When considering adding a new furry friend to a household that already includes a cat, choosing a dog breed known for being cat-friendly is essential. While some dogs have a strong prey drive or territorial instincts that might not mesh well with feline roommates, other breeds are known for their gentle and sociable nature, making them surprisingly good with cats. These breeds range from the popular to the less well-known, each with unique traits that make them great companions for humans and their feline friends. Here’s a look at eight dog breeds that are surprisingly good with cats.
8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small, affectionate breed known for its friendly and gentle disposition. These dogs are naturally sociable and get along well with other animals, including cats. Cavaliers have a low prey drive, which means they are less likely to see cats as something to chase. Their calm and patient nature makes them well-suited to living with felines, as they are generally not aggressive and are more likely to want to cuddle up with their furry roommates than chase them around the house. Cavaliers are also highly adaptable, making them an excellent choice for households with cats.
7. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is another small breed known for its cheerful and friendly personality. Bichons are playful and affectionate and usually get along well with other animals, including cats. These gentle and patient dogs make them a good match for feline companions. Their sociable nature means they enjoy the company of other pets and are less likely to be aggressive or territorial. Bichons also have a low prey drive, making them less inclined to chase after cats. With their friendly and easygoing nature, Bichon Frises can quickly become good friends with the cats in their household.
6. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly and tolerant nature, making them one of the best breeds for households with multiple pets. These dogs are gentle, patient, and highly sociable, making them great companions for cats. Golden Retrievers have a low prey drive and are usually more interested in playing and socializing than chasing smaller animals. Their easygoing temperament means they can adapt well to living with cats and are more likely to form a bond with their feline roommates. With their loyal and affectionate nature, Golden Retrievers can quickly become best friends with the cats in their home.
5. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are another breed known for their friendly and tolerant disposition. Labs are social and outgoing and usually get along well with other animals, including cats. These dogs have a low prey drive and are more interested in playing and interacting with their human and animal companions than in chasing smaller animals. Labs are also patient and gentle, making them a good match for households with cats. Their friendly and adaptable nature means they can easily adjust to living with feline roommates and are more likely to form a close bond with them.
4. Beagle
Beagles are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them a good choice for households with cats. These dogs are gentle and patient, and usually get along well with other animals. Beagles have a low prey drive compared to other breeds, so they are less likely to see cats as something to chase. Their friendly and easygoing nature means they are more likely to want to play with their feline roommates than to be aggressive or territorial. Beagles are also highly adaptable, making them a great choice for households with cats.
3. Papillon
Papillons are small, friendly dogs known for their playful and affectionate nature. These dogs are gentle and sociable, making them a good match for households with cats. Papillons have a low prey drive, making them less likely to chase after cats. Their friendly and outgoing nature means they enjoy the company of other pets and are more likely to form a bond with their feline roommates. Papillons are also highly adaptable and can easily adjust to living with cats. With their playful and affectionate nature, Papillons can quickly become good friends with the cats in their household.
2. Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, or Sheltie, is known for its intelligence and gentle disposition. These dogs are highly trainable and usually get along well with other animals, including cats. Shelties have a low prey drive and are more interested in herding than chasing smaller animals. Their gentle and patient nature makes them a good match for households with cats. Shelties are also very loyal and affectionate, and they enjoy the company of other pets. With their friendly and adaptable nature, Shelties can quickly form a bond with the cats in their household.
1. Poodle
Poodles are known for their intelligence and friendly disposition, making them a great choice for households with cats. These dogs are highly trainable and adaptable and usually get along well with other animals. Poodles have a low prey drive and are more interested in playing and interacting with their human and animal companions than in chasing smaller animals. Their friendly and gentle nature means they can easily adjust to living with cats and are likelier to form a close bond with them. Whether you have a Standard, Miniature, or Toy Poodle, this breed can quickly become best friends with the cats in your home.
In conclusion, finding a dog breed that gets along well with cats doesn’t have to be a challenge. These eight breeds, from the gentle Cavalier King Charles Spaniel to the intelligent and adaptable Poodle, are all known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them great companions for humans and their feline friends. With their low prey drive and gentle disposition, these breeds can easily adjust to living with cats and are likelier to form close bonds with their feline roommates. If you want to add a dog to your household that already includes a cat consider one of these cat-friendly breeds for a harmonious and happy home.
