Paws and Purrs: 11 Best Dog Breeds for Cat Households

If you’re a cat owner considering adding a dog to your family, you might wonder which breeds are most likely to get along well with your feline friend.

Introducing a new dog to your cat can be exciting but also challenging. Let’s explore the best dog breeds for cats and provide tips for ensuring a harmonious relationship between your pets.

Finding Dogs That Like Cats

When choosing a dog that will get along with your cat, it’s important to think about the dog’s personality. Some dogs are naturally friendly and easy to integrate with cats, making them excellent companions for indoor living.

Another breed to consider is the Pug. Puggys are loving and flexible dogs that usually get along fine with cats. Their relaxed nature and love for cuddling make them great friends for calm living with cats.

Choosing the Right Dog

If you’re thinking about getting a dog to join your family, but you already have a cat, it’s important to pick a dog breed that your cat will get along with.

Introducing a new dog to your cat might seem tricky, but with the right breed, it can work out well. Consider the size of your cat when selecting a dog breed. Smaller dog breeds may be less intimidating to a cat and less likely to trigger fear or aggression.

Prioritize breeds that are known for their trainability and obedience. Dogs that respond well to training are easier to teach appropriate behavior around cats and can learn to coexist gently with them.

Remember that individual personalities vary within each breed, so it’s important to assess each dog’s temperament and behavior on an individual basis.

11 Dog Breeds that Get Along fine with cats 

While individual temperament can vary, certain dog breeds are known to generally get along well with cats due to their friendly and easygoing nature. Here are 11 dog breeds that tend to have good relationships with cats

1. Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is widely recognized as a top-notch, loyal dog breed. While Labradors are commonly associated with skills like fetching and hunting, they also excel as family pets and get along well with other animals, including cats.

They’re patient, friendly, and can adapt easily, so they see cats as potential pals instead of something to chase. Their energetic side matches perfectly with cats’ curiosity and movements, leading to fun times together.

Labradors are generally compatible with cats because they’re naturally sociable and easy to get along with. They’re patient and enjoy spending time with cats, making them a great fit for households with both cats and dogs.

With a bit of training and guidance, they fit right into homes with cats, making life happier for everyone. So if you have a Labrador and a cat, chances are they’ll become great friends!

2. Basset Hound

The Basset dog is a friendly dog breed that often gets along cat-friendly. With their easygoing nature, they tend to adapt smoothly to multi-pet households, creating a peaceful environment for everyone.

These dogs have a laid-back personality, making them a joy to live with. They enjoy spending time with their human companions and are equally comfortable around cats.

Basset dogs, with their loving and accepting attitude, make excellent companions for both people and pets alike. Their patient and gentle nature helps them form strong bonds with cats and other animals in the household, making them low-maintenance yet affectionate additions to any family.

Basset Hounds are charming and easy to get along with. They have a loyal nature and make wonderful additions to any home, whether it’s filled with cats, dogs, or both.

3. Beagle

Beagle

The Beagle is a wonderful canine companion for cats due to their incredible friendliness and adaptability. They are known for being very friendly, making them excellent pals for cats. Moreover, they are the cutest cuddle buddies.

With their mellow temperament and friendly nature, these cutest dog breeds can seamlessly integrate into the purr-fect family. These adorable pups bring joy and companionship, much like our feline friends.

When it comes to personality, they are not only happy and energetic but also affectionate. They bring joy to any home with their cheerful attitude and enjoy playing around. Additionally, they are affectionate towards both people and other animals, making them ideal companions for cats in search of a furry friend.

Their curiosity, combined with their friendliness, aids in building strong relationships with cats in the household. With proper training and adjustment, these pups can easily coexist peacefully with cats, truly becoming a part of the family.

4. German Shepherd

Most Dangerous Dog Breeds

German Shepherds might seem tough, but they can be gentle, especially with cats. Even though they’re known for protecting, many Germans like hanging out with cats. They’re patient and calm, so they usually get along well with their homes easily.

They’ll bark to let you know if something’s not right, but they’re not aggressive without reason. With proper training and socialization they can be calm and well-behaved around other animals, including cats, making them exemplary personal protection dog breeds.

These dogs are good at living with cats because they’re loyal to their families and they understand how to behave around other pets. They’re smart enough to know when to back off and give cats space.

With the right training and getting used to each other, German Shepherds and cats can become best buddies, making life happier for everyone in the family.

5. Bichon Frise

Bichon Frisés, renowned for their friendly disposition and sociable demeanor, naturally gravitate towards cats as ideal companions. Whether they’re cuddling up for a nap or playing around the house, their gentle nature and playful attitude create strong bonds with cats.

Bichon Frisés are gentle, friendly, and curly haired dogs. They’re playful and confident, despite their small size. They get along well with cats and love making friends. Their happy and sociable nature makes them great companions for people too.

In terms of personality, Bichon Frisés are soft and kind. Despite their small size, they’re confident, which helps them interact nicely with cats while respecting their space. Bichon Frisés are easygoing and friendly, perfect for sharing a home with cats. 

Overall, the Bichon Frisé’s nature not only complements cats but also strengthens the bond between them, creating a harmonious and adorable relationship.

6. Toy poodle

Toy poodles are small dogs with big personalities! These cute pups are known for being playful and loving, making them great pets for families and individuals. Some may be interested in cats, while others might prefer to stay away. 

