Let’s be real. When you think about bringing a dog into a home that already has a cat curled up in the sunny corner, your mind might drift to chaos. You picture the frantic chases, the hissing, the territorial showdowns. I know it sounds crazy, but here’s the thing: not all dogs are wired to treat cats like prey.
Some dog breeds are genuinely gentle, social, and downright friendly with their feline housemates. They see cats as part of the family, not as something to chase. The key is understanding which breeds have the temperament, personality, and instincts to live peacefully with cats and even smaller pets like guinea pigs or rabbits. So let’s dive in and discover the surprising canine companions that’ll make your multi-pet household a harmonious haven.
Golden Retriever
Here’s a breed that needs no introduction. Golden Retrievers are one of the best dogs for cats, and kind and empathetic, they accept cats readily as part of the family. Their playful yet patient nature makes them adaptable to living with almost any animal.
What makes Goldens stand out is their trainability. They respond beautifully to commands, which means you can teach them early on not to chase the family cat. This dog breed should be trained to not chase after the kitty early on. Once that’s accomplished, you’ll likely find your Golden Retriever snuggling up next to your cat on the couch. Their friendly disposition extends to everyone they meet, furry or not.
Think of them as the diplomats of the dog world. They’re big hearted, eager to please, and genuinely love being around others. Whether it’s a curious kitten or a senior cat who wants peace, a Golden Retriever will respect boundaries while still offering gentle companionship.
Labrador Retriever
Labs are lovers, not fighters. Labrador Retrievers are kind and outgoing and are known to get along with everyone they meet, regardless of species. Their enthusiasm for life is contagious, but they also know when to dial it down and give your cat some space.
The beauty of Labs lies in their intelligence and eagerness to learn. Labs’ adaptability and smarts also help them understand and respect cat boundaries, making for a more harmonious home. They’re excellent at reading social cues, whether from humans or animals, which helps prevent any tension in a multi-pet household.
Labs are naturally gentle giants despite their size and energy. They’ll happily welcome a cat into their circle of friends and even share their favorite napping spots. Their low prey drive makes them a safe bet for homes with smaller pets too.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These little charmers were bred to be companion dogs, and boy, do they take that job seriously. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are affectionate and gentle dogs well-suited for living with cats due to their friendly and non-threatening nature, known for their adaptability and ability to get along with various pets, including cats.
Cavaliers have a calm and reserved temperament that cats appreciate. They’re not likely to overwhelm a feline with excessive energy or pestering. Instead, they respect personal space while remaining available for companionship when the cat feels like socializing.
Their small size also helps. Cats are less likely to feel threatened by a dog that’s roughly their own size. Plus, Cavaliers genuinely enjoy the company of other animals and thrive in multi-pet households where they’re never left alone for too long.
Beagle
Beagles might surprise you. Beagles were bred to hunt in packs, so they are typically friendly with other animals. Their happy-go-lucky nature makes them a pleasure to live with. They are loving companions that are likely to see a cat as just another member of the pack.
These scent hounds are incredibly social. They don’t like being alone, so having a cat around for company is actually a bonus in their eyes. Sure, they can be a bit excitable and might try to engage your cat in play, but with proper socialization, they’ll learn what’s acceptable.
One thing to keep in mind: Beagles do howl. If your cat is easily startled by loud noises, this might take some adjustment. Still, their friendly demeanor and pack mentality make them surprisingly compatible with feline friends.
Pug
Pugs are affectionate little goofballs who just want to be loved by everyone. Pugs are usually calm and easy to please, but able to stand their ground firmly against their bossy cat friends. Their laid-back personality means they’re more interested in lounging than chasing.
What’s endearing about Pugs is their social nature. Because Pugs love attention, the kitty and Pug can bond and play while the humans are out of the house. They’re equally happy to snuggle with a cat as they are with their favorite human.
Their compact size and gentle temperament put cats at ease. Pugs are generally non-aggressive and prefer companionship over confrontation, making them ideal for homes with cats and even smaller pets like rabbits or guinea pigs.
