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15 Dog Breeds That Are Great Companions for Cats

By: Ejay Camposano
A college graduate with a degree in Electrical Engineering, Ejay has a diverse background that combines technical expertise with a passion for pets and is now one of the content writers at IHD. Read more
| November 20, 2023

Finding a dog breed that gets along well with cats is crucial for pet owners looking to have both in their households. Certain dog breeds are known for their gentle, tolerant, and sometimes playful nature towards cats, making them more likely to develop harmonious relationships with feline companions. Here are 15 dog breeds that are typically great companions for cats.

1. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly and tolerant nature, making them well-suited to living with cats. They are generally gentle and patient, which helps in forming a bond with a feline housemate. Their sociable personality often leads to harmonious interactions with other animals, including cats.

2. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are another breed known for their good-natured disposition and ability to get along with other pets, including cats. Labs are often easygoing and patient, qualities that help in building a positive relationship with feline companions.

3. Bichon Frise

Bichon Frises are small, cheerful, and typically non-aggressive, which can make them a good match for a household with cats. Their playful and affectionate nature can lead to friendly interactions with feline housemates, provided proper introductions are made.

4. Beagle

Beagles are sociable and tolerant dogs, often getting along well with other pets, including cats. Their temperament and playful nature can lead to positive interactions with cats, especially if they are socialized together from a young age.

5. Pug

Pugs are known for their friendly and sociable personality. They usually get along well with other animals, including cats. Pugs are generally not aggressive and can coexist peacefully with feline friends, often enjoying their company.

6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are gentle and affectionate dogs that typically get along well with cats. Their friendly and easygoing nature can lead to positive interactions with feline companions, making them a suitable choice for multi-pet households.

7. Boxer

Boxers are known for their playful and energetic nature, but they can also be gentle with other animals, including cats. Their playful demeanor can sometimes lead to fun interactions with feline friends, especially if they are socialized together early on.

8. Collie

Collies, both Rough and Smooth varieties, are known for their gentle and friendly demeanor, often getting along well with cats. They are typically patient and not prone to aggression, making them suitable companions for cats.

9. Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are gentle giants known for their calm and patient nature, which often extends to their interactions with cats. Their laid-back personality can make them good companions for cats, as they are typically not aggressive or overly excitable.

10. Papillon

Papillons, despite their small size, have a friendly and sociable temperament that often extends to other animals, including cats. They are energetic yet gentle, which can lead to playful and harmonious interactions with feline friends.

11. Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdogs are intelligent and gentle, often getting along well with cats. Their herding instincts may lead them to be curious about cats, but they are usually respectful and can form close bonds with feline housemates.

12. Maltese

Maltese dogs are gentle and affectionate, typically getting along well with other pets, including cats. Their friendly and non-threatening nature can help in building a positive relationship with a feline companion.

13. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them good candidates for living with cats. They are typically not aggressive and can coexist peacefully with feline friends, often enjoying their company.

14. Bulldog

Bulldogs are generally easygoing and can get along well with cats. Their laid-back nature often makes them indifferent to other animals, and they can coexist peacefully with feline housemates in a shared living space.

15. Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are typically friendly and gentle, qualities that can make them suitable companions for cats. Their sociable nature and tendency to be non-aggressive can lead to positive interactions with feline friends in the household.

Conclusion

These 15 dog breeds are known for their ability to get along with cats, making them ideal choices for households looking to have both as pets. Their gentle, friendly, and sometimes playful nature allows them to coexist peacefully and even form strong bonds with feline companions. Proper introduction and socialization are key to fostering a harmonious relationship between dogs and cats, regardless of the breed.