Top 10 Dog Breeds That Get Along Best with Cats

Are you a pet lover who enjoys the company of both dogs and cats? If so, you know how important it is to find dog breeds that get along well with cats. In this article, we will explore the top 10 dog breeds that are known to be cat-friendly companions. Whether you already have a cat or are considering getting one, it's crucial to choose a dog breed that is known for their compatibility with feline companions. By selecting a breed that is naturally inclined to be friendly towards cats, you can create a harmonious and happy environment for all your furry friends.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dog Breed That Gets Along with Cats

Before we dive into the top 10 dog breeds that are known to get along well with cats, let's take a moment to discuss the factors you should consider when choosing a dog breed for your feline friend. While every dog is an individual, and there are exceptions to every rule, certain breeds tend to have more success living harmoniously with cats.

1. Size of the Dog: Larger dog breeds might inadvertently harm a cat during play or by accident. Smaller breeds, on the other hand, may feel intimidated by cats, leading to aggression or fear-based behavior. Finding a dog breed that is a similar size to your cat can help ensure a more balanced relationship.

2. Temperament of the Dog: Some dog breeds are naturally more gentle and calm, which can be a great match for cats. Other breeds might have a more dominant personality, making them less likely to get along with cats. Consider the temperament of the dog breed you are interested in and how it aligns with your cat's personality.

3. Prey Drive of the Dog: A dog's prey drive is a critical factor in determining its friendliness with cats due to the instinctual desire to pursue and capture prey. Dogs with a high prey drive may view cats, with their smaller size and rapid movements, as potential targets for chasing or even hunting. This natural instinct can pose a risk to the safety and well-being of cats in a household, making it essential for owners to carefully assess and manage a dog's prey drive when introducing them to feline companions.

Top 10 Dog Breeds That Get Along Best with Cats

1. Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, and for good reason. Known for their friendly and outgoing nature, Labs are often great companions for cats. Their easygoing demeanor and adaptability make them quick to accept new furry friends. 

These dogs are very intelligent, and training them usually isn't an issue. This breed has one of the best senses of smell and is frequently used in very important roles such as bomb detection in the military, search-and-rescue missions, and many more.

2. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly and gentle nature. These lovable dogs are often described as "people pleasers," which can translate to their interactions with cats as well. Golden Retrievers are typically highly social and adaptable, making them great candidates for multi-pet households.

The Golden Retriever has the unique trait of maintaining its puppyish characteristics well into adulthood. Many people fall in love with this aspect of their dog because they are always wide-eyed and excited to do something new. 

3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are gentle and affectionate dogs that often get along well with cats. Their calm and patient nature makes them excellent companions for feline friends. Cavaliers are known for their adaptability and desire to please, which can help them establish a positive relationship with cats.

This dog breed is one of the largest of the toy breeds, weighing between 13-18 pounds. They have extremely sweet personalities and thrive as house dogs. This dog adores being with its people and will follow them from room to room in the house. While this dog is very trainable, they have soft personalities and will immediately shut down if they are being spoken to in a harsh tone. The proper way to train these dogs is through positive reinforcement and plenty of treats.

4. Collie

Collies are generally good with cats due to their gentle nature, intelligence, and adaptability. With a calm and patient demeanor, Collies tend to form positive relationships with feline companions. Their soft herding instinct often translates into gentle guidance rather than predatory behavior, making cats feel at ease. These dogs are considered among the best family dogs and are friends to all. They love to play with humans and other animals alike and will always be excited to meet someone new. 

5. Maltese

Maltese dogs are often good with cats due to their gentle and friendly nature. With their small size and affectionate disposition, Maltese dogs are less likely to intimidate or pose a threat to cats. Their sociable demeanor allows them to form positive relationships with feline companions, and their adaptable nature enables them to adjust well to living in harmony with cats. Additionally, Maltese dogs are known for their playful yet gentle interactions, which can contribute to a peaceful coexistence with cats in a shared household.

6. Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog is known for their intelligence and gentle disposition, making them good companions for cats. Shelties are terrific dogs for family life and will adapt to the routine of the house very quickly. This breed was originally programmed to guard and herd flocks and this protective instinct is still very much ingrained in them. They will always be on alert and will be quick to bark as soon as they sense the smallest threat.

7. Boxer

Despite their energetic and playful nature, Boxers can be great companions for cats. These dogs are known for their loyalty and love for their families, including their feline friends. Boxers are typically sociable and enjoy the company of other animals.

The personality of these dogs can be best described as friendly, playful, and clownish. They love spending time with their people and are especially cuddly. These dogs are by no means small in size, but that will never stop them from hopping right onto your lap. The Boxer is best suited for an owner who loves to play with their dog and perhaps one who could also put up with a little bit of mischief!

8. Havanese

Havanese dogs are typically affectionate and sociable, which can contribute to very positive relationships with cats. The Havanese is extremely affectionate toward everyone they encounter. Making new friends, both animals and humans, is never an issue for these dogs. 

Weighing only between 7-13 pounds, these little guys make up for in personality what they lack in size. While these pups make great cuddle buddies, they have also been known to excel as therapy dogs. This can very well be due to the fact that they attach themselves to humans, and for that, they earned the nickname 'velcro'.

9. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are affectionate and gentle dogs that can make wonderful companions for cats. These small and friendly dogs are typically known for their sociable nature and their desire to please their owners. Shih Tzus are often adaptable and get along well with other animals, including cats.

Typically weighing between 9-16 pounds, these dogs will love to join you everywhere you go. They especially enjoy meeting new people, and they are persistent when it comes to making new friends. It is hard to ignore these dogs, as they will instantly put a smile on your face, especially when their owners decide to give them a pretty top knot with a bow.

10. Newfoundland

Despite their large size, Newfoundlands are often gentle giants and can coexist peacefully with cats. Given the Newfoundlands large size, it is important to train them to behave in a more gentle manner around your cat as they can potentially injure them accidentally. 

This big teddy bear makes an amazing family pet. They have a special affinity for children and will act as their protectors at all times. The Newfoundland is also extremely intelligent and will learn new commands at a speedy rate. Just make sure to train them from an early age because they grow up quickly, and they grow up BIG.

Conclusion

Choosing a dog breed that gets along well with cats is an important decision for any pet lover. By considering factors such as size, energy level, and temperament, you can increase the likelihood of a successful relationship between your dog and cat. 

Remember, every dog and cat is unique, and individual personalities can vary within breeds. Proper socialization, training, and supervised introductions are key to ensuring a positive and harmonious relationship between your furry friends. With careful consideration and patience, you can create a loving and peaceful home for both your dog and cat.