Looking for a pup that’s the perfect mix of charm, brains, and just the right size? Welcome to the world of designer medium dog breeds—a space where personality meets purpose in the cutest ways imaginable. These aren’t your average mutts or purebreds; they’re intentional crosses made to blend the best traits from two amazing parents. Think of them as nature’s little experiments… but with wagging tails and irresistible eyes.
Why go designer? Well, imagine having a dog that’s smart, social, easy to train, and won’t bulldoze your living room—or your budget. Medium-sized hybrids often hit that sweet spot between too small to keep up and too large to manage. And the variety? Endless. Whether you want a jogging buddy or a Netflix snuggler, there’s one out there tailored for your vibe.
So, what makes these hybrid pups so special? Let’s dive into the fluff and find out what all the fuss is about!
Designer Medium Dog Breeds
1. Beabull
A delightful blend of a laid-back couch potato and a spirited adventurer, the beabull-a loveable mix of beagle and bulldog-brings the best of both worlds. This pup brings together two totally different energy levels, and somehow, it works.
Despite their medium size, Beabulls have a strong, muscular build, thanks to their Bulldog side. But also they’re softies at heart. They’re affectionate, crave attention, and love snuggling just as much as chasing scents in the backyard. They’re the type to bulldoze into your lap like they weigh ten pounds.
Beabulls can be a little stubborn, which makes training an adventure. But with consistency and lots of praise (and snacks—let’s be real), they catch on fast. They’re people-pleasers under that independent streak, and they love being part of the action. Planning to train one? Patience pays off.
Beabulls are famously friendly and do well in family settings. They might not win awards for speed or agility, but they’ll win over your toddler with goofy faces and tail wags. Just be mindful—they can get a little jealous if they’re not the center of attention. Who can blame them?
Beabulls do have a mischievous side. Leave them alone too long, and they might redecorate your house with pillow stuffing. They’re social dogs, not loners. Crate training and interactive toys? Total game-changers here. These dogs want fun and connection, not quiet and solitude.
Quick Fun Fact: Some Beabulls have the snootiest snore you’ve ever heard—it’s like a tiny freight train curled up on your couch. Endearing or annoying? Depends on your sleep schedule!
2. Gollie
What do you get when you cross a Golden Retriever with a Border Collie? A Gollie—and yep, it’s exactly as amazing as it sounds. Imagine a dog with the sweetness of a Golden and the high IQ of a Border Collie. That’s a pretty epic combo if you ask us.
These medium-sized stunners are not just lookers—they’ve got brains to back it up. Gollies thrive on mental stimulation. Want a dog that learns tricks like it’s a party game? This one’s your star. Agility, obedience, scent work—you name it, the Gollie’s game. They love having a job, even if it’s just carrying the mail from the porch.
Temperament-wise, they’re people pleasers to the core. Gollies bond fast and hard with their humans. They’ll shadow you around the house like a four-legged assistant manager, making sure everything runs smoothly. They’re loyal, devoted, watchful, and just the right amount of clingy, without being overwhelming.
Gollies are surprisingly intuitive. They can sense your moods and often act accordingly. Feeling low? They’ll nuzzle in for comfort. Ready to play? They’ll bounce like they’ve got springs for paws. It’s like they’ve got emotional radar.
Their coats can vary, but most Gollies have a feathery, double-layered fluff that needs regular brushing, especially if they inherit the Collie’s longer fur. Good news? They’re not heavy shedders year-round. Bad news? During spring, your vacuum’s going to get a workout.
3. Beaglemation
Beaglemation is a dog that’s part detective, part goofball, and wrapped in Dalmatian spots. A bold blend of the curious Beagle and the sleek, energetic Dalmatian. It’s like someone mashed together a tracking hound and a firehouse mascot… and gave it zoomies.
