and Swiss cattle dogs also enter there. Features of the section is that its representatives can be official, decorative and shepherd dogs.
3. Terriers ("boules", "toi", etc.). These dogs are excellent hunters and companions.
4. A separate clan allocated dachshunds that differ in the type of wool and size. Dachshunds are good burrowing dogs that are bred primarily for hunting foxes and other burrowing animals. Today they are used as decorative pets.
5. Primitive dogs and all kinds of Spitz. This includes sledding, hunting, herding, and guard animals.
6. Hounds and relatives. Representatives vary in size and are used in hunting fast-footed game (for example, hares).
7. Pointing dogs have a well-developed hunting sense. The group includes setters (English and Irish) and continental cops.
8. Dogs that are intended for hunting waterfowl. The section consists of all types of spaniels, retriever and other water dogs.
9. The room-decorative group of pets is distinguished by a calm complaisant character and extraordinary beauty. Here are 10 types of dogs.
10. Greyhounds are characterized by strength and endurance. A sophisticated elegant constitution promotes fast running when hunting for game. The division along the length of the fur implies the presence of three sections.
11. A separate section consists of dogs of unrecognized breeds. This includes those individuals that are recognized by the Russian Cynological Federation, but have not yet received high marks from the IFF.

Features of medium sized dogs

Another popular classification of tetrapods is the separation of breeds according to size. According to this, dog breeds for a medium-sized apartment are divided into:

• Small dog breeds with a body weight of not more than 12 kilograms and a height of less than 28 centimeters. Fluffy "babies" are designed to be kept only at home. Among small doggies there are hunters (dwarf dachshunds) and fighting breeds (for example, pugs). Due to circumstances, these breeds are used today as pets.
• Large dogs. They are intended mainly for official and guard purposes. Such giants can reach body weight of up to 25-30 kilograms. The growth of individual breeds can exceed 60-70 centimeters at the withers. Large dogs can easily tolerate being outdoors, therefore it is recommended to keep them in spacious enclosures in the yard. Strong, with a good reaction, they are excellent defenders of the owner and his home.
• Medium breed dogs. Universal in nature. On the one hand, they can protect a person with dignity. In addition, quite calm and friendly, they will become great friends for children. However, the main advantage is that small pets are quite compact. Their weight in most cases ranges from 12 to 25 kilograms, and their growth is 28-58 centimeters. A number of medium-sized dogs include hunting, service and decorative breeds.

Hunting medium breeds

The names of medium sized dog breeds that are intended for hunting are as follows:

• Dachshunds.
• Russian Spaniels.
• English and American Cocker Spaniels.
• Likes.
• Setters (Irish, Scottish and English)
• Retriever (Golden and Labrador).

Such dogs have great physical endurance. Many breeds today are used as domestic. When starting a medium sized hunter dog, remember that the pet needs long walks. For example, a cocker spaniel needs to walk at least an hour twice a day. Otherwise, the animal may become ill. Also, small hunters cannot fulfill the duties of security guards. Of course, they can notify the owner with a loud bark about the arrival of a stranger. But the pet will not be able to fully protect the home.

Decorative pets

The names of medium and small breeds of dogs of a decorative nature are often confused due to ignorance. Sometimes the same breed is attributed to both small and miniature dogs. Small decorative pets are:

• Chihuahua.
• Russian toy terrier.
• Yorkshire Terrier.
• Japanese chin.
• Pekingese.
• Pomeranz (dwarf spitz).
• Lap-dog (all types).

Medium-sized decorative dogs are:

• Poodle.
• Dalmatian.
• Basset Hound.
• Fox terrier.
• Shih Tzu.
• Bichon.
• Griffin.
• Kerry Blue Terrier.
• Schnauzer.
• Large German Spitz (Grosspitz).
• Dutch Spitz (Keeskhond).

It is noteworthy that many of these breeds are hunters. But thanks to their magnificent appearance, the owners prefer to see their pets as decorations on pillows. However, these plush miracles require long walks and outdoor games. Only then will the pets be cheerful and energetic.

Small Dogs

Both large and medium-sized breeds of dogs are excellent guards and watchmen. The difference between selfless defenders is the size of the animal. Among the average service dogs can be identified:

• Doberman.
• American Staffordshire Terrier.
• American Pit Bull Terrier.
• Swiss mountain dog.
• Chow Chow.
• German boxer.
• Bull Terrier.
• Sharpei.

Small watchmen are well trained, carry out commands clearly and get along well with all family members, as well as other pets. They rarely bark and have great intuition: they are sharpened to protect the owners, easily calculate the source of danger and selflessly engage in battle. They can also be entrusted with the protection of a large territory. At the time of their duty, they can be aggressive and ferocious.

