Are you a fan of cats and dogs? Do you have a cat and want to get a dog? Then you may be wondering which dog breeds get along with cats.
Although you can always train a dog to get along with a cat or even to not annoy their feline siblings, there is something to be said for actually picking a breed based on their temperament. For some dog breeds, it is just natural that they will be able to get along with cats easier. And if you are looking for a dog that really will keep the peace in the house, then these are the breeds you want to consider first.
While there are other dog breeds that are likely to get along with cats, here are five we chose based on not only temperament and what we learned from the American Kennel Club, but also our own experiences as dog and cat owners/lovers.
5 dog breeds that get along with cats naturally
- Labrador Retrievers – As someone who had not only a Labrador Retriever, but also two cats at the time, I know firsthand that these pups can easily get along with their feline siblings. In fact, our lab was so in love with his kitty siblings that where one would go, the other would follow. And according to the AKC, “These enthusiastic dogs are far larger than a cat, but they have more than enough love to give.” We can’t help but agree with that description.
- Collies – At one point, we also had a Collie mix in our home when I was in school and while she was a herding dog through and through, she also loved the kitties of the house. Much like other Collies, our pup was not just tolerant of the cats in the house, but really did love them and want to make sure that they were part of the family, just like they would a child.
- Pugs – Although we have never had a Pug, I have seen them interact with cats before and often times they are best friends who know how to engage in some play fighting before enjoying quiet time together. It’s often said that cats are able to keep a Pug entertained when their owners are gone, while the Pug adds a bit of play to the cat’s life as well.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels – This is one of those dog breeds that can actually be around the same size as a cat (they are bigger, but not always by much), and yet they are able to hold their own with their feline companions. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniels is known for being gentle and affectionate, which actually works when it comes to pairing them up with a cat. They have plenty of love to give and they don’t mind giving it to another furry friend.
- Basset Hounds – If there is one thing that almost all Basset Hounds are known for, it is being lowkey. And that is a great characteristic for a dog that will be spending time with a cat. While they can be stubborn, just like a cat, they are also known for “their mild-mannered attitude makes them friendly and tolerant of other animals.”
While any dog can get along with a cat when trained, there are just some dog breeds that are more inclined to be cat-friendly. In this case, we have five breeds we highly recommend when it comes to dual pet homes.