Do you have a cat and wondering if you should get a dog? Check out our list of the best dog breeds for cats! We’ve got all the information you need to make the best decision for your feline friend.
Dogs are known to be loyal companions, and we think they make great pets for cats. Scroll down to see which breeds are the best for cats and learn more about each one!
Dogs and Cats
While dogs and cats can be different creatures, certain dog breeds get along famously with cats. If you’re considering getting a dog and having a cat at home, choosing dog breeds that are good with cats is important.
The Best Dog Breeds for Cats
The Boston Terrier
Boston Terrier, sometimes known as “Boston,” is an exception to the general rule that you should not keep Terriers with cats. Although Bostons occasionally chase the cat, this behavior usually stems from amusement rather than prey drive. The calm Boston Terrier is considerate of other animals as well as cats.
Beagle
Are Beagles good with cats? This is a question most cat owners ask. Because the owners bred it to hunt in groups, the friendly Beagle may appreciate the companionship of cats. As a result, it considers a cat sibling to be another group member.
But keep it to one Beagle; BeaglePro claims that when these dogs are together, they may develop a “pack mentality” and are more inclined to collaborate against the cat. Due to their social nature, beagles are enjoyable for the whole family, other people, and animals.
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is one of the cat-friendly dogs available today. It is a natural hunter; however, it prefers to go on dinnertime hunts rather than cat hunts. Although Basset Hounds have a generally laid-back disposition that makes them friendly to other animals, including cats, they can be resistant when being trained.
Not to mention that the Basset Hound’s laid-back personality frequently invites the cat to cuddle up next to their fuzzy companion.
Bull Dog
These large, heavy canines are undoubtedly capable of intimidating a cat if desired, but they are renowned for their kind nature. They are friendly to all other animals, and because of their laid-back nature, they probably will appreciate your cat’s companionship.
Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises make great siblings and playmates for cats because of their cheerful and amusing personalities. The Bichon Frise’s extroverted nature can be too much for a cat who prefers to be left alone. Therefore, any cat that tolerates (or participates in) this adorable canine breed’s endearing antics will embrace it and become friends with it!
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are sweet, loving dogs that love to be around people. They’re also good with cats, as long you do the introduction slowly and carefully.
Collie
These herding group members are well known for their affection toward kids. Some people may even have a passion for cats. Collies are athletic dogs that thrive when given a lot of exercise and company. They are loud canines who are typically accepting of other household pets.
Golden Retriever
The term “golden” is an excellent way to define this venerable breed, and golden retrievers are among the greatest dogs for cats. Golden Retrievers are compassionate and understanding dogs that gladly accept cats into the family.
But from an early age, you should teach this kind of dog not to pursue the cat. Once that is done, the jovial Golden Retriever and cat will undoubtedly make the ideal pair. Moreover, this dog is naturally tolerant of other people and animals!
Labrador Retriever
Exuberant Labrador Retrievers, also known as “Labs,” are lovers, not fighters. The Labrador Retriever is also a popular family dog breed that is good with cats. Labs are known for being loyal, loving, and great with children. If you’re looking for a big dog that can get along with your cat, a Lab may be the perfect breed.
Maltese
The Maltese is sure to be gentle with the cat, especially as this laid-back dog breed prefers to lounge on the couch rather than meddle with the feline’s affairs. The Maltese’s soft and kind nature, however, may be exploited by the cat.
The two can coexist peacefully if the cat agrees to refrain from making fun of the Maltese’s long hair. Thus, while introducing your cat to your Maltese, ensure you keep a close eye on them, and they will get along just fine!
Poodle
A feline buddy would get along well with the three Poodle sizes. Poodles come in toy, miniature, and standard sizes. They are intelligent dogs that you can train easily. Poodles are also good with cats and other pets. The bond between the Poodle and cat can thrive with regular walks and playtime since the energetic Poodle behaves best when it receives lots of activity.
Papillon
Although these butterfly-eared canines are comparable in size to cats, they may regard your cat as a buddy due to their joyful dispositions and curiosity. These dogs enjoy joining in on the family’s antics, even if a cat is involved.
Pug
The pinnacle of a friendly breed and another canine that gets along with cats is the Pug. Pugs and cats frequently become fast friends as long as the cat will let the Pug inside their territory. Pugs enjoy being the center of attention, so while the adults are away from the house, the kitten and Pug can interact and play.
And, because of how much they like to lounge, you won’t have to worry about them chasing your cat. Pugs are friendly and typically safe among tiny animals, including guinea pigs.
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a toy dog breed that is popular among cat lovers. This cat-friendly dog breed is known for its small size, friendly personality, and ability to get along with cats. Pomeranians are also relatively easy to care for, making them a good choice for people who want a low-maintenance pet.