Rare breeds of medium sized dogs

Among small dogs there are also little-known representatives. In particular, unique varieties include:

• The American Hairless Terrier is an animal with devotion and good hunting intuition. The dog, a direct descendant of the rat terrier, is great for people with allergies. And this is not surprising, since the pet has virtually no coat. Since the homeland of the naked terrier is the warm state of the USA (Louisiana), the animal is very susceptible to cold and requires keeping in an apartment. In addition, during walks in the winter, he will need special clothes for medium-sized dogs. The ancestors of the American Hairless Terrier were excellent Pied Piper. Therefore, the owner should not be amazed when one day the favorite of the family returns from a walk with gray prey in his mouth. Thus, he demonstrates his devotion and good hunting qualities. By the way, the breed is so rare in our time that on the earth there are no more than 70 individuals left.

• The next endangered breed of medium-sized dogs is the Norwegian lundehund. A descendant of hunting dogs of the islands of Vara and Rost, the animal still retained the ability to catch gorgeous birds. Since hunting for the latter (due to their disappearance) is prohibited, the lundehund has to be content with fun outdoor games on the lawns. Pets have a light complaisant character, friendliness and willingness to support the company. At the same time, they are suspicious of strangers, whether a person or an animal. Today, there are about 200 lundehunds, most of whom live in Norway.
• Perhaps the most unusual representative of rare medium-sized dogs is catalburun. A distinctive feature of the dog is its bifurcated nose. Catalburun (another name is Turkish Pointer) is an excellent hunter. The birthplace of the breed is the ancient Ottoman province of Cilicia (modern Tarsus district). It was there that dogs with exotic appearance were bred, which were intended to hunt partridges, hares and other small game. Today, dogs of catalburuns are almost impossible to meet on the streets of American or European megacities. And the name of the variety itself (which is translated from Turkish as "forked") is unusual for a European ear. The breed of dogs is so small that its representatives can be found only at home - in the province of Tarsus. Here they are used both as hunting dogs and as decorative ones.

Pet care

Like small, medium-sized breeds of dogs require careful grooming. Since many representatives of small doggies have long hair, it is necessary to comb it quite often (about 3-4 times a week, and in the case of curly fur - every day).

In the apartment, the dog must have its place. It is unacceptable when the dog (no matter how loved he was) slept in the same bed with the owner. It is best to place the litter of the pet in a little-visited corner so that the pets do not cause inconvenience to the animal, and this, in turn, does not prevent people from moving freely around the room. Well, if for comfort you can put a small house where the dog will feel like a full owner. The dog should be kept away from heaters, the refrigerator, and lit with enough natural light.

No matter how many dogs are in the house, each must have an individual litter. Since dogs are quite tall, bowls in which food is placed and water is poured is best placed on a small stand. In this way, the development of the animal’s incorrect posture can be prevented. In addition, it is more convenient for a dog to absorb food from a bowl on a raised platform. It is advisable to have a separate bowl for food and water.

The equipment for pets is diverse. The main equipment of dogs is a collar or harness and leash. Collars for large, small and medium-sized breeds of dogs should be comfortable and not rub the neck of the animal. It is best to purchase a two-layer tie made of leather or a quality substitute. However, it is possible to use strangleholds made of tarpaulin and other durable fabrics. The collar must be at least 40-60 centimeters long and 4-5 wide. At the same time, tear resistance should be several times the weight of the pet.

Leashes and belts can also be different. For smaller dogs, a roulette leash can also be purchased. And for hunters and watchmen it is best to buy a leather occasion 1.5-2 meters long with a loop handle on the end. Even as a leash, a chain of 2-2.5 m in length can also come up. It should have a counterweight to the gap, which corresponds to 100-150 kg. On the chain it is convenient to drive service dogs, hunting dogs and dogs with a difficult character.

In crowded places, medium sized dogs should be muzzled. When moving a pet on public transport, on guard or when working in the field, the owner must protect others from possible aggression. The best and most convenient is a soft leather product that securely covers the face of the animal. In this case, an excessively tight fit of the accessory to the skin is undesirable, otherwise it can cause rubbing and other inconveniences. It is undesirable to keep a dog in a muzzle for a long time.

Bathing shorthair breeds of medium-sized dogs is recommended at least once every six months. The water should be running, clean, moderately warm (20-22 ° C). When washing, use special shampoos or other detergents. Dogs need to be bathed only before feeding, as water procedures on a full stomach are difficult for a pet to tolerate. After the procedure, the animal must be thoroughly dried. You can use a hairdryer. Long-haired and curly-haired representatives comb well after bathing to avoid tangles.

Many medium sized dog breeds require a haircut. This grooming procedure is best done by a specialist, especially when the dog will participate in the exhibition. Individual breeds (for example, fox terriers) are subjected to model plucking of wool - trimming. If the owner does not plan to exhibit a pet and has some skills, you can trim the dog at home.

Pet feeding

Medium dog breeds for an apartment, like large dogs, need to move a lot. At the same time, they spend a lot of energy, which needs to be replenished due to nutrition. It happens that two representatives of the same breed can eat differently. It all depends on the mode of life of the animal. An active, agile pet, performing direct duties, absorbs food more than its relative, leading a calm lifestyle.

