10 DOG BREED THAT ARE FRIENDLY TO CATS AND PEOPLE

It is widely known that cats and dogs are often portrayed as enemies. However, the reality is that cat and dog siblings can coexist peacefully and even become close friends. If you have a cat and are considering adding a dog breed to your family, or if you have a dog breed and are thinking about getting a new cat, introducing them gradually under supervision and educating yourself on how they can live together harmoniously will help them adjust and get along well. Let’s find out with Petlandlove.

How Different Dog Breed Groups Interact with Cats

While it is beneficial to properly introduce your pets to each other, certain dog breed groups have inherent behaviors that can impact their interactions with cats.

For example, dogs in the Terrier Group were originally bred for hunting, and some breeds in the Hound Group are known for their strong chasing instincts, as noted by the American Kennel Club. This can lead to a cat triggering their predatory instincts when running. Similarly, the Herding Group has a natural inclination to gather and protect livestock, which may not sit well with cats who do not appreciate being herded.

Conversely, dog breed groups that are known for their low energy or relaxed personalities tend to get along best with cats. For instance, the Toy Group consists of lapdogs that are sociable and make great companions for cats, while the Sporting Group includes breeds that are friendly towards both humans and animals.

It is important to remember that these generalizations about dog breed groups are just that – generalizations. There are many breeds within each group that can form strong bonds with cats. The individual personalities of both the dog and cat also play a significant role in their relationship.

Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are excellent companions for cats, and their name perfectly suits their classic breed. These dogs are gentle and understanding, making them quick to welcome cats into the family. It’s important to train Golden Retrievers early on not to chase after the cat. Once this is achieved, the cheerful and friendly nature of Golden Retrievers makes them a great match for cats. Additionally, they are naturally sociable with other animals and humans!

Labrador Retriever

The energetic Labrador Retriever, also known as Lab, is affectionate and friendly rather than aggressive. They will joyfully accept a cat as part of their social group. In addition to getting along with your cat, Labs are big and gentle animals that are perfect companions for your kids. While Labs are not possessive and are happy to coexist with the cat, it’s important that the cat is also willing to share its space with the dog.

Beagle

The friendly Beagle appears to like being around cats, possibly due to its breeding for hunting in groups. This makes it see a cat companion as part of its pack. However, it’s best to have only one Beagle, as having multiple may lead to them forming a pack mentality and potentially ganging up on the cat, as per BeaglePro. Beagles’ sociable nature makes them enjoyable additions to families and they get along well with both humans and other animals.

Pug

A Pug is the perfect example of a sociable breed and another dog that gets along well with cats. If a cat accepts a Pug into their space, they typically become close companions. Since Pugs crave attention, they can form a strong bond and have fun together while their owners are away. Additionally, these dogs prefer relaxing, so they won’t bother chasing your cat. Pugs are gentle by nature and generally pose no threat to small animals like guinea pigs.

Bichon Frise

Bichon Frises are known for their cheerful and amusing nature, which makes them great companions for cats. However, some cats who prefer solitude may find the Bichon Frise’s lively demeanor a bit too much. Nevertheless, this affectionate dog breed will happily befriend any cat that can appreciate (or join in on) its delightful behavior!

Shetland Sheepdog

Even though Shetland Sheepdogs belong to the Herding Group, they are considered to be friendly towards cats. Their gentle demeanor, easy trainability, and friendly disposition make them a great choice for cat owners as they will follow your instructions once they understand how to interact with the cat. Additionally, Shelties have a tendency to bark when they are bored, so having a feline companion can provide them with company and help reduce this behavior!

Basset Hound

Even though Basset Hounds have hunting instincts, they are more focused on finding food than chasing after cats. While they may be a bit stubborn during training, their relaxed nature makes them amicable towards other animals, including cats. Additionally, their easygoing demeanor often encourages cats to snuggle up next to them!

Poodle

All three sizes of Poodles are great companions for cats. Toy Poodles enjoy playing with cats, Miniatures usually get along with them, and Standards act as if cats aren’t there. Poodles are loyal to their families and will also protect their feline friends. Keeping a Poodle active with regular exercise like walks and playtime can help strengthen the bond between the Poodle and cat.

Maltese

The Maltese dog breed is typically gentle and kind towards cats, as they are more focused on relaxing on the couch rather than bothering the cat. However, the cat may end up taking advantage of the Maltese’s sweet nature. To ensure harmony between the two pets, it is important for the cat not to provoke the Maltese, like playing with its long fur. It is advisable to supervise their interactions closely when introducing your cat to your Maltese, so they can coexist peacefully.

Boston Terrier

Although Terriers are usually not a good match for cats, there is an exception with the Boston Terrier, also known as Boston. Even though Bostons may playfully chase the cat, it’s more for fun rather than hunting. The friendly Boston Terrier gets along well with cats and other animals. Learn more about the amusing Boston Terrier.

Cat Breeds and Dogs

Just like dogs, there are cat breeds with distinct personalities that might make them more open to living with a dog companion. Here are some cat breeds that are known to be friendly towards dogs and their main characteristics:

• American Shorthair – Fun-loving, relaxed, self-assured
• Japanese Bobtail – Smart, energetic, affectionate
• Maine Coon – Calm, sociable, loving
• British Shorthair – Easygoing, devoted, self-sufficient
• Abyssinian – Inquisitive, spirited, affectionate

No Need for Sibling Rivalry

Instead of dealing with pets that constantly fight, it is feasible to have furry siblings who live together peacefully or even become companions. The key is to introduce them properly, understand the dos and don’ts of helping dogs and cats get along, and choose breeds that are likely to be friendly towards each other and suit your lifestyle. Before you know it, you might witness your dog and cat forming a bond and you’ll proudly be the pet parent of two lovable furry best friends. After all, everyone loves a dog and cat pair!