The energy level of a dog varies from breed to breed. Some are athletic and made to run, some are lazier dogs that love to snooze and lay around. The energy level in your dog should match the energy level of you, so you can meet all of their demands.
So what about dogs with medium energy for us semi-active people? There are plenty of breeds that have the perfect level of medium energy.
They make good companions for those who want to both lay around and go on occasional walks. Considering the following dogs may bring the perfect balance to your daily life.
12 Different Dogs With Medium Energy
One of the most important factors of having a dog is making sure that they fit into your lifestyle. You wouldn’t want a super active dog if you’re not able to give them the outdoor time they need, or vice versa. So if you’re somewhere in the middle, these breeds are right for you!
1. Newfoundland Dog
Average Lifespan: 9-10 years
Average Size: 100-150 pounds
Coat: medium, coarse
Newfoundland Dogs, nicknamed “Newfie’s,” became popular in Canada in the 1800’s as fisherman dogs. Newfie’s have partially webbed feet, making them excellent swimmers. They were often kept aboard ships because they had a knack for being able to pull men who fell overboard back ashore.
Newfie’s have been loved throughout history. Lewis and Clark had a Newfoundland named “Seaman” along with them on their journey. They have gained a reputation as a “nanny dog” because they are gentle with children.
These dogs enjoy a day indoors laying around with their family. However, they should also get at least 30 minutes of exercise time daily. Newfie’s love to be by your side, whether that’s on the couch or a day at the lake!
2. Corgi
Average Lifespan: 12-13 years
Average Size: 20-30 pounds
Coat: short, thick
There are two distinct Corgi breeds that can both be considered dogs with medium energy. We have the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. The Cardigan is one of the oldest breeds from Britain.
Both were bred to be cattle dogs with short legs to nip at the ankles of cattle. They were considered the same breed for most of their history, up until 1934 when the Pembroke was declared its own breed.
A distinguishable difference between the two can be found in their ears, Cardigans have rounded ears while Pembroke’s have pointy ears. Both breeds are good lap dogs and love to curl up next to you. They are social dogs, so a few walks around the block will do them good.
3. Border Terrier
Average Lifespan: 12-15 years
Average Size: 11.5-15.5 pounds
Coat: short, wiry
Border Terriers were bred by shepherds in Scotland and England in order to hunt down foxes. They are fast, hard working dogs, and were continually used by farmers throughout the 1900’s.
These dogs have maintained their reputation as farm dogs and are often kept as pets by those living in the country. They are sociable and get along with other dogs, as well as humans. They are low maintenance, but love spending time outdoors.
Most outdoor activities will keep them satisfied, but they are natural hunters so a leash is recommended. They will play fetch or go on runs with you, and at the end of the day you can expect them to be laying next to you.
4. Dachshund
Average Lifespan: 12-16 years
Average Size: 16-32 pounds
Coat: short, smooth
Dachshunds originate from Germany, in fact the word “dachshund” is German for “badger dog.” True to their name, they were used by Germans to drive badgers out of their dens.
These dogs are extremely independent, even stubborn at times. Despite this, they form bonds quickly with their owners and want to be around them always. They are more indoor bound than outdoor.
Even though they prefer the indoors, Dachshunds need a decent amount of exercise daily. A few short walks or a game of catch in the yard can be a good activity for both you and your Dachshund.
5. Miniature Schnauzer
Average Lifespan: 12-15 years
Average Size: 11-20 pounds
Coat: medium, wiry
Known as ratters, Miniature Schnauzers were bred to catch rats and mice. Mini Schnauzers come from their bigger relatives, the Standard Schnauzer. Although they are closely related to terrier breeds, their personality is very different.
Mini Schnauzers are very friendly and close with their owners. They are one of the top contenders in many dog shows, and one of the most adopted dogs in the United States.
Like the Border Terrier, these dogs should be kept on a leash when outdoors because they like to chase small animals. They are independent players when outdoors, but much prefer the company of their humans.
6. Mastiff
Average Lifespan: 6-10 years
Average Size: 120-230 pounds
Coat: short, coarse
Some great examples of dogs with medium energy are Mastiffs. They originate in Britain, then came to Rome when Julius Caesar was impressed with their defendence. In Rome, they would fight large beasts, and even gladiators, as entertainment.
