Are you a cat lover thinking about adding a dog to your family? The dream of a peaceful household with both purring and tail-wagging is more possible than you might think. It’s surprising how many dog breeds can coexist happily with cats, often forming deep, heartwarming bonds. Imagine your cat and dog curled up together in a sunny window, sharing naps and even playing together! For those who want the best of both worlds, choosing the right dog breed is key. Let’s take a look at twelve breeds that are famously friendly with felines, making them wonderful choices for cat owners craving a canine companion.
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are often known as the gentle giants of the dog world. Their easy-going, loving personality makes them a top choice for cat owners. These dogs are patient and rarely aggressive, which means they can tolerate even the most curious or playful of cats. Goldens tend to treat cats more like siblings than rivals, often allowing cats to set the pace of their relationship. Their eagerness to please also means they’ll do their best not to upset your feline family member. Training a Golden Retriever to respect a cat’s boundaries is usually a breeze, thanks to their intelligence and desire to make you happy. With a Golden in the house, don’t be surprised if you catch your dog and cat napping side by side or sharing a sunbeam. The warmth and kindness of a Golden Retriever often melts even the most standoffish cat’s heart.
Labrador Retriever
Labradors are famous for their friendliness and adaptability, making them a perfect fit for homes with cats. Labs generally have a playful, tolerant spirit, and they’re not easily rattled by a cat’s sudden movements or mysterious moods. Their social nature means they seek companionship, whether it’s from other dogs, humans, or even the household cat. Labs are known for their trainability, so it’s easy to teach them to coexist peacefully with cats. Early introductions and positive reinforcement go a long way in building a harmonious relationship. You might see your Lab trying to initiate games with the cat, or simply sharing space without a fuss. Their loyal, easy-going temperament often brings out the best in cats, even those who are typically shy or timid.
Papillon
Don’t let the Papillon’s delicate appearance fool you—these small dogs have huge hearts and a big capacity for friendship. Known for their butterfly-like ears and lively personality, Papillons are often gentle with smaller animals, especially cats. Their dainty size makes them non-threatening, and their intelligence allows them to pick up on the household dynamics quickly. Papillons are playful and curious, which matches well with the energy of many cats. They’ll often try to engage in gentle play or simply follow the cat around the house, always eager to be involved but rarely pushy. Because they’re so adaptable, Papillons can thrive in a home where cats rule the roost. Their cheerful, sociable nature can even coax shy cats out of their shells, leading to delightful inter-species friendships.
Poodle
Poodles—whether toy, miniature, or standard—are known for their brains and balanced personalities. Their calm, friendly demeanor makes them a popular breed for multi-pet households. Poodles are rarely aggressive and tend to have a respectful curiosity about other animals, including cats. Their high intelligence means they can easily learn boundaries and proper behavior around feline friends. Poodles often form strong bonds with cats, sometimes even becoming protective of them. They are also sensitive to the moods of others, so they tend to adapt their behavior if the cat isn’t in the mood to socialize. With their hypoallergenic coats and gentle ways, Poodles make excellent companions for both people and pets, blending seamlessly into a cat-loving home.
Basset Hound
With their droopy ears and soulful eyes, Basset Hounds have an unmistakable charm. Their laid-back, easygoing nature makes them one of the best dog breeds for cat owners. Bassets are not known for being overly energetic or assertive, which means they rarely overwhelm a cat. Instead, they prefer to take things slow, often lounging around and minding their own business. This relaxed approach can help cats feel at ease, especially those who are wary of dogs. Despite their calm demeanor, Basset Hounds are quite affectionate and enjoy gentle companionship, sometimes snuggling up with a cat for warmth. Their mellow attitude helps create a harmonious environment, making them a delight in any pet-loving household.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are the epitome of sweetness, with a gentle soul and a love for all creatures great and small. Their affectionate, adaptable personality makes them ideal for sharing a home with cats. Cavaliers are eager to make friends and rarely show aggression, even when faced with a feisty feline. Their small size and soft approach mean they’re unlikely to intimidate cats, and their patience allows them to give a cat space when needed. Cavaliers are known for cuddling with cats or simply following them around the house, wanting to be part of the action. Their loving nature often wins over even the most aloof cats, leading to adorable moments of interspecies bonding that warm the heart.
