For ages, dogs and cats have been painted as sworn enemies. Yet, this longstanding cliché couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, there are several dog breeds that not only tolerate but genuinely enjoy having a feline companion under the same roof.
Here is a list of 10 dog breeds that generally do well with cats. Plus, you’ll find practical tips on how to introduce a cat to your dog for a peaceful, lasting friendship.
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is the picture of loyalty, patience, and calmness. Training a Basset can be a bit of a challenge thanks to their stubborn streak inherited from their hunting heritage.
That said, the Basset’s laid-back outlook on life makes them remarkably friendly and tolerant toward other animals.
Bassets are far more interested in hunting for their dinner than hunting for cats. Their general penchant for relaxation often means your cat may see them as nothing more than a cozy, living couch.
Beagle
Bred to hunt in packs, Beagles are typically sociable with other animals.
This carefree nature makes them a delightful companion, whether to humans or felines. Most Beagles are affectionate pack members and are likely to count your cat among their friends.
These amiable dogs might spend their days chasing rabbits, but they’re smart enough to spot a cat for what it is and happily welcome feline company. Who knows, maybe they even swap hunting tales?
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are celebrated for their playful spirit—they truly need their daily dose of exercise.
Still, their adaptable and outgoing disposition makes them fantastic companions for cats.
Gentle and empathetic, Goldens almost instinctively accept cats as part of the family.
Labrador Retriever
Labradors are overflowing with love and affection. With their friendly, open nature, Labs are famous for getting along with everyone—regardless of species.
Labradors are gentle, intelligent, and eager to please. Their exuberant, loving attitude means they’ll quickly include a cat in their circle of friends.
Papillon
These butterfly-eared little dogs—officially known as Continental Toy Spaniels—are just about cat-sized.
Their cheerful and curious nature means they’re far more likely to see your cat as a friend and want in on all the family fun, cat games included.
Pug
Pugs pack plenty of love into a tiny, adorable package. Endearing and endlessly attention-seeking, a cat can be the perfect companion to keep them entertained in your absence.
Don’t let their size fool you—pugs are sturdy enough for feline playmates. If a cat allows a pug into its space, a firm friendship often forms.
Small pets like guinea pigs are generally safe around Pugs too.
Poodle
Poodles—whether toy, miniature, or standard—make excellent housemates for cats. Toy Poodles will join in with cat games, Miniatures will tolerate feline quirks, and Standards may act like the cat doesn’t even exist.
Boston Terrier
Terriers usually spell trouble for cats, but the Boston Terrier stands out as the exception. They’re just too polite for rivalry.
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is famous for being affectionate and accepting of other pets. They get along not just with cats, but also with smaller animals—as long as they’ve been properly socialized and trained.
Pekingese
Pekingese don’t go in for chasing cats, nor do most cats seem the slightest bit intimidated by them.
Still, it’s best to introduce your Pekingese and cat while they’re young, or at least have one familiar with the other’s species.
Starting off with the Pekingese on a leash around your cat can work wonders in the early days.
Boxer
When your Boxer and cat start as puppy and kitten together, their odds of becoming best playmates are sky-high, often with next to no help from you.
Puppies readily accept kittens as part of the pack. But if you have an adult cat and a Boxer pup, go slowly—the cat might get defensive when buzzed by a playful Boxer zooming around at full speed.
Can Dogs and Cats Really Live Together?
Some people favor dogs, others adore cats. But what about those who love both? Good news—dogs and cats absolutely can become best friends, or at the very least learn to coexist peacefully.
If you already have a cat and are thinking about getting a dog, choosing the right breed will lay the groundwork for a harmonious household.
Generally, breeds that are affectionate and sociable stand the best chance of getting along with cats. Certain dogs—like the feisty Terriers—have been bred to hunt and kill vermin, so a fast-moving cat might awaken that old predator instinct. Sighthounds, born hunters, can see cats as prey too. No cat likes that kind of attention!
Herding breeds, known for their desire to gather anything that moves, may rile up cats who do not appreciate being herded alongside the kids and owner.
The truth is, most dog breeds can live calmly with cats if they’re properly socialized as puppies and trained to leave the cat alone.
Teaching your dog a solid “Leave It” and “Stay” will go a long way toward peace.
Proper introductions are vital, and always make sure your cat has an escape route. Never leave a new dog alone with your cat until you’re certain there will be no trouble.
Individual personality matters. A senior cat who loves solitude might not mesh well with a bouncy puppy.
Research your chosen breed before bringing a dog into your cat-loving home, and chat with reputable breeders about how suitable a breed may be for a multi-pet household.
Good to Know
Other cat-friendly breeds include the Bernese Mountain Dog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Irish Setter, Pomeranian, English Cocker Spaniel, and Sussex Spaniel.
How Can I Get My Dog and Cat to Coexist?
It’s true—not every cat and dog will become the best of friends. They are, after all, two very different species with their own personalities. But given the right circumstances, countless dogs and cats can share a home in perfect harmony.
A Gentle Introduction
Most cats can coexist with a dog if given some time to get comfortable around one another.
If you raise a puppy and kitten together, they’ll often learn to accept each other right away, sometimes even growing so close they’ll nap and play side by side.
If your home already has a dog and you’re bringing in a new cat or kitten, you’ll want to take a few precautions.
The First Meeting
When it’s time for introductions, position your cat at your dog’s eye level and keep a firm hold on both animals so they feel secure. If either animal seems nervous or aggressive, end the encounter and try again later.
Don’t rush things! Spend a few minutes, several times a day, supervising their meetings. Soon enough, you’ll notice them becoming more relaxed in each other’s company.
Never Leave Them Alone
Never leave your dog and cat alone together until you’re sure they’re at ease.
If you make the mistake of walking off before they’re ready, you could come back to scratches, bites, or worse. Even if no physical harm occurs, a single scary experience can traumatize a pet for life.
Considerations with Cats
Even a cat that’s fine with most dogs might have a special dislike for one specific dog living under the same roof. Much like people, animals sometimes just don’t click.
If time and patient introductions aren’t dissolving the hissing and swatting, this may be the case.
If you’re considering a new cat or kitten, help your dog get used to the idea via careful, controlled meetings. Allow each animal to sniff and investigate at their own pace. But if it’s not working out, be ready to reconsider your household setup for the well-being of all involved.
