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Just because a dog loves she, doesn’t mean they’ll be into your feline friend. Thankfully, having both types of fur babies in your home is far from impossible. The first rule of thumb is to introduce the animals calmly and to keep them separate at first. This can be easier if a dog is already trained or you’re adopting a kitten (they are more adaptable), but a lot just depends on what type of dog you have. According to pet experts, certain breeds make better canine companions than others. Read on to discover the best dog breeds that get along with cats.
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Golden Retrievers are known to love everyone they meet, and that includes children and cats. “The golden retriever is one of the gentlest dog breeds out there and gets along just as well with other animals as they do with people,” he says Sabrina Kong, DVM, a vet at WeLoveDoodles. Kong attributes this kindness to their “loving and tender nature” and says it allows them to “easily accept cats as part of the family, to the point where they even defend and care for them, just like her.” would do to their owners”. Consider a Golden Retriever if you are looking for an energetic gun dog that plays well with others.
Goldendoodles also get along well with cats as they are friendly like golden retrievers with the intelligence of poodles. While Goldendoodles might not be like that best If you are friends with your tabby, they both like to do their own thing. This might be a better fit for an older cat that doesn’t feel like running around as much.
These floppy ears won’t give you any trouble because they’re so relaxed, making them another solid option if you already have a feline friend. “Basset hounds have the personality to get along with cats,” he promises Dwight Alleyne, DVM, a veterinary consultant at Betterpet. He describes this breed as “generally docile, reserved, and has a reputation for being friendly with other pets.”
It helps that Basset Hounds aren’t as active as some other breeds, so they won’t be constantly chasing after your cats. They’re also small — the American Kennel Club (AKC) says they stand “no higher than 14 inches at the shoulder” — so they’ll be of a similar level to a kitten.
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Not only are Labrador Retrievers cute and cuddly, they make perfect pets for families that already have a cat (or other dog!). After all, according to the AKC, they are the most popular dog breed in the United States. “Labs and cats can live under the same roof and often become good friends,” she says Aaron Riceexperienced dog trainer and co-owner of the Stayyy training facility.
“Although Labrador Retrievers are very active breeds, they tend to be loyal, especially to other pets in the household, so they can make great companion cats,” adds Alleyne. You just need to make sure you have time to devote to both of your pets as Labs require lots of long walks and activities.
Beagles are hunting dogs, which might make them seem a bit menacing at first, but they have a gentle side that might even make them consider adopting a cat as their own. “Although Beagles are designed to hunt in packs, they tend to have a happy disposition that allows them to get along with cats,” explains Alleyne. “They love to express their love for others and are likely to accept a cat as a member of their pack.”
Kong agrees, adding that the beagles’ pack mentality means they get along better with other animals. They are also good with small children and other dogs, according to the AKC. Like Labradors, Beagles require a lot of physical activity, but it’s well worth giving your cat the company she’s been craving.
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Corgis’ calm demeanor makes them perfect for multi-pet households. “Corgis are such a great breed…if you already own a cat or are planning to add one to the family. Because of their similar temperament and size, corgis and cats can get along really well,” says Alex Crow, a vet affiliated with Happiest Dog. “When corgis and cats are together they tend to be playful and may chase each other around your home. It can be fun to watch and will help entertain each other.”
However, Crow warns that when you first introduce the pair, “a corgi might try to herd the cat or mistake it for a nuisance rather than a friend,” and is acting on instinct. Make sure you insert them slowly and gently at first.
The AKC says pugs “live to love and to be loved in return.” This inquisitive breed is at home in a small city apartment or in the country with plenty of space. They also get along well with children, the elderly, or a large group of other Pugs. They adapt easily, which means they do well with another pet in their home. “Pugs are arguably one of the friendliest dog breeds…due to their social and welcoming attitude, pugs are almost guaranteed to get along with cats,” Kong says. “Most pugs hate fighting and chasing and love to cuddle and sleep, making them the perfect companion for cats,” she adds.
As long as you stay away from puppies, who are known to be aggressive, and give the cat and dog a relaxed space to socialize, your transition to a two-pet household should be relatively seamless.
