Dog Breeds That Get Along With Cats
Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are one of the best dogs for cats, and "golden" is a fitting word to describe this classic breed. Kind and empathetic, Golden Retrievers accept cats readily as part of the family. However, this dog breed should be trained to not chase after the kitty early on. Once that is accomplished, the happy-go-lucky Golden Retriever and cat are sure to be a perfect match. Plus, this dog breed is innately amiable to other people and pets!
Labrador Retriever The exuberant Labrador Retriever, or "Lab," is a lover—not a fighter. They will happily welcome a cat into their circle of friends. Along with befriending your cat, the Lab is a gentle giant who will make an ideal companion for your children. Though Labs are not the jealous type and are more than willing to share their space with the cat, the cat must be willing to share their space with the dog as well.
Beagle The amiable Beagle seems to enjoy feline company—perhaps because it was bred to hunt in packs. Therefore, it views a cat sibling as a fellow member of the group. Stick to one Beagle, though; together, these dogs may acquire a "pack mentality" and are more likely to team up on the cat, according to BeaglePro. Beagles' sociable personalities make them a pleasure to the family as well as other people and animals alike.
Pug A Pug is the epitome of a friendly breed and another dog that is good with cats. As long as a cat will allow a Pug to enter their domain, they often become fast friends. Because Pugs love attention, the kitty and Pug can bond and play while the humans are out of the house. Plus, this dog breed enjoys lounging around so you won't have a problem with them chasing your cat. Pugs have a sweet nature and are also usually safe around small animals, such as guinea pigs.
Bichon Frise Bichon Frises have a happy and entertaining personality, making them ideal siblings and playmates with the cat. However, the Bichon Frise's outgoing personality may be too overwhelming for a cat who likes to be left alone. Therefore, this sweet dog breed will accept and befriend any cat who tolerates (or partakes in) its charming antics!
Shetland Sheepdog Though a member of the Herding Group, the Shetland Sheepdog, or "Sheltie," is known to be cat friendly. Their mild nature, high trainability, and welcoming attitude make Shetland Sheepdogs a good bet for cat parents because they will obey you once they learn how to behave around the cat. Plus, Shelties do tend to bark when they are bored, so a kitty sibling can help keep them company and curb this behavior!
Basset Hound Although the Basset Hound is a natural hunter, it is more interested in hunting for dinner than hunting the cat. Basset Hounds can be stubborn while training, but their overall laidback personality makes them friendly toward other animals, cats included. Not to mention, the Basset Hound's easygoing attitude is often an invitation for the cat to cuddle up beside their furry sibling!
Poodle All three Poodle sizes make excellent housemates for a feline friend. Toy Poodles tend to play with cats, Miniatures generally tolerate them, and Standards pretend they don't exist. This dog breed is dedicated to its family, and its protective instinct extends to the cat, too! The active Poodle behaves best when it gets plenty of exercise, so with daily walks and playtime, the relationship between the Poodle and cat can flourish.
Maltese The Maltese is sure to be kind toward the cat, especially because this mellow dog breed is often preoccupied with lying on the couch rather than meddling in the cat's business. However, the cat can be the one to take advantage of a Maltese's sweet and gentle personality. On that note, these two can live peacefully if the kitty agrees not to tease the Maltese, such as playing with this dog breed's long hair. Therefore, be sure to keep a close watch when introducing your kitty to your Maltese and they will get along just fine!
Boston Terrier While Terriers are not typically compatible with cats, we can make an exception for this gentleman: the Boston Terrier, or "Boston." Although Bostons may engage in chasing the cat, this is usually out of fun, not prey drive. The good-tempered Boston Terrier is polite to kitties as well as other animals.