The phrase “fighting like cats and dogs” is well-known, yet the truth is that it need not always be the case.
While some dogs have high prey drives or herding levels that can turn them into a formidable opponent to any cat, many dog breeds can live with them peacefully. There are breeds that are calm, patient, and even affectionate towards cats.
Whether you are a cat owner planning to bring a dog into your home, or a dog person considering adopting a cat, it’s important that you pick the right breed.
Some dogs welcome other pets with open paws and are quite good at sharing their living space, while some are really not. So, to avoid utter chaos within your house, let’s take a closer look at the below discussed 12 kinds of dogs that generally get along well with cats.
1. Basset Hound
These are calm and loyal dogs. Having the distant aura of large ears and the lack of much energy, this breed is not interested in chasing cats.
Basset Hounds are very patient and steady; therefore, they make excellent choices for homes that have feline roommates. Just remember that they love their howling, so the cat might need to get used to the sound.
2. Beagle
Did you ever know that beagles were historically pack hunters and accustomed to being with other animals? Well, yes! This is because they are gentle, social, and love company, be it with people or other fellow animals.
Not only are they fun to be around, but they are inquisitive and can very well become great pals to your cat given the right introduction.
3. Bulldog
The tough look is deceptive: this dog breed is calm, rather than aggressive, and very affectionate. They don’t get all that energetic, so there won’t be much chasing going on for your cat around the house.
Bulldogs just love to lounge and take long naps, and this lifestyle works very well with most cats. In this manner, their laid-back attitude puts them at the top of the list of best dog breeds for cat homes.
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The gentle and affectionate toy breed is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. The spaniels love being in the company of others and usually lack a strong prey drive.
Their calm and friendly attitude makes it easy for them to coexist peacefully with cats. These dogs are also intuitive and give a cat its space if needed (a great recipe for a peaceful home).
5. Collie
Even herding types, Collies somehow prove an exception as far as cat companionship is concerned.
They are smart, sweet, and are incredibly loyal. With the proper socialization, a collie learns to respect a cat’s boundaries. Collies enjoy social life and will treat the cat as family.
6. Irish Setter
Irish Setters are open and fiercely energetic. As a matter of fact, note that running and playing are what they do best, along with being extremely happy, social and friendly.
When you train these dogs in an appropriate way, they could share a home peacefully (mostly). Their playful nature could even encourage a shy cat to play.
7. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are well known for their sweetness and chirpy attitude. They get along really well with almost everyone, including cats.
Putting it simply, these dogs are gentle, intelligent, and adaptable. These furry and affection loving dogs are people pleasers and behave well, making the perfect companion along with a cat.
They are so joyful that your cat will find itself a friendly companion to grow along with.
8. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are basically gentle giants with the softest heart ever. These big dogs tend to be calm, friendly, and protective.
They are famous for their sweet and caring personalities, and in the majority of cases, they are good with both children and other pets. Their size may be scary at first, but their heart is equally big.
9. Bernese Mountain Dog
The teddy bear-like Bernese Mountain dog is one of the most loyal, affectionate, and very patient breeds you’ll ever know. They like to be close to members of the family and are rarely chaotic with other animals.
These dogs spend their time outdoors and do not usually bother indoor cats. Their calmness, empathy, and patience make them a good pet choice if you already have a cat or are planning to get one.
10. German Shepherd
Though German Shepherds have been widely considered working or guard dogs, they are fiercely loyal to their families.
If they have been properly raised and socialized for the job, they can regard cats as members of their pack, protecting even their feline mates through instinct. Supervision must be given to ensure all goes well initially, plus a slow introduction.
11. Pug
Pugs are playful and silly and crave company. Their small stature and mellow character make for great housemates for a cat.
They don’t want to intimidate or chase; they’d rather cuddle or play. A pug and a cat can forge a really fun metallic bond.
12. Dalmatian
Dalmatians are intelligent, energetic, and loyal. They can be trained to get along well with cats. Since they have a lot of energy, they need so much exercise.
On the other hand, if well-trained, a Dalmatian surely finds advantages from the company of a cat to counteract boredom. The key is to introduce matters in a slow manner while closely monitoring their interactions.
Conclusion
When in consideration of bringing a dog into the cats’ life or vice-versa, choose a breed known to be friendly, patient, and adaptable.
While every dog has an individual personalities, the above-mentioned breeds tend to adjust well with other pets.
Of course, whatever the breed, co-living success depends on proper training, instructions, time, patience and effort. Give the right match a little push, and your cat and dog could very well turn into a close friendship or at least learn to tolerate each other peacefully.
So if a peaceful and happy home is what you want, give the following list of cat-friendly dog breeds a shot.
Just a little heads-up: A few cats just can’t always tolerate a dog around. So while choosing the right dog breed is important, never forget your own cat’s personality. Some cats are bold and bossy while others are super chill. Remember, like every other compatible relationship, the match must go both ways!
