Are you a keen dog lover looking for a pup who fits your lifestyle and is also the perfect cuddle companion? You have come to the right place because we have gathered small to medium dog breeds that weigh 45 pounds or less.
They are ideal companions, portable, and have a fun-loving personality that will never make you feel bored. These may be small dogs, but have big dog personality traits. These medium breeds are ideal for people living in shared spaces, apartments, or small homes.
Read on to learn more about these medium-breed dogs, their temperament, exercise and mental stimulation needs, and how you can cater to these furry friends to ensure they remain obedient family companions.
Top Dog Breeds Under 45 Pounds: Find Your Perfect Match
1. Dachshund
Short-legged, long-bodied, wiener dog breed, Dachshunds are bold canines with a vivacious personality. These canines weigh around 16-32 pounds for their standard size. Dachshunds are loyal and get along well with everyone, which helps them form strong bonds with their loved ones.
They are playful and affectionate dogs, but can be a bit stubborn at times. This is why these little canines require early socialization and obedience training so they grow up to be well-behaved pups. They are alert and intelligent, which is why they are quite aware of their surroundings. They bark to alert their owners if something isn’t right.
Considering their small size, Dachshunds are a high-energy breed; thus, giving them daily exercise is a must to keep them happy and satisfied.
According to PDSA, they need at least an hour of physical stimulation every day to stay healthy. Once their energy needs are met, they like nothing more than curling up against their pet parents and cuddling to sleep.
2. English Cocker Spaniel
A cheerful and affectionate-natured breed, English Cocker Spaniels are an ideal medium-sized dog breed for those who want a canine with a charming and happy personality. They have an eager-to-please attitude, which makes them the most wonderful pets at home.
Cocker Spaniels are famous as hunting dogs and for retrieving game animals. They are compact with a balanced body structure, which makes them both sturdy and agile. Cocker Spaniels have an easy-going and friendly nature around everyone. They even get along well with other pets in the vicinity without getting aggressive.
Because they are sporting dogs, daily exercise is a must to ensure optimal physical and mental health. These canines have high hunting instincts, which might get them to chase every small prey that comes into sight.
Keeping them on a leash during walks is recommended to prevent them from running off. They have a pet parent-pleasing attitude, which makes the training process much easier.
3. Whippet
A British sight hound breed, Whippets are gentle and affectionate canines with a calm temperament. While they stay calm and in control indoors, they tend to be the most full of energy dogs outside. These canines were originally bred for hunting and racing dogs which is why they have a high prey drive and speed.
They may run off chasing small prey, which is why obedience training and socialization are essential to keep them in control. They weigh around 25-40 pounds and have a sleek and slender body with very low body fat.
These canines are so petite that they are not very fond of cold climates and are always up for a cuddle in a warm bed beside their pet parents. They are free of body odor, which is a win-win considering they love sitting on the couch and bed rather than the cold floor.
4. Brittany
Also known as the Breton Spaniel, the Brittany is a French gun dog that was bred for hunting birds. Brittany is a bright and friendly breed that is full of energy. They get along well with children and do not mind roughhousing with them.
These medium dog breeds are eager to please and enjoy training sessions as they get to learn new tricks. They don’t mind the apartment life as long as their energy needs are being met. These dogs prefer active households where their owners take them out for physical and mental stimulation, and can also take them for hunting.
Daily exercise is a must for these medium dog breeds; otherwise, they may get bored and show unwanted behaviors. Brittany has a double coat that is designed not to hold any dirt or water. The breed sheds in warmer climates, but still has very mediocre grooming needs. Weekly brushing to clean the coat is more than enough.
5. Pumi
Charming and cutesy. Pumi are energetic herding dogs. They are known for their intelligence, agility, and boldness. According to the American Kennel Club, these medium dog breeds are compact, quick, and fearless. They move sheep flocks with such perfection through narrow spaces.
Because of their friendly and charming look, it’s sometimes hard to believe these medium sized breed can do such tough work. They are very protective of their human families and are likely to bark to alert their owner rather than getting aggressive because of their friendly nature.
