10 Large Dog Breeds That Are Cool With a Cat in The House

Have you ever imagined the heart-melting sight of a big, gentle dog and a curious cat sharing sunbeams on your living room floor? For many pet lovers, the idea of harmony between a large dog and a feline friend can seem like a dream too good to be true. The truth, however, is both surprising and inspiring: plenty of large dog breeds are not just tolerant but genuinely friendly with cats! If you’re hoping to expand your furry family without sparking a household rivalry, these ten large breeds could be the perfect peacemakers. Their gentle nature, patience, and easygoing personalities make them true cat companions—sometimes even best friends.

Golden Retriever

Big dogs and tiny cats might seem like an odd couple—but with the right temperament, they can become the best of friends. While not every large breed is naturally feline-friendly, many are surprisingly gentle, patient, and perfectly content to share their space with a cat (or two). Whether you already have a cat and are considering a dog, or you’re blending households, choosing the right breed makes all the difference.

Golden Retrievers are often called the ultimate family dog, and with good reason. Their sunny disposition and remarkable patience make them excellent housemates—not just for people, but for cats as well. Goldens tend to approach new situations with curiosity rather than fear, so when a cat enters their world, they’re more likely to wag their tail than raise their hackles. These dogs are known for being gentle-mouthed, which means they’re less likely to play rough or accidentally hurt a smaller animal. With proper introductions and a little supervision, Golden Retrievers frequently form strong, affectionate bonds with feline housemates. Their eagerness to please also makes training and boundary-setting with cats a breeze. It’s not unusual to catch a Golden and a cat napping together, forging a friendship that melts hearts daily.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are another top contender for cat-friendly homes. Labs are famous for their playful, loving personalities and their reputation as easygoing companions. While their size might seem intimidating, Labs are surprisingly gentle when interacting with smaller animals. They’re naturally social and thrive when surrounded by both humans and other pets, including cats. Their adaptability helps them adjust quickly to a multi-pet household, and their intelligence ensures they understand when to be gentle. Give them a chance to get to know a cat slowly, and you’ll often see the beginnings of a lifelong friendship. Labradors seem to understand boundaries, often respecting the cat’s space while extending a playful paw when invited.

Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their calm and affectionate nature. Despite their impressive size and strength, these fluffy giants possess a surprisingly soft heart. Berners are incredibly loyal and tend to be gentle with animals smaller than themselves, making them a wonderful match for cats. They aren’t overly energetic indoors, preferring to lounge and keep an eye on their family—cats included. With their thick coats and sweet faces, it’s easy to imagine them snuggled up next to a feline friend on a cold day. Bernese Mountain Dogs are rarely aggressive and often appear happy to let a cat take the lead in their interactions. Their slow, considerate movements put cats at ease, allowing for peaceful coexistence and, sometimes, true companionship.

Newfoundland

Nicknamed “gentle giants,” Newfoundlands are as sweet as they are massive. These dogs are known for their loving, patient demeanor and their instinct to nurture and protect. When it comes to cats, Newfoundlands are usually calm and non-threatening, making them an excellent choice for a multi-pet home. They’re unlikely to chase or roughhouse with cats, preferring instead to coexist peacefully. Newfoundlands are naturally empathetic and seem to sense when a cat wants to be left alone or when it’s okay to share a cozy spot. Their mellow personality means they rarely get jealous, and they often become a comforting presence for shy or nervous cats. Watching a Newfoundland and a cat nap side by side is nothing short of heartwarming.

Boxer

Boxers are full of personality and energy, but beneath their playful exterior lies a heart of gold. Although they love to romp and play, Boxers are surprisingly gentle with cats, especially if they’re introduced while young. They tend to view cats as part of the pack and are quick to accept them as family. Boxers are intelligent enough to understand when a cat doesn’t want to play and will often respect a feline’s personal space. Their loyalty ensures they look out for all members of the household, including their feline friends. With regular exercise and positive reinforcement, Boxers can become not just tolerant but genuinely affectionate companions for cats.

Collie

Collies are famous for their intelligence and their almost uncanny ability to tune in to the emotions of those around them. This makes them particularly good at understanding the needs of smaller, more sensitive pets like cats. Collies are often gentle, nurturing, and protective, treating cats with a quiet respect that helps build trust. These dogs are rarely aggressive and are more likely to herd their feline friends than to chase them. Collies thrive in a harmonious household, and their calm presence can help even the most timid cat feel at home. With their long, flowing coats and expressive eyes, Collies and cats often look like a picture-perfect pair.

Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees might look imposing, but they are known for their serene and nurturing temperament. Originally bred to guard livestock, these dogs have an inborn sense of protectiveness and gentleness, especially toward smaller animals. Great Pyrenees are typically patient and slow to anger, making them ideal for sharing space with a cat. They don’t have a strong prey drive, so they’re less likely to see a cat as something to chase. Instead, they’ll often watch over their feline housemates as part of their “flock.” Their laid-back attitude and steadfast loyalty help create a peaceful, safe home where cats can thrive without fear.

Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhounds are the gentle giants of the dog world—towering in stature but remarkably soft-hearted. Their calm, easygoing nature makes them surprisingly compatible with cats. Irish Wolfhounds are not known for being aggressive or territorial, and their patient demeanor means they rarely feel threatened by a cat’s antics. Despite their size, they move with a quiet grace that puts cats at ease. These dogs are happiest when they can relax with their family, and they’re often content to share their space with a feline companion. With careful introductions, Irish Wolfhounds can become devoted cat protectors, forging a bond built on mutual respect.

Standard Poodle

Standard Poodles are often underestimated when it comes to their compatibility with cats. Behind their elegant appearance lies a highly intelligent and adaptable personality. Poodles are quick learners and can easily be taught to respect a cat’s boundaries. Their playful but gentle demeanor makes them great companions for cats that like a little fun but need their space respected. Poodles are not typically aggressive and are eager to please, making them sensitive to the needs of their feline housemates. Their hypoallergenic coats are just an extra bonus in a multi-pet home, reducing shedding and dander. Standard Poodles can quickly become best buddies with a cat, especially if raised together.

Basset Hound

Basset Hounds may be short in stature, but their bodies are long and their personalities even longer. These dogs are famously laid-back, with a mellow attitude that makes them excellent companions for cats. Basset Hounds are not usually high-energy, preferring to lounge and take life at a slower pace. They are unlikely to chase or bother a cat, instead choosing to coexist peacefully. Their affectionate nature ensures they’re happy to share attention and space with feline friends. Basset Hounds’ low-key temperament helps create a relaxed environment where both dog and cat can thrive without competition or stress. Their soulful eyes and gentle disposition often win over even the most skeptical of cats.