The breed · Sizes
We use four practical size categories when discussing puppies: Mini, Small, Medium and Large. These are our guide labels, not a claim that every registry uses the same categories. An estimate can be discussed from around the first month and reviewed as the puppy grows.
If you are only just getting to know the breed, start with the breed description. This page goes into one of the questions we hear most: how much room will the dog take up in your life? We go through the four sizes with heights and weights, clear up what "Cobberdog Mini" really means, and explain how we estimate size from the first month.
Our practical size guide
The illustration shows the four guide categories we use with families. The figures are approximate points of reference for our programme, not fixed boundaries or an official universal size standard.
Mini
around 35 centimetres at the shoulder and around 6 kilograms
Small
around 42 centimetres at the shoulder and around 12 kilograms
Medium
around 56 centimetres at the shoulder and around 22 kilograms
Large
more than 56 centimetres at the shoulder
Our Mini guide is around 35 cm at the shoulder and 6 kg as an adult (about 14 in and 13 lb). Small is around 42 cm and 12 kg (16.5 in and 26 lb), and Medium around 56 cm and 22 kg (22 in and 48 lb). Large refers to dogs above our Medium guide; the expected range is discussed for the particular puppy.
Mini and Small are labels we use within the same line. They help describe an estimated adult size rather than separate breeds. Growth and family history provide more information than the label alone.
For an individual puppy, ask for the current estimate and the parents’ sizes. A broad range across the breed is less useful than the information for that litter.
The estimate
A puppy's size cannot be guaranteed, but it can be estimated, and we do that from the first month of life. We look at three things: the size of the parents and of their lines, which we have known for years; the puppy's weight and growth curve compared with its littermates; and the experience of many litters from the same lines. What comes out of that is a range, not a number.
We explain the estimated range and review it as the puppy develops. Growth can vary between littermates, so leave some flexibility when planning space, equipment and travel.
Photographs, including the illustrative images on this site, are not a scale drawing of your future dog. Ask for current measurements and an estimate when discussing a specific puppy.
Choosing
No size is better than another. What matters is what suits your home, your daily routine and your strength. A few pointers from our conversations with families in different countries.
Consider whether you can comfortably carry the expected adult weight when necessary, the space available for travel and the puppy’s individual activity needs. Small size does not remove the need for exercise, training or companionship.
Plan for the estimated adult weight when choosing a car restraint, resting space and handling arrangements. Whether a particular dog suits a flat or an active routine also depends on health, temperament and daily care.
Check practical handling, access to your home and space for safe transport. A garden does not replace daily activity or training, and a large dog is not automatically unsuitable for a smaller home.
Size alone does not predict temperament or coat texture. Assess each puppy individually. See Coat and allergies for care and Price and reservation for the commercial details.
The next step
Flat or house, lift or stairs, car or public transport, children or not: with those details we can recommend a size and tell you which puppies in that size are here or expected. The price depends on size too; the figures are under Price and reservation.