Have you ever wondered if your dog could actually get along with a cat? The idea might seem laughable to some—after all, aren’t dogs and cats supposed to be lifelong rivals? But the truth is, plenty of dog breeds have hearts so big (and personalities so gentle) that they’d not only tolerate a feline roommate, but might just welcome one with open paws. If you’re dreaming of a household where tails wag and purrs rumble in harmony, you’ll want to meet these 15 dog breeds that are famously happy to call a cat their sibling.
Labrador Retriever: The Ultimate Friendly Companion
When it comes to interspecies friendships, dogs and cats may not seem like the most likely pair—but some dog breeds are surprisingly well-suited to life with a feline sibling. While not every pup is thrilled to share space with a cat, certain breeds are naturally more gentle, tolerant, and social, making them ideal companions for their whiskered housemates.
Labrador Retrievers are known for their boundless enthusiasm and social personalities. They seem to have never met a stranger—whether human or four-legged. Labs are gentle, tolerant, and eager to please, which makes them natural candidates for peaceful cohabitation with cats. Their playful nature can actually bring out the kitten in a cat, leading to adorable play sessions and mutual naps. While Labs may initially want to play a bit too rambunctiously, they quickly learn to respect a cat’s boundaries. Their adaptable temperament helps them adjust to almost any household dynamic, making them one of the top breeds for multi-pet families.
Golden Retriever: Gentle and Affectionate
Golden Retrievers have a reputation for being one of the gentlest breeds out there. Their loving nature extends to all creatures, and they often display patience and curiosity around cats. Goldens are sensitive to the emotions of those around them, so they’ll notice if a cat feels nervous and likely respond with calm, non-threatening behavior. Their easygoing disposition means they’re unlikely to chase or intimidate a feline sibling. Instead, they often form close bonds, sharing snuggles and even beds. With their puppy-dog eyes and wagging tails, Goldens are the kind of friends every cat deserves.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: The Sweet-Tempered Aristocrat
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have a regal look, but their personality is pure sweetness. They are small, gentle, and thrive on companionship—whether it’s from humans, other dogs, or even cats. Cavaliers are rarely aggressive and tend to avoid conflict, preferring instead to cuddle up and share warmth. Their quiet confidence can be reassuring to shy cats, and their sociable attitude makes them eager to make new friends. With a Cavalier in the house, your cat might just find a new nap buddy on the couch.
Papillon: The Playful Butterfly Dog
Despite their small size and delicate appearance, Papillons are full of energy and love to play. These little dogs are curious and intelligent, always up for a new adventure—especially if it means making a feline friend. Papillons usually respect a cat’s space but are also persistent enough to win over even the most aloof kitty. Their playful antics can be a source of entertainment for both pets and owners, and their gentle demeanor means they’re unlikely to pose a threat. Think of them as the life of the party, ready to turn any ordinary day into a playful romp.
Poodle: Smart, Adaptable, and Friendly
Poodles, whether Toy, Miniature, or Standard, are renowned for their intelligence and adaptability. Their keen sense of social cues allows them to understand what their feline housemates need. Poodles are often calm and respectful, making them excellent companions for cats that value their personal space. Their playful yet gentle energy can match a cat’s, leading to lots of amusing chases and games that stop just short of chaos. Plus, their hypoallergenic coats mean less sneezing for everyone—cats included!
Basset Hound: The Laid-Back Lounge Expert
Basset Hounds are famously relaxed and unbothered by most things—including cats. This breed is content to lounge around the house, making them a perfect match for a laid-back feline. Bassets are not prone to chasing, thanks to their low energy and easygoing attitude. They’re more likely to share a sunny spot than start a rivalry, and their affection can often win over even the most skeptical cats. With their soulful eyes and floppy ears, Basset Hounds have a way of making everyone feel at ease.
Beagle: Curious, Social, and Gentle
Beagles are energetic and sociable, always eager for new experiences and friends. While their hunting instincts might make you think they’d chase cats, most Beagles are surprisingly tolerant and gentle with feline housemates. Their pack-oriented mentality means they see other animals as potential friends, not foes. Beagles often engage in playful antics, and if introduced properly, they can develop strong bonds with cats. Their curiosity can sometimes lead to mischief, but it usually just results in lots of entertaining moments for everyone.