These dogs are smart and agile, which makes them quick learners. They enjoy mental challenges, making training enjoyable. When they interact with cats, they may be curious or cautious, depending on their personality.

Despite being small, a toy poodle, standing around 10 inches tall, is surprisingly confident and charming. It loves companionship and carries itself proudly.

While some may assert themselves over cats, many are gentle and tolerant, forming close bonds with their feline friends. With their playful and affectionate nature, toy poodles can bring happiness to any home, making them beloved pets for both cat lovers and dog enthusiasts.

7. Pug

Pugs are incredibly popular toy dogs known for their excellent personalities and affectionate nature. They’re also great at snuggling up with small children and being a gentle giant around them.

When it comes to cats, pugs often have a unique relationship with their feline roommates. Some may chase after cats with lots of energy, while others prefer to just hang out together peacefully.

In terms of temperament, pugs tend to be friendly, sociable, and they love people, enjoying the company of people and other animals alike. However, their interactions with cats can vary depending on their personalities.

Despite their small size, pugs have a big presence in the dog world. They bring joy to any environment with their cheerful demeanor and playful antics. Cats will find that life with this pup is also incredibly fun and rewarding. 

8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small and friendly dog with a personality as lovely as its appearance. These tiny pooches are known for being affectionate and kind, making them excellent family pets for families of all shapes and sizes.

One of their most pleasant qualities is their love for interacting with others. With their outgoing and curious nature, Cavaliers often get along well with feline friends, forming bonds that warm the heart.

In terms of making friends across species, Cavaliers and cats often get along famously. Cavaliers are not ones to chase or bother cats; instead, they approach them with curiosity and respect, often building unexpected friendships. 

Their friendly and sociable nature makes them a joy to be around, and their affectionate demeanor ensures they’re always close to their human side.

9. Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are part of the working breeds of dogs. According to the American Kennel Club, they are known for their affectionate nature and are eager to please. They are extremely social animals and probably won’t mind having a cat as a friend.

When it comes to their behavior around cats, that’s where their gentle side shines through. Despite being a big, fluffy dog breed, Newfoundland dogs are gentle and likely won’t bother the cat.

Their temperament plays a significant role in how they interact with cats. Newfoundlands are known for their sweet and patient demeanor, which translates well to their interactions with other pets.

They approach cats with a curious but gentle attitude, showing respect for their smaller counterparts. Their calm and steady nature often helps to reassure cats, making them feel safe and comfortable in their presence.

10. Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog, or Sheltie, is a fluffy and smart doggy that easily makes fast friends. These cute pups get along well with cats, often forming strong bonds with their family pet.

Shelties have a gentle nature and love to play and cat around, making them great housemates for cats. They’re not just another member of the family; they’re loyal companions who enjoy spending time with their cat housemate.

Shelties are known for their gentle and patient approach, making them excellent companions for households with feline friends. Their adaptability and willingness to please make them a joy to have around.

When you’re looking for a pet that gets along with your family cat, a Sheltie is an excellent choice. They are easily trainable, understand boundaries, and your family cat won’t feel threatened by their presence.

11. Papillon

The Papillon is a small and friendly dog breed known for its distinctive butterfly-like ears. They have a happy-go-lucky nature and are a popular choice for families, as they tend to get along well with cats.

These pups enjoy proper socialization and can also be great companions for cats. When it comes to playtime, they’re always eager to join in, whether it’s with a fellow dog or a curious kitty.

Loved for their friendly nature and affection, Papillons are a favorite among families due to their manageable size and easygoing temperament. These dogs are known to be playful and cheerful, enjoying interactions with both humans and cats.

Papillons are flexible and can adjust how they act to make sure everyone is comfortable, whether it’s the dog or the cat. They bring happiness and friendship to families, making them a great addition to any household with cats. 

FAQs

What are some dog breeds that are suitable for households with cats?

Bulldogs, terriers, barbets, cocker spaniels, Cavaliers (Cavs), and Newfoundlands (Newfies) are considered giants, making them ideal companions for cats. Labs, bichons, stout, Boston Terrier, Australian dog, Irish Setter, Border Collie, Golden Retriever, Maltese, and Bichon Frise breeds are also known for their compatibility with feline friends due to their friendly nature and adaptability.

Which dog breeds are known to be compatible with cats, especially in colder climates?

Dogs for cats in cold weather often include breeds like Newfoundlands, known for their gentle disposition and ability to get along well with feline companions. These gentle giants make excellent companions for cats due to their laid-back nature and adaptability to chilly temperatures.

Do herding breeds tend to get along with cats, or are they more of an annoyance to them?

 Herding breeds, such as Australian Shepherds, are known to be adaptable and make excellent companions for cats. While their instinct to herd may initially be a concern, with proper training and socialization, these dogs can learn to coexist peacefully with feline housemates.

Which animals, including cats and dogs, are bred to hunt in packs, and what other traits do they possess?

Cats included, dogs are also bred to hunt in packs. Newfies are gentle giants, Labs are also great. Additionally, they enjoy lounging around amidst fluff and chasing butterflies.

Conclusion

Picking the right dog breed for a home with cats means thinking about things like how friendly the dog is, how big it is, and how much energy it has. Families can help their pets get along by choosing dogs that are known for being gentle and adaptable. With proper introductions, teaching, and watching over them, dogs and cats can live happily together in a loving home. 

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