Some cats and dogs make great housemates. But they are two different animals. As such, they have a different distinctive personality. Not many cats and dogs blend. However, there are certain dog breeds great with cats. Which are they? Well, today we will talk about the best dog breeds if you have a cat in your home as well.
How to introduce these two?
Even if you have the best dog breeds great with cats, you need a proper introduction between the two. Yes, some cats and dogs happily coexist together. And even some unlikely friendships might occur. That is, as long as you give them enough time to comfortably know each other. That is the key. Even with the best cat friendly dog.
I know there are dog people and there are cat people. But when you love both, it is your job as a dog owner to make sure your dog gets along with his feline friend.
Keep in mind that even with the breeds we mention, they are generalizations. Some dog breeds that are not cat-friendly might co-exist with cats. Now, generally speaking, terriers and hounds are predisposed to hunt little vermin. Herding breeds have a strong desire to herd anything that moves. Some cats might find herding annoying.
The best way to introduce cats and dogs is by leaving both to have their space. If you can, physically separate the space between the two. If not, always make sure to leave space for your cat to run away and hide on a safe spot.
With that in mind, here are some cat friendly dogs.
Maltese
This dog is just charming and cheerful. They love almost everything around them. Maltese is a lively dog breed that loves to play. They make friends easily and quickly with furry friends. Playing with someone close to their size, which is a cat, could be a great alternative.
Bonus: your cat will have a cozy snuggle buddy for chilly days.
Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise and Maltese are very similar breeds. Both are great with cats. The Bichon Frise, for example, is a happy-go-lucky small dog. This white fluff loves everybody, and that includes cats.
They will see any cat breeds as potential playmates. Their lively and bubbly personality will result in lots of playtime.
Basset hound
We said in the beginning that a hound breed might see cats like prey. But the Basset Hound is a special kind of dog. With its long and floppy ears, this dog breed is as mellow as you can get. Incredibly loyal and patient, this dog will have the patience you need to introduce a cat into the household. He will also give the kitty enough time for acclimation.
Beagle
Here is another hound breed. The Beagle was bred to hunt in packs. But they are open to sharing their space with other animals and people.
Beagles thrive on interaction with other animals, dogs, pets, people, and even cats. The only downside is your cat might wonder why your dog howls. And that can happen when a Beagle gets excited to play.
English Bulldog
This dog might appear as a four-legged bully. But the English bulldog is great with other pets and cats. They might not make friends with other dogs, because of their bodies like a tank, but cats are welcomed.
As a lazy dog, the English bulldog will be more than happy to let your kitten sleep next to him. They have so many things in common with cat breeds.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
When you talk about a toy breed that gets along with cats, you have to mention the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
This puppy has a heart of gold and will love everyone he meets. Cavalier Spaniel is probably the best dog to get when you have kittens in your home. Their intuitive nature provides affection and encouragement is ideal for sharing a home with a cat.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel knows exactly when to back off and leave their feline friend happy alone.
Colie
You are probably wondering how a herding dog makes it on the list. Well, Collies are an exception to the rule. Do you remember Lassie? This remarkably loyal dog breed is smart and sweet. They can easily learn how to interact and adjust to living with a cat sibling.
Golden Retriever
If you are looking for the best dog to make friends with cats, this is it. The Golden Retriever is the happiest dog alive and greets everyone and anyone with joy. That includes cats, people, other dogs, and everything else.
Simply put, the Golden Retriever has a limitless supply of empathy and compassion. He is goofy, playful, adaptable, and eager to please.
Poodle
You can choose between toy breed, standard, miniature poodle, and you will still get a friend for your cat. Poodles are good-natured, eager to please, and just too smart. As some of the most intelligent dog breeds, they can learn everything.
And surely enough, your poodle will learn easily when your cat is cranky and back off before an incident occurs.
Labrador Retriever
Similar to the Golden Retriever, the Labrador Retriever loves everyone. He doesn’t have an ounce of aggression in him. So he will never show his teeth in dislike to the cat. This is what makes Labs great guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, emotional support dogs, and everything in between.
This dog breed is gentle, kind, and always happy and friendly.
Pug
Similar to the English Bulldog, Pugs are goofy and aloof. They also sleep most of the time. So, your cat can have a napping friend.
Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is a sweet people-pleaser. But this breed also enjoys the company of other animals. It is one of the best dog breeds great with cats.
Playful and congenial, this puppy loves attention. And they do not care who gives them that attention.
German Shepherd
Famous as one of the best guard dog breeds, the German Shepherd is known for his loyalty. That loyalty extends to the entire family, be it humans or animals. This dog feels it is his job to look after family members.
With proper socialization, they will be best friends with cats. Your German Shepherd will consider the cat as part of the pack.
Bernese Mountain Dog
If you need a dog friend for your cat, get a Bernese mountain dog. This sweet-tempered puppy is a great addition to the family. This working breed thrives in a family that enjoys outdoor activities. That might make a great combination for a cat who loves “me time” indoors.
