Plenty of us decided to welcome new four-legged friends into our homes in the last few years – according to the Kennel Club figures dog ownership has soared to record levels.
There are a whopping 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
One thing to consider is that some dogs need far more exercise than others – with the likes of the Border Collie requiring several walks a day and plenty of outdoor space at home.
Meanwhile, other types prefer to spend most of their time on the couch or in front of the fire and won’t thank you for much more than a quick trot around the park.
But if you are looking for the best of both worlds, you should consider a medium energy dog – that will keep up with you on outdoor adventures but will also be happy to have lazy days accompanying you as you binge on the latest television boxset.
Here are 10 breeds of the breeds that fit the bill.
5. Keeshound
The fluffy Keeshound is both medium-sized and medium energy, with moderate daily exercise enough to keep them in shape. They made great family pets too - getting on well with all ages. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. Boston Terrier
Quite a few of the Terrier breeds fit firmly into the high energy category, but the Boston Terrier is more chilled than many of its cousins. Well known for being playful, they'll happy relax at home once they've had their daily dose of adventure. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
7. Pomeranian
Technically the Pomeranian is quite a high energy dog, but they'll happily expend most of it careering around their home without any need for their owner to get involved. Otherwise 30 minutes or so of play and a good walk will do them just fine Photo: Canva/Getty Images
8. Cocker Spaniels
Loyal and playful, the Cocker Spaniels just want to be with their owner no matter what they are doing - whether it's throwing a ball in the park or cuddled up on the sofa. Photo: Canva/Getty Images