15 Dog Breeds That Get Along Well With Cats

However, breeds have certain qualities that have been cultivated by humans for centuries, and some of these make it more likely that two animals will live comfortably in the same apartment.

So if you have a cat and want to get a dog, it’s best to pay attention to…

One of the most popular service dogs, the German Shepherd is known for its loyalty to all members of the family, whether they’re two-legged or four-legged. “Herding dogs feel like their job is to take care of everyone in the household, and the cat is just part of the deal for them, so they get along well together,” says Colleen Demling-Riley, a dog trainer and behavior specialist.

Basset Hounds have their drawbacks, such as having a very loud voice that can disturb the neighbors. However, the breed also has an undeniable advantage: these dogs are very calm and patient (read – by nature, they are not prone to excessive excitement and aggression), which can only play a role in getting to know and living with a cat. “In addition, basset hounds, more than other dogs, like to sit and relax rather than interact with other people in the house – cats will love it,” says veterinarian Guy Sandelowski.

Did you know that the Newfoundland is not only one of the largest dog breeds, but also one of the kindest? “Newfoundlanders were bred by Canadian fishermen, and therefore it is believed that these dogs are completely devoid of hunting instinct – they simply had no one to chase on the rocky island of Newfoundland,” says veterinarian Daniel Bernal. Thanks to such “outlook” on life, representatives of the breed will never consider a cat as game, which will make the coexistence of the couple comfortable both for the animals themselves and for their owners.

The Beagle is a dog that was bred to hunt, and this may seem like a dangerous environment for a kitten. However, this is also an advantage of the breed: as Sandelowski explains, beagles are used to living in large packs, and a cat will be just another companion for them. “Your Persian or Abyssinian may regularly wonder why the beagle keeps barking at the window when the squirrel left 10 minutes ago, but that will be the only problem: the tufts of fur flying during a fight certainly won’t bother you,” Gars explains.

“English bulldogs don’t like water and prefer to sleep rather than play, two traits they share with cats,” jokes Colin. But, seriously, these dogs are known for their friendly attitude towards animals of other species, so they get along well in the same house with cats.

There’s a reason the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is considered one of the best dogs for singles over 50: These dogs are 90 percent love and the other 10 percent affection for their companions. “This breed is ideal for living with a cat. Kings always know when to back off and won’t mind if the cat wants to sleep with them or even eat out of the same bowl,” Daniel says.

“First, the Pekingese is comparable in size to a cat, which means that it will not scare him with its size. Secondly, representatives of this breed are very lenient towards others and forgive them a lot – this makes it an excellent choice for families with children and for cat owners,” says Rachel Geller, feline behaviorist.

Poodles are the most successful in the dog world and easily learn new tricks. They became so thanks to their ability to subtly sense the mood and desires of their owner, and this same quality makes them excellent companions for cats. “The poodle will always understand in time when to leave the cat alone – and at the same time he will gladly play with his mustachioed friend if he wants to,” says Daniel.

Pugs are so friendly that their owners worry that the cat will offend the dog, and not the other way around. “Pugs are a bundle of love. They love company and will happily spend time with the cat when you’re not home. But don’t think that the dog will be tired when you arrive: even if the pug has a friend, you will still have to pay attention to him,” says Colin.

“Maltese dogs are known for their excellent manners when interacting with cats. These dogs, on the one hand, love company very much, on the other hand, at the first request, they will give cats the opportunity to be alone,” says Guy.

Saint Bernards are often called nanny dogs because of their calm temperament and willingness to take care of everyone around them. “It doesn’t matter what temperament your cat has: if he’s self-sufficient and independent, the Saint Bernard won’t bore him with his attention. The dog will forgive any pranks played on a playful kitten, just like a small child,” Colin explains.

According to many experts, the collie is the only herding breed that gets along well with cats. (I wonder if Lassie is responsible for that image? She’s unlikely to chase a kitten up a tree!) The fact is, Danielle says, that collies adore their owners and are willing to cater to their every whim—all you have to do is let the dog know that you don’t want him or her to get into trouble with the cat.

Yes, the Irish Setter is a hunting dog, but in his case we can say: “This is different!” The breed was created to track game, while setters are almost completely devoid of aggression. At the same time, by their nature, the “Irish” are passionate party animals: the more living creatures around the setter, the better he feels.

The Golden Retriever was bred as a hunting dog, but for a very long time it has not only belonged to those who like to shoot ducks. Retrievers are not only considered ideal companions for children, but have recently been used as therapy dogs for children in hospitals and shelters. But this dog gets along well not only with people, but also with other animals, even cats and even rabbits.

Even if the charming butterfly ears of this dog tempt the cat to play, it will not bother him: the Papillon is ready to communicate and have fun with anyone, at any time. In addition, these dogs are as small and fragile as cats, and therefore can easily find a common language with them. (And two more will fit on your lap.)

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