They were also popular in England, but after World War I, it’s estimated that only 14 Mastiffs remained. They then came to the United States and were bred to be less of a fighter, and more of a lover.
Today’s Mastiffs are much lazier than the Roman fighters. They can easily live in apartments, but still need exercise daily. They are big cuddle-bugs and prefer laying around to being active.
7. Saint Bernard
Average Lifespan: 8-10 years
Average Size: 120-180 pounds
Coat: long, fluffy
The Saint Bernard comes from the Swiss Alps. They were bred to be able to withstand low temperatures and mountainous terrains in order to transport materials across the Alps.
Much like Newfoundland dogs, Saint Bernard’s are notorious “nanny dogs” for their gentleness around children. They can often be seen pulling smaller children along on a sled or cart.
Saint Bernard’s do not need a ton of exercise to be kept healthy. They are happiest doing anything that you want to do, whether that be a long hike or a frisbee session in the backyard.
8. Pomeranian
Average Lifespan: 12-16 years
Average Size: 3-7 pounds
Coat: long, thick
The tiny Pomeranian we know today was actually bred down from a much stronger breed. Their larger cousins were Arctic sled dogs, but the Pomeranians we have now were popular in Europe for being Queen Victoria’s favorite breed.
Victoria is credited for breeding the Pomeranian into the smaller version, and is mainly the reason that they continue to be popular today. Like the Mini Schnauzer, Pomeranians are top contenders in dog shows.
Because of their size, Pomeranians are happy being lap dogs. They can follow their owners around and always want to have company. They also benefit from daily walks.
9. Keeshond
Average Lifespan: 12-15 years
Average Size: 35-45 pounds
Coat: long, thick
The Keeshond has a very close history to Pomeranians, coming from sled dogs in the Arctic. They were then bred by the Dutch and kept as ship dogs.
The Keeshond has a very rich political history, becoming the face of the Dutch Patriot’s Party and used in many campaign pictures. They were often depicted as strong and courageous.
These dogs do need daily exercise, but nothing extravagant. They are more of a couch potato and great companions if you want to watch TV or read a book.
10. Golden Retriever
Average Lifespan: 10-12 years
Average Size: 55-75 pounds
Coat: long, soft
Golden Retrievers were first bred in Scotland as bird dogs. Their ancestors include many hardworking dogs, such as Irish Setters and Bloodhounds. They remain one of the most popular breeds in the United States today.
One of the most commonly known family dogs, Golden Retrievers are great with children of all ages. They are strong and sturdy, but also goofy and loving. They maintain a very free spirited and puppy-like behavior all through their adulthood.
While not as small as a Pomeranian, Goldies still want to be on your lap and next to you at all times. They do not mind laying indoors, but also thoroughly enjoy outdoor activities, such as hunting or running.
11. Boston Terrier
Average Lifespan: 11-13 years
Average Size: 12-25 pounds
Coat: short, smooth
England has a history of dogs competing in bullfights, so most terriers were bred for that purpose. The Boston Terrier is no different, and was one of the most commonly used for fighting.
Many years later, the Boston Terrier continued to be bred and eventually became the smaller breed of today. With the size reduction also came an attitude change. They are much sweeter and friendlier than they were in their fighting days.
Boston Terriers don’t like to be left alone. They will want you to accompany them everywhere, whether it’s a day in the house or a week long camping trip. They benefit from short daily walks.
12. Chow Chow
Average Lifespan: 8-12 years
Average Size: 45-70 pounds
Coat: long, dense
Chow Chows have a history rooted deep in China, all the way back to the Han Dynasty. It is thought they are predecessors to the Pomeranian. Chow Chows were typically seen at the sides of royalty.
Also similar to the Pomeranian, Chow Chows did not see popularity in Europe and the United States until after Queen Victoria owned and bred them.
One of the truer dogs with medium energy, Chow Chows do not do well in heat and like to lounge indoors on hot days. They will need some indoor exercise alongside their owners, but after a good game of catch they will snuggle up on the couch with you.