Basset Hound
Honestly, if you’re looking for a dog that won’t bother your cat, the Basset Hound is hard to beat. The Basset Hound is loyal, patient, and low-key. Their mild-mannered attitude makes them friendly and tolerant of other animals. They’re the embodiment of chill.
These droopy-faced hounds have low energy levels, which means they’re not going to be chasing your cat around the house. This breed is known for its laid-back and easygoing nature, which is naturally helpful with skittish cats. The dogs’ low energy levels make them less likely to chase or insist on playing if your cat is not so inclined.
Basset Hounds were bred to hunt in packs, so they’re naturally inclined to view other animals as companions rather than competitors. Their sweet, affectionate nature even extends to smaller pets. Just be prepared for their melodious howling from time to time.
Maltese
The Maltese is a fluffy little ball of gentleness. This is a laid-back breed that likes to be close to people and will curl up in any available lap. Calm in nature and diminutive in size, Maltese make great apartment dogs and are likely to be largely indifferent to any cats in the house.
These dogs are more interested in snuggling than stirring up trouble. 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. Their gentle personality means they won’t intimidate even the shyest cat.
Their small size also plays a huge role in successful integration. Cats are far less threatened by a tiny, fluffy dog than a large, boisterous one. The Maltese is playful yet respectful, making them wonderful companions for feline friends.
Bichon Frise
Bichons are cheerful little fluffballs who love everyone they meet. The bichon frise is one of the best dog breeds for cats. These happy-go-lucky little balls of fluff love everybody, cats included. Playful by nature, this breed is likely to see your cat as a potential playmate.
Their sociable temperament makes them eager to bond with other animals in the household. The Bichon Frise is known for their cheerful disposition and love for social interaction. Their friendly nature and gentle temperament allow them to bond with cat siblings. They thrive on companionship and genuinely enjoy having playmates around.
The key is making sure your cat appreciates the attention. Bichons can be a bit boisterous in their enthusiasm, so they’re best paired with cats who don’t mind interactive play. Still, their loving nature and small stature make them delightful additions to multi-pet homes.
Papillon
Don’t let their delicate appearance fool you. These butterfly-eared dogs are about the size of a cat, but their happy and curious nature means they could see your cat as a friend. Papillons like to join in on whatever fun the family is having, even if it involves a cat.
Papillons are intelligent and adaptable, making them excellent at learning boundaries. Their playful energy is balanced by a genuine friendliness toward other animals. They’re small enough not to intimidate a cat, yet confident enough not to be pushed around.
These little dogs are naturally social and thrive in households where there’s always something happening. Whether it’s playtime or quiet cuddle sessions, Papillons are happy to include the family cat in their daily adventures.
Poodle (Toy, Miniature, and Standard)
Poodles of all sizes bring intelligence and adaptability to the table. Mini poodles are intelligent and adaptable dogs that generally cohabitate well with cats. Their non-aggressive nature makes them quite suitable companions. They’re quick learners and respond well to training.
What’s fascinating is how each size variation interacts differently with cats. Toy Poodles tend to play with cats, Miniatures generally tolerate them, and Standards pretend they don’t exist. Regardless of size, their protective instinct extends to all family members, including the cat.
Poodles need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. A well-exercised Poodle is a calm Poodle, and that calm energy translates into peaceful coexistence with cats and smaller pets. Their hypoallergenic coat is a bonus for multi-pet households worried about shedding.
Bulldog
Bulldogs might look tough, but they’re absolute softies. These thickset dogs could certainly intimidate a cat if they wanted to, but they are renowned for their kind temperaments. Bulldogs are friendly toward other creatures. Their mellow energy level makes them surprisingly compatible with cats.
These dogs are more interested in napping than chasing. The lazy nature of this stout breed make them great housemates for cats. A smaller type of Mastiff, the Bulldog is known for its sweet, affectionate, and non-aggressive nature. They’re patient and tolerant, which is exactly what you need in a multi-pet household.