Let’s get one thing straight—these dogs are built for movement. Beaglemations love a good chase, a fast game of fetch, or a morning jog that leaves you breathless. They’re athletic without being oversized, making them ideal for active families who want adventure without the giant dog vibe.
Unlike many scent hounds, Beaglemations also pack a strong visual awareness thanks to the Dalmatian genes. Translation? They don’t just sniff out fun—they see it coming. They’re hyper-aware of their surroundings, which makes them excellent watchdogs without being overly aggressive.
Now, these pups are clever—but with a twist. They’re not just intelligent dogs, they’re independent and gentle. Training one takes a bit of creative flair. Repetition bores them, so keep sessions short, upbeat, and reward-heavy. Oh, and don’t be surprised if they try to outsmart you.
Their personality is all sunshine and spark. Beaglemations are playful, energetic, and always ready to turn a dull moment into a game. They thrive in homes where there’s lots of interaction and mental stimulation. Solo apartment life? Probably not their scene—unless you’re home a lot.
Quick Fun Fact: Beaglemations are known for their signature “bay-and-bark” combo—a melodic, howl-like sound that’s oddly charming… until it’s 6 a.m. and they’re alerting you to a squirrel sighting.
4. Ba-Shar
Mix a Basset Hound with a Shar-Pei, and what do you get? A Ba-Shar—a droopy-faced philosopher who’s equal parts laid-back and loyal. One glance at that furrowed little forehead and you know there’s a deep thinker under those folds. Or maybe they’re just wondering when the next snack is coming.
Ba-Shar tends to be stocky and low to the ground, with the signature long body of a Basset and the dense, velvety coat of a Shar-Pei. That unique build gives them a bit of a comedic wobble when they walk, but don’t be fooled—they’ve got a surprisingly strong and tough presence and tons of charm.
Personality-wise, Ba-Shar are thoughtful and reserved—but not antisocial. They’re more of the “watch and evaluate” type. They’ll sit back, observe the room, and then decide who’s worthy of their affection. Once you’re in? You’re in for life. These dogs don’t love lightly.
They’re also impressively alert without being yappy. If something’s off, they’ll let you know, but they don’t just bark at leaves blowing across the porch. That quiet confidence makes them great for folks who want a calm but protective dog around the house.
Training can be a mixed bag. The Basset part tends to follow its nose, while the Shar-Pei half can be… let’s say “independent.” But that doesn’t mean they’re impossible—it just means you’ve got to work with their style. Keep it positive, and most importantly, keep it short and sweet.
5. Boxpei
Ever seen a dog that looks like it could be a bodyguard… but acts like a marshmallow? That’s the Boxpei—a striking mix of Boxer and Shar-Pei. With their broad chests, signature wrinkles, and soulful eyes, Boxpeis turn heads and win hearts fast.
Temperament-wise, Boxpeis are loyal to the bone. They form deep bonds with their people and often pick “their person” to stick closest to. Don’t be surprised if they become your shadow, from the kitchen to the bathroom. Yep, zero personal space.
Boxpeis are alert and naturally protective. They don’t bark without reason, but they’re quick to stand between you and something unfamiliar. That Boxer confidence, combined with the Shar-Pei’s watchfulness, makes them pretty solid watchdogs… minus the drama.
When it comes to energy, they’re balanced. They’re active enough to enjoy fetch, long walks, and backyard zoomies, but they don’t need constant motion. A couple of solid activity bursts a day usually keep them happy. So, are they couch potatoes? Nah—but they do love a good snooze.
Socialization is key with this breed. Thanks to their naturally cautious nature, early exposure to people, pets, and new environments helps them stay confident rather than wary. Got kids? With the right upbringing, Boxpeis are gentle, patient, and protective big siblings in dog form.
6. Bull Boxer
Think a dog can’t be both a goofball and a powerhouse? The Bull Boxer, a mix of Bulldog and Boxer, says otherwise. With their solid frame and expressive faces, they look like they’re all business—but don’t let that fool you. These dogs are basically oversized puppies in disguise.
