Top Dog Breeds That Get Along With Cats
Cats and dogs don’t have to be enemies—in fact, many dogs are perfectly happy sharing a home with a feline friend. The key lies in choosing a breed with the right temperament: gentle, low prey drive, and willing to respect the cat’s space. Whether you're already a cat owner considering a dog, or vice versa, this guide explores the best dog breeds that tend to get along well with cats.
Why Some Dogs Are More Cat-Friendly Than Others
Some dogs have a high prey drive—they’re wired to chase anything that moves, including cats. Others are naturally calm, sociable, or even indifferent to other animals. Key traits that make a dog cat-compatible include:
- Low prey drive
- Gentle temperament
- Obedience and trainability
- Past socialization with cats
Top Dog Breeds That Usually Get Along with Cats
| Dog Breed | Temperament Traits | Why They're Cat-Friendly |
|---|---|---|
| Golden Retriever | Friendly, tolerant, easygoing | Gentle with all animals, highly trainable |
| Labrador Retriever | Social, patient, eager to please | Playful but gentle; usually non-aggressive |
| Basset Hound | Calm, low energy, non-reactive | Less likely to chase; tolerant of cats |
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Affectionate, peaceful | Loves companionship, including cats |
| Poodle (Standard/Mini) | Smart, obedient, adaptable | Learns quickly to respect cats’ space |
| Boxer | Playful, social, good with families | Often enjoys company, can be trained to be gentle |
| Maltese | Sweet-natured, affectionate | Small and non-threatening to cats |
| Papillon | Alert, friendly, good with others | Sociable and gentle when socialized early |
| Newfoundland | Calm, sweet-tempered, loyal | Large but gentle; nicknamed “gentle giant” |
| Collie (Rough/Smooth) | Intelligent, calm, protective | Naturally nurturing and obedient |
Tips for Introducing a Dog to a Cat
Even if you pick a cat-friendly breed, a slow, structured introduction is key:
- Start with scent: Let them smell each other’s bedding or toys.
- Use barriers: Keep them separated at first using baby gates or closed doors.
- Controlled face-to-face meetings: Leash the dog; allow the cat to approach.
- Watch body language: Look for signs of stress, chasing, or aggression.
- Never force interaction: Let both animals warm up in their own time.
Tip: Always give your cat a “safe zone” that the dog can’t access.
FAQ: Dogs and Cats Living Together
Q: Can any dog live with a cat if trained properly?
A: Most dogs can learn to coexist peacefully with cats, but high prey drive breeds (like terriers or sighthounds) may require extra supervision or may not be ideal.
Q: Should I adopt a puppy or an adult dog with my cat?
A: Puppies are more adaptable, but adult dogs with a known cat-friendly history may be easier to manage.
Q: What if my cat doesn’t like dogs?
A: Prioritize your cat’s comfort. Choose calm, non-reactive breeds, and give your cat plenty of vertical and private spaces.
Choosing the right dog breed is a great first step to building harmony between cats and dogs. With proper introductions and a little patience, these cat-friendly dog breeds can become your cat’s next best friend—or at least a peaceful roommate.