Bulldogs are gentle with smaller animals and have a calming presence. They’re not easily ruffled, which helps create a peaceful environment for nervous or skittish cats. Their laid-back attitude is contagious in the best possible way.
Collie
Collies are famous for their love of children, but that gentle protectiveness extends to other animals too. These members of the Herding Group are famous for their love of children. For some, that love can extend to cats. They are vocal dogs that tend to be tolerant of other family pets.
Now, Collies do have herding instincts, which means they might try to corral your cat occasionally. It’s more amusing than aggressive, though proper training can minimize this behavior. Their intelligence makes them highly trainable, so teaching them to respect the cat’s space is entirely achievable.
Collies thrive with lots of exercise and companionship. When their physical and mental needs are met, they’re calm, attentive, and gentle with all family members. Their loyalty and protectiveness make them wonderful guardians for cats and smaller pets alike.
Newfoundland
These gentle giants are absolute sweethearts. Despite being one of the biggest dog breeds, Newfies are gentle giants. And Newfies are as sweet as the day is long. They’re remarkably gentle and instinctually aware of their size around tiny humans and animals. They’re renowned for their guardian-like watchful presence while still being a kind, playful and interactive “nanny” with their “charges,” including small children and pets, including cats.
Newfoundlands have an almost innate understanding of how big they are. They move carefully around smaller animals and are incredibly patient with cats, even when the cat decides to test their limits. Their calm demeanor creates a safe, peaceful environment.
What’s truly remarkable is their protective nature. They’ll watch over the family cat as diligently as they would a child. Their patient temperament pairs perfectly with feline quirks, making them surprisingly excellent companions despite their massive size.
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are people pleasers through and through. These sweet people-pleasers enjoy the company of other animals as well as people, making them one of the best dog breeds for cats. Their friendly, outgoing nature makes them naturally sociable with everyone they encounter.
These dogs have a gentle temperament that puts cats at ease. They’re playful without being overwhelming and affectionate without being pushy. Cocker Spaniels are happy to adapt to the household dynamics, whether that means active play sessions or quiet nap times.
Their medium size strikes a nice balance. They’re large enough to be sturdy playmates but not so big that they intimidate smaller pets. With proper introductions and socialization, Cocker Spaniels can become devoted friends to the family cat.
Irish Setter
Irish Setters are stunning dogs with even more beautiful personalities. Irish Setters are not only known for their stunning looks but also for their friendly and amiable personalities. Their social and outgoing nature makes them excellent companions for both humans and cats. Irish Setters thrive on forming strong bonds with their family members, and with the right introduction and early socialization, they can build a loving relationship with their feline housemates.
These dogs are energetic and need plenty of exercise, but when their physical needs are met, they’re calm and affectionate at home. They genuinely enjoy being around other animals and see the family cat as part of their pack.
Early socialization is key with Irish Setters. They have a lot of energy and enthusiasm, which can be overwhelming for some cats. However, with patience and proper introductions, they can form incredibly loving bonds with their feline companions and even smaller household pets.
Conclusion
Creating a peaceful multi-pet household isn’t about luck. It’s about choosing the right breed, understanding temperaments, and committing to proper introductions and training. These fifteen dog breeds have proven time and again that cats and dogs can be more than just tolerant housemates. They can be genuine friends.
Every dog is an individual, of course, and breed tendencies are just guidelines. Socialization, training, and your dedication to fostering positive interactions matter just as much as breed characteristics. Remember to introduce pets gradually, supervise their early interactions, and give both animals safe spaces to retreat when needed. With patience and the right match, you’ll create a harmonious home where every pet feels loved and secure. What breed surprised you the most? Tell us in the comments.
Gargi from India has a Masters in History, and a Bachelor of Education. An animal lover, she is keen on crafting stories and creating content while pursuing a career in education.