They’ve got a strong, athletic build, compact but muscular, with a big ol’ head that usually steals the show. Their face might come with classic Boxer jowls or a Bulldog’s squishy mug—and either way, they’re totally irresistible. Add in their boundless enthusiasm and, well, prepare for full-speed zoomies in your living room.
Bull Boxers are super affectionate. They crave closeness and will absolutely plop their 50-pound body across your lap like they’re a chihuahua. Ever tried watching a movie with a Bulldog-Boxer mix snoring into your popcorn? It’s a whole experience.
Now, don’t confuse affection with chill. These dogs have energy. They need daily exercise—walks, fetch, tug-of-war, or even agility training to burn off their steam. Skip the workouts, and they’ll find their own entertainment… which might include shoe reconstruction. Not ideal, right?
Bull Boxers usually thrive in family settings. This breed is gentle, tolerant, and playful—plus, they adore being in the middle of the action. Just be mindful of their strength during play. One excited bounce and your toddler’s on the floor—laughing, but still.
7. Bassador
What happens when you take the floppy-eared, low-slung charm of a Basset Hound and mix it with the happy-go-lucky spirit of a Labrador? You get the Bassador—a medium-sized dog with short legs, a wide grin, and a whole lot of personality.
First thing you’ll notice? That body. Bassador has the unmistakable elongated build of a Basset with the athletic frame of a Lab, resulting in a dog that looks like a Labrador that forgot to grow legs. It’s weirdly adorable, and yes, people will stop you to ask what kind of dog you’ve got.
They’re affectionate but not clingy. Bassador enjoys being near you, but they’re also perfectly content chilling in their own space. They don’t need constant attention, which makes them a great match for laid-back families or individuals who want a buddy, not a shadow.
Now here’s something fun: Bassador often has a comically expressive face. Big eyes, floppy ears, and a head tilt that makes you question all your life decisions. They know how to work a crowd, especially when there’s food involved. Sneaky? Absolutely.
Training can be… let’s say, creative. Labs are famously eager, but Bassets? Not so much. The result is a dog that knows what you’re asking, but may take their sweet time deciding if it’s worth doing. Keep sessions upbeat and always reward with treats (their true love language).
Quick Fun Fact: Some Bassadors “sing.” That’s right—thanks to their hound heritage, they may let out long, melodious howls when they’re excited… or just feeling dramatic.
Conclusion
When it comes to the perfect family dog, these popular designer dog breeds truly hit the sweet spot. These intelligent hybrids bring together the best of their purebred dog parent breeds, offering everything from the curly or scruffy coat of a Poodle parent to the sweet, affectionate nature of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or a Labrador Retriever. Whether you’re drawn to a mixed breed with a hypoallergenic coat or a companion dog with a regal and spunky nature, there’s a designer breed out there to match your lifestyle.
Some of these wonderful family pets are known for their distinctive large golden ears, silky coats, or sport short Lab coats, while others, like those with curly coats inherited from the Miniature Poodle or Bichon Frise, make fantastic hypoallergenic pups. These lovely pups are not only adorable but also often easy to train, highly energetic dogs who thrive on positive attention and playful interaction with older children and other animals. It’s no surprise that many were originally bred for purposes like guide dogs or service dog work!
Whether you’re considering a Golden and Labrador Retriever, a Pomeranian and Siberian Husky, or even a Shih Tzu mix, these hybrid dogs combine the best of both worlds. With roots in breeds like the Yorkshire Terrier, Golden Retriever, Cocker Spaniel, and Siberian Husky, they’re often highly trainable breeds with the easy-going Labrador personality or fun-loving Poodle charm. From tiny pups that generally sport Chihuahua bodies to medium-sized dogs that are energetic, affectionate, and full of personality, these designer dogs truly redefine dog ownership. They’re more than just a trend—they’re the future of great family dogs.
