Medium Dog Breeds

Often confused with its colonial counterpart, the American Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is somewhat shorter but equally strong and muscular. Commonly known as "Stafford," this breed is celebrated for its lively and playful demeanor. While it does not actively seek out conflict, it is steadfast when challenged. Initially bred for dog fighting and ratting, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier underwent a transformation in its role after such cruel practices were banned in England. Despite its tough image, early breeding focused on cultivating gentler characteristics, which enhanced its loyalty and protective instincts towards its family. Today, this loving breed is an excellent companion for energetic families, full of vitality and enthusiasm for play.

The Chinese Shar-Pei is a large dog breed distinguished by its unique wrinkled head and face. Typically, these dogs weigh around fifty pounds and stand about eighteen inches tall. There is a belief that the Chinese Shar-Pei shares a lineage with the Chow-Chow, as both breeds feature a blue-black tongue, which often causes confusion between them. Traditionally, the Chinese Shar-Pei was a multifunctional farm dog in China, employed for various tasks such as hunting, tracking, herding, and protecting livestock. Unfortunately, some people misused the breed for dogfighting, as its distinctive wrinkled skin and coarse fur were thought to hinder opponents' grip. The breed came perilously close to extinction during the Communist Revolution, but a businessman from Hong Kong played a vital role in reviving interest in the Shar-Pei among American dog lovers. In 1992, the American Kennel Club officially recognized the Chinese Shar-Pei, and it has since gained popularity as one of the favored dog breeds in the United States.

Pitchows, often referred to as Chowpits, are a hybrid breed created by crossing American Pitbull Terriers with Chow Chows. These unique dogs generally have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years and are celebrated for their companionship. Their physical traits can vary greatly, reflecting the characteristics of either parent breed. Furthermore, their personalities can range widely; due to the differing temperaments of the Chow Chow and American Pitbull Terrier, the resulting puppies may display a mix of traits from both sides. Typically, Pitchows are loving and loyal, although they might be apprehensive around strangers.

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is one of six unique breeds of Basset Hounds originating from France. This lively hound excels in hunting, relying on his remarkable sense of smell as he often keeps his nose close to the ground. Renowned for his desire to please, he is typically easy to train. He flourishes best in an active home where he can partake in outdoor pursuits such as playing and hiking with his family. When raised with children, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne can make a delightful family companion, though he may initially be cautious around unfamiliar kids. To help him become a happy and well-adjusted family member, proper socialization is crucial.

The Sealydale Terrier is a hybrid breed that emerges from the union of the purebred Sealyham Terrier and the Airedale Terrier. Both parent breeds hail from the British Isles, but the Sealydale Terrier was specifically developed in South Africa during the early 20th century. Originally, this breed served mainly for hunting pests. As a medium-sized dog, the Sealydale Terrier exhibits the typical temperament associated with Terriers and is distinguished by its long, coarse coat. This hybrid is relatively uncommon, and there is ongoing discussion about its classification as a distinct breed. Currently, the Sealydale Terrier holds official recognition from only one competitive breed registry, the Dog Registry of America.

Pit Peis are a newly emerging designer dog breed, created by crossing a Shar-Pei with an American Pitbull Terrier. While these parent breeds share some common traits, they also have notable differences, especially in their physical characteristics. Both breeds can be quite stubborn, which means they are generally better suited for experienced dog owners. Consequently, we can expect certain traits in the Pit Pei, although some may still be unpredictable. These dogs have a dense coat, making them more comfortable in cooler temperatures and less ideal for vigorous activity in hot weather. As a medium-sized breed, they do best in homes with ample space and yards, but they can adapt to apartment living as long as they receive sufficient exercise each day.

The Kerry Beagle ranks as one of Ireland's oldest dog breeds, with its ancestry dating back to the late 1700s. However, it is not generally recognized as a true Beagle. Rather, this breed is more closely linked to the hound category and is thought to have played a significant role in the development of Coonhound breeds in the United States. While they excel as tenacious hunters in the field, Kerry Beagles are also cherished for their loving and gentle demeanor at home, making them excellent companions for families. They can serve effectively as watchdogs, but their energetic nature and tendency to be vocal may not be ideal for smaller living environments, such as apartments.

The Schapendoes is a medium-sized sheepdog celebrated for its keen intelligence and strong work ethic. To flourish in a household setting, this breed thrives on having a job to do, whether it’s retrieving the newspaper or organizing its toys. Hailing from the Netherlands, the Schapendoes requires consistent exercise and continuous training to develop into a well-adjusted family pet. This breed is especially friendly with children and tends to get along well with other dogs, as well as smaller pets like cats and ferrets. Furthermore, the Schapendoes excels in a variety of canine sports, such as agility, dock diving, and herding.

The Ariegeois is a large scent hound renowned for its exceptionally friendly temperament. While not widely known beyond France, these dogs are appreciated for their easygoing nature, particularly in social situations, except when it comes to hunting. With a strong history as pack animals, they generally show little aggression towards other dogs and are often welcoming, even to strangers, which unfortunately diminishes their effectiveness as guard dogs. This breed is affectionate and loyal, thriving in a family environment. Although they possess a high energy level, they are adaptable and will join in on whatever activities the group is involved in, even if it means simply lounging together. However, it’s crucial to ensure they get regular exercise. As larger, athletic dogs, their well-being relies on sufficient physical activity. When not engaged in coursing or driving, they delight in running or having access to open spaces where they can sprint freely, reminiscent of their ancestral roles in chasing. They are relatively easy to train, particularly when a strong bond exists with their owner, and once trained, they respond effectively to commands.

Mini St. Bernards are available in two distinct sizes. The smaller variant, known as the Micro, typically weighs around 25 pounds, while the larger Nehi averages about 50 pounds. Their coats can differ in texture, ranging from dense and wavy to silky and straight, with a medium length that displays a diverse palette of colors such as black, brown, red, cream, fawn, brindle, blue, silver, and white. Renowned for their gentle and affectionate demeanor, Mini St. Bernards are eager to please and generally respond well to training. However, they may show a bit of stubbornness, making it important to maintain consistent firmness during training sessions. These dogs are friendly and sociable, getting along well with everyone, including children and other pets, which makes them excellent companions for families.

The Beardoodle is a medium-sized dog breed that emerges from the combination of a Bearded Collie and a Poodle. Adult Beardoodles typically weigh around 50 pounds and stand approximately 21 inches tall. Their coats are long and thick, often appearing in various shades such as black, brown, or blue. Renowned for their friendly disposition, Beardoodles are wonderful family companions and usually get along well with both children and other pets. To foster positive interactions with other animals and visitors, early socialization is crucial. These dogs are known for their intelligence, bravery, and ease of training, making them relatively straightforward to teach. However, they do need plenty of exercise to keep them engaged and prevent boredom.

The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog is distinctive for its naturally short tail, which is never altered through docking. This breed exhibits remarkable herding instincts, adeptly guiding cattle as they are relocated. Renowned for their loyalty and courage, these dogs are also quite protective, often displaying caution around strangers approaching their home or livestock. Although closely related to the Australian Cattle Dog, the Stumpy Tail variety is noted for its lighter build and longer legs. To develop a reliable and hardworking companion for cattle herding, it is crucial to prioritize early socialization and training.