10 Dog Breeds That Get Along Well with Cats
Michelle Milliken
There are cat people and there are dog people. Then there are folks who love them both equally. If you're in that last camp, you may be wondering which dog breed is least apt to make your pets, well, fight like cats and dogs. Here are a few breeds that tend to fit the bill.
Basset Hound
Basset hounds are known for being friendly with the whole family, kids and pets included. Their easy-going and calm nature means the presence of a feline won't ruffle their feathers too much. The only snag in the plan might be their stubborn streak. Once that's overcome, though, don't be surprised if this amiable breed snuggles up to your cat from time to time.
Beagle
Beagles are another friendly breed that are a good choice for families with kids and other pets. They were initially bred as pack dogs, so they're used to sharing space with other animals and love companionship. Even a cat's companionship will do! One caveat is that if you have more than one beagle, they may develop a pack mentality and team up against the cat. However, a beagle is generally loving toward other family members, and, in a one-on-one situation, they will likely see a cat sibling as another potential cuddle buddy.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise breed is very playful, happy, and gentle. Their personality makes them good for homes with kids and homes with cats, and they're apt to shower them both with affection. Due to their energetic and playful nature, they're perfect for cats that are tolerant of some shenanigans. If you have a feline that fits that bill, they could become great playmates.
Boston Terrier
Boston terriers tend to be well-behaved, playful, and good natured. This means they're usually good in a home with other pets, even cats. They are also known to be easy to train, so if difficulties arise at first, you should be able to smooth them over. When given enough time together, these canines can be a great companion for cats, even if they might enjoy a good chase from time to time.
Bulldog
Bulldogs are another easygoing, friendly breed that makes a good addition to the family. Though they're not always fond of other dogs, they maintain their amiable and relatively calm nature around cats. Bulldogs can also maintain a bit of a stubborn streak, but a good introduction and some rewards-based training should help.
Collie
Collies are another well-behaved, gentle, and loyal breed. Their personalities make them great for kids and other pets, including cats. In fact, their loyalty will often leave them just as devoted to and affectionate with their furry siblings as they are with their human ones.
Golden Retriever
Golden retrievers are a good companion to kids, as well as to cats. They're known for being happy, easygoing, and playful. They make fast friends with those around them, which can even allow them to win over felines in the home. It's important to train this breed not to chase these new friends, but they learn quickly, so that can be done without a hitch.
Labrador Retriever
Labrador retrievers are equally as amiable and good-natured as golden retrievers. Provided they get enough training to tone down their excited nature, they can be great with other pets and put up with a lot from them. If your cat gets a little too feisty with this canine, it will likely take it all in stride.
Poodle
Poodles are obedient, smart, easy to train, and find a way to get along with everyone. This includes kids, other dogs, and any felines in the house. Fortunately, this holds true for standard poodles, toy poodles, and miniature poodles. Just make sure they get plenty of exercise, training, and attention so they don't act out.
Pug
Pugs are a friendly, generally easygoing breed with a playful, stubborn streak. These silly pups enjoy attention and aren't all that fond of being left alone. With their amiable personalities and love of companionship, they would enjoy a feline buddy when you head out for the day.
Cat and Dog BFFs
Personalities can certainly differ from animal to animal, so adopting one of these breeds may just mean a quiet tolerance between your pets. However, there's also a good chance they'll get along quite well in the long run. Here's to hoping they become lifelong friends who can drive you a little crazy together.