Beagle
Beagles are social butterflies, always ready for a friend, whether it’s a human, another dog, or a curious cat. Their friendly disposition and playful spirit make them a great match for cats who enjoy interaction. Beagles are rarely aggressive, and their even-tempered nature allows them to handle the ups and downs of living with a cat. They’re also quite intelligent, making it easy to train them to respect a cat’s boundaries. Beagles tend to be curious but not overbearing, so they’ll often sniff around the cat but will back off if given a warning hiss. Their zest for life can sometimes inspire more playful cats to join in the fun, creating a lively, happy household.
Sheltie (Shetland Sheepdog)
Shelties are known for their intelligence and gentle, loyal temperament. Originally bred to herd, they have a natural instinct to be watchful and caring, which often extends to feline friends. Shelties are sensitive to the emotions of others and tend to adapt their behavior to the needs of the household. They’re also remarkably easy to train, picking up on rules about how to interact with the family cat. Shelties are not aggressive and are usually content to coexist peacefully, often acting as a gentle guardian for the cat. Their playful yet respectful nature helps foster a positive relationship, making them a fantastic choice for cat owners seeking a loyal, loving dog.
Boxer
Boxers might look tough on the outside, but they have hearts of gold. These playful, affectionate dogs are known for their boundless energy and goofy antics. Surprisingly, Boxers are also quite gentle with smaller animals, including cats. Their playful side can sometimes be a bit much for shy cats, but with proper introductions and supervision, Boxers often become best buddies with their feline housemates. They’re protective and loving, often treating cats like part of their pack. Boxers are quick learners, so teaching them to respect a cat’s space is usually straightforward. Their enthusiasm for life can be contagious, sometimes bringing out a cat’s playful side in the most unexpected ways.
Maltese
The Maltese is a tiny dog with a huge heart, known for its gentle, affectionate nature. These dogs are often content to snuggle up with a cat or simply be in the same room, enjoying peaceful companionship. Their small size makes them non-threatening, and their calm demeanor helps cats feel comfortable. Maltese dogs are not overly energetic or demanding, so they blend well into households where the cat might be the main event. They’re also quite adaptable and quickly learn the do’s and don’ts of living with a cat. If you’re looking for a lap dog who gets along with everyone—including your feline friend—the Maltese is a wonderful choice.
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are cheerful, adaptable, and eager to please, making them a fantastic fit for homes with cats. These “American Gentlemen” are known for their friendly personality and gentle ways. Boston Terriers are not aggressive and tend to approach new situations with curiosity rather than fear or dominance. Their small size and moderate energy level mean they won’t overwhelm a cat. They’re also quite good at reading social cues, so they’ll usually give a cat space when needed. Boston Terriers often initiate playful interactions, and with a willing cat, the two can become fast friends. Their affectionate nature helps create a warm, welcoming environment for everyone in the home.
Pug
Pugs have a reputation for being lovable clowns, always ready to bring a smile to everyone’s face, including the family cat. Their gentle, laid-back attitude makes them perfect for multi-pet households. Pugs are not aggressive and rarely show jealousy, even when a cat is getting attention. Their playful yet non-threatening nature helps cats feel at ease. Pugs enjoy companionship and are often found snuggling up with a cat or following them around, hoping for a little attention. Their amusing antics and affectionate personality make them a joy to have around, turning every day into a heartwarming display of interspecies friendship.
If you’re a cat lover thinking about adding a pup to the mix, these dog breeds could be your perfect match. They tend to get along well with feline friends, bringing balance instead of chaos to your home. With the right intro and a little patience, harmony is totally possible. So go ahead—your future dog-cat duo might just be the next great friendship in the making!
Born and bred in South Africa, a Capetonian at heart. Amy-Leigh’s love for nature and animals was inherited from her Dad. He loves taking the family on road trips to experience nature at its finest; Amy-Leigh’s favourite being whale watching in Hermanus and spotting Kudu along the West Coast. Amy-Leigh holds a BA in English Literature and Communication Studies.
