You’ve probably grown up hearing that dogs and cats are natural enemies, destined to chase each other around the house like characters in a cartoon. Maybe you’ve always dreamed of having both, but worried they’d never get along. Here’s the thing though: that old rivalry is more myth than reality.
The truth is, plenty of dogs and cats can become the best of friends, or at least peaceful housemates who respect each other’s space. The secret isn’t magic. It’s about picking the right breed with the right temperament, combined with proper introductions and a little patience. Some dogs are practically wired to be gentle and tolerant, making them perfect companions for your feline friends. Let’s dive in and discover eight breeds that might just surprise you with their cat-friendly nature.
1. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers accept cats readily as part of the family, and honestly, is anyone shocked? These dogs seem to love everyone and everything. Their gentle, patient nature makes them one of the most universally friendly breeds out there.
Golden Retrievers are known for their calm and friendly demeanor, making them less likely to be aggressive towards other animals, including cats. They’re intelligent enough to read the room and back off when your cat needs space. This dog breed should be trained to not chase after the kitty early on, but once they understand the rules, they’re golden.
What makes them particularly special is their eagerness to please. They genuinely want to make you happy, which means they’ll work hard to respect boundaries you set around your cat. Some Golden Retrievers even become protective of their feline siblings, treating them like precious family members who deserve gentleness and care.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are very people-oriented dogs that are exceptionally good with cats and other dogs. These little charmers carry themselves with an almost royal air, yet they’re surprisingly down-to-earth when it comes to making friends.
They are a bit more active than most other small breeds but gentle and laid-back. This balance is perfect because they can match a playful cat’s energy but won’t overwhelm a more reserved feline. Their affectionate personality means they’re always looking for companionship, and your cat might just fit the bill.
I think what’s remarkable about Cavaliers is their adaptability. Whether your cat is the type to cuddle on the couch or prefers to observe from a distance, a Cavalier will adjust accordingly. The Golden Cavalier adapts well to sharing space with other dogs and cats and treats other pets as part of the family, though early socialization with other dogs and cats will help.
3. Beagle
The amiable Beagle seems to enjoy feline company, perhaps because it was bred to hunt in packs. That pack mentality translates beautifully to multi-pet households where cooperation matters more than competition.
There are many Beagles that get along very well with felines, and a puppy may react differently than an adult. The key is raising them together when possible, so they see each other as family from the start. Beagles are naturally social creatures who thrive on companionship, whether that comes from humans or other animals.
Their curious, friendly demeanor makes them approachable for even cautious cats. Yes, Beagles have a strong nose and hunting instincts, but proper training and supervision turn Beagles into fantastic friends for felines. Watch for those initial meetings though, because an overly enthusiastic Beagle might accidentally spook a nervous kitty.
4. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound might suit you if you want a companion for your cat, as this breed is often friendly, calm and easy-going. Their droopy faces and long ears give them a perpetually relaxed look, and that’s pretty much their personality in a nutshell.
Although the Basset Hound is a natural hunter, it is more interested in hunting for dinner than hunting the cat, and their overall laidback personality makes them friendly toward other animals. They’re the kind of dog who would rather nap than cause trouble. After a short play session, you’ll likely find them curled up next to your cat for an afternoon snooze.
This breed is known for its laid-back and easygoing nature, which is naturally helpful with skittish cats, and their low energy levels make them less likely to chase or insist on playing if your cat is not so inclined. They respect boundaries naturally, which is exactly what most cats appreciate in a roommate.
5. Pug
Pugs often don’t mind having feline company, and you’re more likely to find them snuggling together than in the middle of a feisty exchange. These little comedians with their smushed faces and curly tails pack a whole lot of love into a compact body.
Dogs that are good with cats, such as Pugs, can often be the sweetest canines, and this breed is known for being generally good-tempered and sociable. Their small size means they’re not intimidating to most cats, and their laid-back attitude means they won’t push for attention when the cat isn’t interested.
Pugs were bred specifically to be companion animals, so they’re hardwired to get along with whoever shares their space. They’re content to lounge around the house, which aligns perfectly with the typical cat lifestyle. Plus, their snoring and snorting might actually entertain your curious kitty.
6. Maltese
The Maltese breed can be a cat-friendly dog breed, as this small breed is often friendly and sociable, meaning that they can get on well with cats. Weighing in at around seven pounds, these fluffy white clouds are basically the same size as many cats.
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. They’re independent enough to give cats their space, yet affectionate enough to enjoy companionship when it’s offered.
Their gentle nature makes them non-threatening, and many cats actually become protective of their tiny Maltese siblings. Maltese dogs are less likely to exhibit aggressive behavior towards cats and are generally more tolerant of their feline housemates’ antics, and their smaller size makes them less intimidating to cats. Just watch that gorgeous long coat around playful kitty paws.
7. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise breed can be extremely sociable with both humans and other animals, and will often get on well with other pets. These cheerful little puffballs bring joy wherever they waddle, and that includes into the hearts of resident cats.
Bichon Frises have a happy and entertaining personality, making them ideal siblings and playmates with the cat, and this sweet dog breed will accept and befriend any cat who tolerates its charming antics. They’re playful without being overbearing, though their enthusiasm might be too much for a cat who values solitude above all else.
What I love about Bichons is their adaptability. They read the energy of the household and adjust accordingly. If your cat wants to play, great. If not, the Bichon will find entertainment elsewhere. Their hypoallergenic coat is a bonus for families concerned about pet allergies, making them practical as well as personable.
8. Labrador Retriever
The exuberant Labrador Retriever is a lover, not a fighter, and they will happily welcome a cat into their circle of friends. Labs are famous for their friendly, outgoing personalities, and that warmth extends to everyone, including cats.
Labrador Retrievers are renowned for their outgoing and friendly personalities, making them great candidates for cat companionship, and they have a playful and sociable nature, which allows them to form strong bonds with cats. They’re patient with children, gentle with smaller animals, and eager to please their families.
The beauty of a Lab is their emotional intelligence. Labrador retrievers are known for being gentle, patient, and famously tolerant, and they are emotionally in tune and remarkably tolerant. They’ll approach your cat with friendly curiosity rather than aggression, and if the cat hisses or swats, the Lab will simply try again later with the same hopeful optimism.
Conclusion
Dogs and cats can live together peacefully, and these eight breeds prove it beautifully. The secret isn’t just in the breed, though that certainly helps. It’s also in how you introduce them, the training you provide, and the patience you bring to the process.
Every dog has its own personality, just like every cat. Some will become instant best friends who share beds and food bowls. Others will develop a respectful tolerance, keeping their distance but coexisting without drama. Both outcomes are victories in the world of multi-pet households.
If you’ve been dreaming of adding a dog to your cat-loving home, or vice versa, don’t let the old myths stop you. With the right breed and the right approach, you might just end up with adorable photos of your dog and cat cuddled together on the couch. What could be better than that? Did you expect these breeds to be so cat-friendly? Tell us in the comments about your own experiences with dogs and cats living together.
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.