Additionally, Pomeranians typically have a lot of energy and enjoy playing with toys, making them good cat companions. The Pomeranian may be a good option if you are looking for a small dog breed that is good with cats.
Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog is one of the dogs that get along with cats. Sometimes known as the “Sheltie,” it is recognized for being cat-friendly despite belonging to the herding group.
Shetland Sheepdogs are a fantastic choice for cat parents because, once they learn how to act around the cat, they will obey you due to their mellow disposition, high trainability, and friendly demeanor. A kitten sibling can also keep Shelties company and prevent them from barking when bored.
While all of these dog breeds are good with cats, it’s important to remember that each dog is an individual. Just because a breed is known for being good with cats doesn’t mean that every dog of that breed will get along with your feline friend.
It’s always best to meet a potential new dog before bringing him home to ensure that he’s a good fit for your family – cat included!
The Worst Dog Breeds for Cats
Australian Cattle Dog
These dogs belong to a highly energetic and intellectual breed. They are constantly prepared and willing to work nonstop. They have enough power, agility, and bravery to manage and move even the most resistant cattle effortlessly.
Although they are excellent problem solvers, they also require a home activity to keep them occupied and out of trouble. They might tolerate a cat in particular situations, but only if you raise them around cats. Due to their intense prey drive, they do, however, survive better in cat-free settings.
Afghanistan Hound
These natural hunters used to hunt wolves, rabbits, and the occasional snow leopard due to their speed and strength when taking down prey. They also possess the endurance needed to continue difficult pursuits for extended periods.
The Afghan Hound is at the top of the list of dog breeds that aren’t good with cats because they’re known for having a strong interest in chasing them. With their incredible, silky hair, they make exceptional show dogs, and although they require a lot of regular care to keep their lovely coats, their owners adore them as the ideal companion dogs—just not in houses with cats.
Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier breed is particularly unique. They can appear to be as peaceful as a small lamb, yet they can also have a propensity to be vicious and have no qualms about attacking and murdering another animal. Even other canines of the same size fall within this category.
Naturally, murdering smaller creatures like cats is nothing new for them. They are also exceedingly swift, like whippets, so there isn’t much you can do to stop them from pursuing prey once they make that decision. They can be taught not to hurt your cat if you introduce them to it very young.
Nevertheless, even if your Bedlington Terrier grows to enjoy Miss Kitty, it doesn’t mean that other cats are safe with him. It might genuinely adore your cat, but any other cat in the area might be considered dinner.
The Greyhound
Greyhounds are the quickest canines in the world, designed to chase small prey; they are certainly not the best addition to any cat-loving family. While some Greyhounds chase small animals out of instinct, others can readily pick up the skill of getting along with cats.
The idea that all Greyhounds will attack cats as soon as they have the chance and that they can’t possibly coexist peacefully is a prevalent misunderstanding. Indeed, you shouldn’t trust just a small percentage of former racing Greyhounds with cats, but it’s also true that roughly 20% of them won’t think twice about killing your cat, and in all honesty, that’s 20% too many.
Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds aren’t as quick as their well-known cousin, but that doesn’t mean they’d make the best cat companions. Your cat might quickly become their next meal since they also hunt small game. Italian greyhounds are often relatively docile and do best in pleasant, calm situations.
Still, if they see a small animal running swiftly, they tend to act according to their natural inclinations. However, how well cats get along with other animals mostly depends on how their owners have socialized and taught them.
If you introduce your cat and Italian Greyhound from a young age, they will have the chance to grow up together, and your dog will eventually regard your cat as a companion instead of food.
Irish Wolfhound
The Irish wolfhounds are one of the tallest dog breeds in the world, but they also make wonderful family pets. They only want to play and be friends with everyone they meet. However, they are also sighthounds employed for hunting and other purposes. This means they view cats and other small animals as prey they must kill.
You won’t have a good chance of stopping your Irish wolfhound from pursuing what it perceives to be prey because of its powerful build and size. That implies that Miss Kitty might experience perpetual worry and impending peril.
However, some Irish Wolfhounds may prefer living with cats depending on how you raised them. Even then, it’s impossible to predict if they’ll ever attack your cat. The wolfhound’s temperament and personality largely determine the bond’s character. Since each person is unique, it is impossible to predict how they would respond when a cat moves into their home.
Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers are also small dogs with a big attitude. They’re very active and full of energy, which can sometimes result in them chasing and bothering cats. If you have a Jack Russell and a cat, it’s best to keep them apart to avoid unwanted conflicts.