They are fine sharing their space with other dogs or pets as long as they are trained and socialized from an early age. They love playing fetch and puzzle toys, as it prevents them from getting bored. With ample exercise and human companionship, these dogs thrive.
6. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Strong, athletic, and lively little herding breed, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are the most famous breed not because of how great they are as pets, but because they are the most beloved pet of Queen Elizabeth II, who owned more than 30 royal Corgis.
Corgis are small, smart dogs who love human company. They have a spunky personality and are highly adaptable, which makes them best suited for any living situation. They have a large dog personality in a small body. Because of their easy-going nature, they are highly trainable dogs and love learning new tricks.
Corgis require mental and physical stimulation daily as a way to keep them sane. They not only love spending time with the owners but also like mental challenges that can keep their minds sharp and them free of boredom.
7. Boykin Spaniel
A medium dog breed who is known for its flushing and retrieving abilities, Boykin Spaniels were bred for hunting wild turkey and ducks in the Wateree River swamps of South Carolina. They are known for their affectionate nature, which not only makes them an ideal working breed but also a great family pet.
Boykin Spaniels weigh around 30-38 pounds, which is perfect for dog lovers living in smaller spaces, as these canines won’t take up much space. They are one of the most favorite hunting companions for the regulars, as they don’t mind the heat. They can cover long distances without getting tired easily.
Boykins are healthy individual dogs, but pet parents must focus on their diet. This medium dog breed is prone to obesity, and excessive weight gain can cause heart problems and joint issues. Ensure regular exercise and portion-controlled feeds to prevent obesity in these dogs.
8. Miniature American Shepherd
This dog has to be the cutest little thing you will ever come across. Miniature American Shepherds resemble small Australian Shepherds. They may be compact in size but have high herding instincts, and are bright and self-motivated workers.
Purina calls them an athlete in a small package, and they truly are. They are enthusiastic, intelligent, and have a willing-to-please attitude. They require daily physical and mental exercise to stay healthy and happy. These medium-sized dogs are friendly, and they get along well with everyone at home but may be wary of strangers.
They may be small in size, but they are great guardians. They are alert and bark to make their owners aware if something isn’t right. Other than hunting and being good at finishing tasks, these medium-sized dogs are outdoorsy. They love hiking and camping, so if you’re someone who loves adventures, this medium dog breed is the best choice for you.
9. Shetland Sheepdog
Also known as Shelties, Shetland Sheepdogs are a herding medium-sized dog that is extremely intelligent and quick at learning new cues. They are gentle, sweet, and have a pleasing personality. Shelties are playful and affectionate, which makes them the perfect family pets.
Though they get along well with everyone at home, they’re not quite fond of strangers. They are great watchdogs, not aggressive, but bark to alert their owners if something is not right. They are active working dogs and require moderate exercise to stay happy and healthy.
This medium-sized dog loves staying close to its owners. They are even called velcro dogs for needing to be on their owner’s side at all times. They can do well in small apartments or homes as long as they are exercised well.
10. American Eskimo Dog
Strikingly clever face appearance and a total ball of snow, American Eskimo dogs are dogs who are labelled as beauty with brains. Eskies are neither shy nor aggressive. They are friendly around family and alert around strangers.
They move boldly with an agile gait. They are friendly and social animals, but when they aren’t given due attention and or feel neglected, that is when they start to show unwanted behavioral traits. They are the most trainable medium-sized dogs, and the phrase eager to please was basically made for these pups.
Eskimos are active, eager to learn, and playful. They love outdoor adventures and make excellent family pets. These medium-sized dogs are kid-friendly and love spending time with them. Though their coat is easy to maintain, they are constant shedders and need to be brushed several times a week to keep looking their best.
Conclusion
Looking for a medium-sized breed dog? This article has got you covered. All the breeds mentioned are the best options you will ever come across. All you need to do is choose the right breed according to your lifestyle, and you’re all set.
These dogs prove that you don’t need a large dog or a luxury dog to feel the love. These dogs come with all the pawsitivity you will ever need.