For feeding dogs of small sizes with organic (live) food, it is recommended to use only fresh products. The pet should be given food 2-3 times a day in small portions. The diet should include raw or boiled meat of cattle and poultry (except for pork). A useful additive in the diet will be cooked fish - sea or river. You can also give offal in boiled form. For better saturation and replenishment of the body with useful carbohydrates, cereals can be added to meat at the rate of 2 parts of fillet and 1 part of cereals. Almost all types are suitable, but oatmeal, rice, millet, buckwheat will be especially useful.

The list of acceptable products for animal nutrition includes:

• Biscuits.
• Stale bread from a mixture of rye and wheat flour.
• Vegetables (carrots, beets, potatoes and cabbage of all kinds), which are slightly boiled in water.
• Greens (salad, parsley, young nettle).
• In order to strengthen and prevent damage to the skeleton bones, bone meal can be mixed into food.
• For a better coat, brewer's yeast is added.
• In order to prevent profuse molting, a small amount of pharmaceutical sulfur is mixed into the food.

Manufacturers of non-natural food also produce special dry food for medium-sized dogs. You can also use canned meat for animals. It should be remembered that the combination of natural and industrial food is unacceptable.

Top 10 Popular Medium Dogs

Each era dictates its own fashion for many things, including pets. Today, the most popular medium sized dog breeds are:

• Labrador retriever is a good-natured, flexible, cheerful favorite of the whole family, especially if young children live here. A good companion and a good watchman, the Labrador is often used as a guide dog.
• The Golden Retriever is a close relative of the Labrador. As a family character traits, he has a cheerful disposition and friendliness.
• Recently, Beagles have been very popular - dogs with a sharp scent and a rather wayward character.
• The Cocker Spaniel captivates with its luxurious appearance and cheerful character. When starting a spaniel, it should be remembered that, in addition to its decorative purpose, the dog has a wonderful character. Without a periodic outing to nature and work as intended, the animal will be bored in a city apartment.
• Fans of dog fighting without rules, and simply safe existence, give birth to the American Staffordshire Terrier. The dog has a special ferocity and great devotion to the owner. All other people around are perceived as enemies - it is worth the owner to give the appropriate command. In some countries of Europe, as well as in the USA, the breed is equated with personal weapons, and its acquisition requires special permission.
• Dalmatians are favorites of esthete people. The spotted fur of the animal is suitable for any situation, and a cheerful disposition will help get rid of depression. In addition, they are excellent companions and intelligent intellectuals.
• Husky is a charming blue-eyed doggie, designed for transportation and sleigh racing. However, recently they have often been used as home-decorative pets. When establishing a husky dog, it should be remembered that in order to avoid animal diseases he needs to be given as many walks and outdoor games as possible.
• Luxurious German Spitz dogs are not for the poor. The high cost of the pet is justified by its magnificent appearance and friendly character. They can accompany their glamorous hosts with pleasure to all kinds of parties. When buying a spitz, one should not forget about careful care and special feeding of the dog, otherwise the pet risks losing its shiny appearance.
• The poodle is back in fashion. A decorative dog, the owner of luxurious curly hair, the poodle conquers with its cheerful disposition and beauty. Moreover, it practically does not fade, which is its additional advantage.
• Dobermans are distinguished by their proud posture and watchful intuition. The owner of the dog of this breed in the reliable "paws" of his pet, which will protect him under any conditions.

How to choose a puppy

Relatively small pets are a good choice for families with young heirs. Medium breeds of dogs are especially suitable for children who simply can’t cope with large dogs, and small dogs can be tortured by their obsessive desire to play.

Choosing a pet should be based on its purpose. If the future owner is a lover of hunting and fishing, you can stop at the cocker spaniel, setter, dachshund. In the case of the appointment of an animal as a plush toy, it is more advisable to purchase a Spitz, a poodle or a Bichon. "Staffs" and "pit" will be good defenders of the owner and his home. You should choose active puppies of medium breeds of dogs. Sluggish and super calm calves should arouse suspicion. It’s better not to take such dogs, because excessive calm can indicate health problems.

Interesting facts from the life of small dogs

In the history of cynology, unusual episodes from the existence of medium-sized breeds of dogs are known. Here are a few of them:

• A person did not participate in the development of basenji. The dog formed completely independently, through natural selection. And this dog does not know how to bark. In case of anxiety or joy, it gives out special rumbling sounds.

• Known today, fox hunters - dachshunds - initially appeared as pursuers of badgers.
• Poodles are dogs that have been cross-breeding the most. Labradoodle and cockapoo are considered the descendant of a poodle.
• The average shorthair Dalmatian dog breed is born completely white. Famous spots appear on the wool as the dog grows older.

The dwarf gene is inherent in a single breed - the Basset. This is evidenced by undeveloped short limbs, which, at first glance, do not harmonize with a large head and long body.