Pharaoh Hound
Pharaoh Hounds are devoted canines. Since they have been hunting rabbits for years, they have acquired a persistent hunting drive that could accidentally confuse them and make your poor defenseless cat appear to be a target. The two typically can’t get along, and your Pharaoh Hound may need a lot of training to overcome their innate tendencies.
Therefore, don’t try to combine your dog and cat if you didn’t raise them together. That kind of encounter might easily end badly, to put it mildly. You should take certain safety measures if you didn’t raise them together and appear to be close friends.
Avoid letting them play chase since your cat can get wounded or worse. Please don’t leave them alone together either. Give them separate rooms when you have to leave the house, even if they are buddies.
The Schipperke
Schipperkes are very energetic dogs bred to be vermin and watchdog hunters. They adore getting involved in events around them. If you don’t teach them to avoid it, they tend to start barking.
This is mainly because they are known to be watchdogs. When they are tiny puppies, obedience training can help with this problem. They gladly participate in agility exercises and have a high degree of adaptability to city and rural life.
Besides weekly brushings and sporadic washes, this breed doesn’t need much maintenance. Schipperkes are best, however, when you nurture them in a cat-free environment because of their strong sense of hunting.
The Smooth Fox Terrier
Farmers who required help eliminating pests and chasing foxes out of their burrows originally kept these members of the terrier family as pets. Even though they aren’t for hunting anymore, they have managed to maintain their early enthusiasm and tenacity.
They are a bold and intelligent breed that adores playing games and needs frequent exercise to keep up with their incredibly energetic personalities. They have a propensity to be very guarded, and they will bark at visitors. Although Smooth Fox Terriers are excellent watchdogs, their high prey drive makes them unsuitable for homes with cats.
The Standard Schnauzer
This breed was developed in Germany to protect households and cattle by cleaning up the farmyards of vermin. They are kind and affectionate, especially around kids. They frequently exhibit both high intelligence and powerful personalities.
Schnauzers require daily exercise and obedience training. Additionally, because of their fearlessness and strong predatory instinct, they shouldn’t live with any form of a small pet, even cats.
The Samoyed
The Samoyed is extremely cute and cuddly. They may even appear to be large toys, but they are Siberian working dogs with a high hunting drive and a powerful herding instinct. They unquestionably make an incredibly adorable family pet.
They adore everyone, but will your cat be their best friend, or will it appear to be prey? Because everyone is unique, it is necessary to examine your specific issue personally. While some Samoyeds tend to adore young kittens unconditionally, others may view them as their next meal.
You can never be sure that your cat is truly protected, which is horrible. Unfortunately, you can never be completely certain that your cat is truly protected. Therefore, even though most Samoyeds who have grown up with cats love them, their innate instincts and prey drive may suddenly surface at any point in their life.
Siberian Husky
These dogs are beautiful and known for being quite needy. One of the reasons they are not advised for adoption by novice dog owners or by any family with other small pets, particularly cats, is because of this.
They have a propensity to chase those little animals because of their hunting instinct, and Miss Kitty would be no exception. They might become best friends if they are adopted as puppies and kittens because, essentially, if you raise them together, your dog will have become used to living with your cat, and at the same time, your cat won’t see Fido as a threat.
It will be your responsibility to allow them to get to know one another in a cat- and dog-friendly setting while also promoting engagement and good conduct.
Scottish Deerhound
Despite being a colossal breed, Scottish Deerhounds are pretty docile and devoted to their owners. Cats, however, not so much. They are strong hunters with a strong desire to catch prey, which could seriously threaten your family cat.
They need a firm touch from an experienced owner, just like other giant breeds. They must be under your supervision to prevent undesirable behavior, like murdering cats, from occurring.
Even while you could train him to become a devoted companion to your cat, this breed has the potential to view everyone else as fine meat. Additionally, you might never be able to train your cat and Scottish deerhound to live in harmony unless you nurture them together.
Shih Tzu
The handsome Shih Tzu, often known as the “Chinese Lion Dog,” is a spirited youngster who adores people and constantly looks for much of the same in return. They have a reputation for being amiable tiny canines who generally get along well with other animals.
They also tend to feel threatened by the presence of another pet in their home. This cute breed, you see, has a strong need to be the focus of attention. When another animal, especially a cat, steals the show, they become highly displeased and envious.
A Shih Tzu may injure their feelings if they feel ignored, even though they may not harm another creature. This can result in actual misery for the Shih Tzu. You must gradually introduce them to a new family member to ensure they get along. And it’s best to avoid trying to house a Shih Tzu and a cat together unless you have much time to dedicate to this task.
Toy Manchester Terrier
Because the owners raised them to hunt rats and mice, this breed has acquired the “rat terrier.” They are both a toy breed and a terrier in appearance, making them wonderful family pets and devoted companions who enjoy making their owners happy.