Boxer: The Playful Protector
Boxers are big-hearted clowns who love to play and protect. Their loyalty extends to every member of the family, including cats. Boxers are known for their patience with children and other pets, and while they might try to initiate a game of chase, their intentions are usually friendly. They’re quick learners, so they’ll soon figure out a cat’s limits and respect them. Boxers’ exuberant personalities can bring a sense of fun to the household, and their protective streak means they’ll look out for their feline siblings, too.
Collie: The Gentle Herding Dog
Collies are natural herders, but their gentle and intuitive nature means they’re just as likely to herd with care as with gusto. These dogs are sensitive to the needs of other animals and tend to be calm and accepting of cats. Collies’ intelligence makes them quick to pick up on household rules, and they’re often eager to please. They might even try to “organize” the cat, gently guiding them around the house, but it’s all done with a soft touch. Collies are happiest in harmonious households, and they can help foster peace between all pets.
Maltese: The Petite Peacekeeper
The Maltese may be tiny, but their hearts are huge. These little dogs thrive on companionship and are rarely aggressive or dominant. Maltese are known for their gentle approach, making them ideal for sharing space with a cat. They enjoy snuggling and are unlikely to challenge a cat’s authority, often deferring to their feline friends. Their small size makes them less intimidating, and their playful personality means they can keep up with a cat’s energy bursts. In a Maltese, a cat might find the perfect partner for both playtime and nap time.
Newfoundland: The Gentle Giant
Newfoundlands are known as “gentle giants” for a reason. Despite their massive size, they have some of the softest hearts in the canine world. Newfies are calm, patient, and incredibly tolerant of other animals, including cats. Their slow-moving nature and lack of prey drive mean they’re more likely to share a cuddle than chase after a cat. They often act as protectors, watching over every member of the household with gentle eyes. For cats who like to lounge, a Newfoundland’s fluffy coat makes an irresistible pillow.
Pug: The Comical Couch Potato
Pugs are famous for their silly antics and endless love of lounging. These little dogs are sociable and adaptable, happy to share their space with cats. Pugs are rarely aggressive and tend to get along well with animals of all kinds. Their playful but non-threatening demeanor makes them great companions for cats who enjoy a bit of gentle fun. With their expressive faces and charming personalities, pugs can turn even the most indifferent cat into a friend. Plus, their penchant for cuddling means your cat might gain a new snuggle partner.
Shetland Sheepdog: The Sensitive Sweetheart
Shetland Sheepdogs, or “Shelties,” are known for their intelligence and gentle temperament. They’re highly trainable and sensitive to the needs of their family, which often includes being respectful and kind to cats. Shelties are playful but not overly boisterous, making them unlikely to overwhelm a feline sibling. Their herding instincts might come out as gentle nudges or watchful supervision, but their actions are always rooted in care. Shelties thrive in environments where everyone gets along, and they often become best friends with the family cat.
Cocker Spaniel: The Affectionate Socialite
Cocker Spaniels are affectionate, friendly, and eager to be part of the family—no matter how many legs its members have. They’re typically gentle and get along well with other pets, including cats. Cockers are sensitive to the moods of those around them and will often approach cats with calm curiosity. Their playful side means they can provide entertainment for a playful cat, while their loving nature ensures plenty of cuddles. Cocker Spaniels adapt well to multi-pet households and are always up for making new friends.
German Shepherd: The Loyal Guardian
German Shepherds are often seen as serious working dogs, but they have a softer side, especially with family members—including feline ones. With proper introduction and training, German Shepherds can be gentle, protective, and respectful of cats. Their intelligence and eagerness to learn help them understand boundaries quickly. While their size might seem intimidating, their loyalty means they’ll include the family cat in their protective instincts. Many German Shepherds and cats develop strong, affectionate bonds, surprising those who expect otherwise.
Choosing the right dog breed can make all the difference when it comes to fostering harmony between your canine and feline companions. The breeds we’ve explored tend to be patient, sociable, and adaptable—traits that help them thrive alongside even the most particular cats. While each dog is an individual, starting with a breed that’s known for being cat-friendly gives your pets the best chance to bond, play, and coexist peacefully. With thoughtful introductions and consistent supervision, your dog and cat just might become the best of friends.
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.