They tend to be highly envious, too, and utterly loathe to share their people with other animals. Additionally, they have no particular affinity for cats, and you should not trust them with any little fuzzy creatures.
They would still be envious of your cat and wreak havoc on your house, even if you were to subdue their dominating hunting tendencies properly. Rather than enjoying your lovely pets, you would have to put up with two extremely sad animals that can’t stand each other and probably never will.
Whippet
There are various medium-sized sighthound breeds, and this particular one is well known for being the fastest domesticated animal in its weight range. They can travel at up to 35 mph (56 kph) of speeds, which is quite fast for a dog.
This is why the breed in question originated from England as a race dog and rabbit courser. However, this implies that they have the innate urge to chase after anything furry and little, including cats.
They also make excellent house dogs and, although being true natural athletes when racing, are somewhat dignified and quiet when at home. However, they shouldn’t be kept in households with cats because they tend to chase the cats and, because of their speed, frequently capture them.
Weimaraner
When dogs are mainly for hunting, one thing you can always bet on is that they don’t get along with any other animals, especially cats. The Weimaraner is no different. Even though they make fantastic dogs and are skilled at showing you and your family a lot of love, your cat will never be a friend of theirs.
Sadly, even a Weimaraner grown up among cats can suddenly realize that your cat is nothing more to them than a meal. They can’t go past their fundamental nature because they are for hunting and killing their prey. The risk is too great, don’t you think? Even though cats and Weimaraners have made some great connections.
If your dog attacked your cat, what would you do? Don’t choose to adopt a cat if you already have a Weimaraner, and vice versa, as we are powerless to change the way the animal kingdom is.
Yorkshire Terrier
This breed resembles the Shih Tzu in several ways because both are small dogs with prominent personalities. They have really large egos and believe that everything should revolve around them.
They have no desire to reciprocate even a tiny portion of their owner’s affection for any other animal, particularly if that animal is a cat. A Yorkie wouldn’t be happy living alongside a cat because it would disrupt their happiness. Despite their small size, Yorkies can potentially hurt your cat if they feel threatened.
Do Dogs and Cats Get Along?
It’s a question that has been asked since the dawn of time, or at least since people started keeping pets. Can dogs and cats get along?
The answer, as with most things in life, is it depends. Some dogs and cats get along famously. They nap together, play together, and are generally best buds. Other dogs and cats, not so much. They may tolerate each other, but there’s no love lost between them.
So why the difference? A lot of it has to do with personality. Dogs are social creatures who crave companionship, while cats are more independent and aloof. That’s not to say that all dogs are outgoing and all cats are standoffish, but those tendencies can affect how well the two species get along.
It’s also important to remember that dogs and cats are different in the way they communicate. Dogs express themselves through body language and vocalizations, while cats primarily communicate through scent and body language. This can lead to misunderstandings between the two species, further complicating things.
With all that said, there are some things you can do to help your dog and cat get along better. First, give them each their own space. This means having separate food and water bowls, beds, litter boxes, etc. Their territory will help reduce competition between the two animals and make them feel more comfortable.
Second, provide plenty of toys and playtime for your dog and cat. This will help tire them out and give them a positive outlet for their energy. It’s also a great way to bond with your pets individually.
Finally, be patient. It may take some time for your dog and cat to become friends, but it’s possible. You may be surprised at how well they get along with a bit of patience and effort.
Conclusion
The best dog breeds for cats are typically gentle, calm, and patient. Breeds in this category include the Labrador Retriever, the Golden Retriever, and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. These breeds are all known for their gentle natures and easygoing dispositions – perfect for a family including dogs and cats.
Of course, even the best dogs with cats can have their moments. All dogs, no matter their breed, will need some training in living with a cat. This is especially true if the dog is not used to being around cats. However, with a little patience and training, even the most high-energy dog can learn to coexist peacefully with a feline friend.
Introducing them slowly and carefully is the best way to ensure that your new dog and cat get along. Start by allowing them to sniff each other through a baby gate or pet carrier.
Once they’ve had a chance to get used to each other’s scent, you can begin letting them see each other face-to-face. Doing this gradually is essential, as too much too soon can be overwhelming for both animals.
Whenever you’re introducing your dog and cat, make sure to keep a close eye on both of them. If either animal shows signs of stress – such as panting, tail-tucking, or ear-flattening – it’s best to give them a break and try again later.
On the other hand, the worst dog breeds for cats are small and aggressive, such as Chihuahuas and Jack Russell Terriers. However, it’s important to remember that all dogs and cats are different, and even the worst offenders can get along if you give them a chance.
