Top 10 Dogs That Get Along With Cats

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Dog owners love animals; that is pretty clear. People usually think there are two types of people - a dog person and a cat person. However, there are those who love both dogs and cats and wish to share their lives and homes with both species. Having a dog that gets along with cats is crucial for such a living arrangement.

Different dog breeds have different levels of friendliness towards other dogs, pets, and humans. If you are thinking about getting a dog, and you already share a home with a cat, here are some of the best dog breeds that would make ideal pets for households with multiple pets.

1. The Collie

Collies come in two varieties, longhaired and shorthaired. The longhaired type was made wildly popular by the movie and TV series about Lassie. If you remember that movie, you probably remember these dogs are gentle and loving. They have obedient temperaments that make them very well suited for homes with multiple pets.

Collies are a herding breed. They are highly intelligent, and Scottish farmers and shepherds used these dogs for hundreds of years to help them take care of large flocks of sheep. This only proves how gentle and well-mannered these dogs can be.

You can read more about the Collie here - Collie breed profile.

2. Beagle

The Beagle is technically a hunting breed, but they are also dogs that are good with cats. These adorable little dogs are one of America’s favorite pets. They are playful and energetic, so your cat might be in trouble from a stubborn puppy that will constantly want to play. Beagles are one of the most popular dog breeds in the US, which is a testament to their friendly character.

Beagles are a part of the hound group, which means they have natural hunting instincts. However, modern-day Beagles are far from the hunters they were earlier in their history. These dogs have one of the most sensitive noses in the canine kingdom, so make sure you keep them on a leash while walking. Stumbling upon an interesting scent can take this breed far away from their owners.

Check out more info about these dogs here - Beagle breed profile.

3. Bulldog

The Bulldog is one of the most easy-going dog breeds out there. They are great, low-maintenance dogs good with cats, ferrets, birds, and all sorts of other pets you can imagine. They are known for their loyalty and stubbornness. Bulldog’s character will surely make you laugh, and they will enjoy entertaining you.

One of the problems regarding this breed is poor breeding. These dogs have a short muzzle (brachycephalic), and if they aren’t properly bred, they can be prone to different health issues. These health issues are not only physical; they can be behavioral as well. Properly-bred Bulldogs are easy-going, friendly, and loyal, but those that weren’t, you can never be sure about.

4. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are the most popular family dogs in the US. You cannot hold that title if you don’t have the whole package. They are energetic, intelligent, kind, patient, and gentle. These dogs get along with cats, other dogs, birds, and most of all - kids. They are one of the best dog breeds you can get if you already share a house with cats.

Goldens are gun dogs, and they were used by hunters to flush and retrieve prey, mostly waterfowl. These dogs have “soft jaws,” which means they can control their bites pretty well. This is a skill that comes in pretty handy when there are other playful pets around. Another thing that Goldens are known for and all future owners should prepare for is shedding.

5. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever, or simply Lab, is the most popular dog breed in the world for the past 20+ years. These dogs have lovely temperaments. They are friendly, curious, and most of all playful. They love sharing their home with their human and feline family. These dogs get along with cats exceptionally well.

Labs, like Goldens, are gun dogs, and they have a soft bite that is very well controlled. Make sure you provide these dogs with plenty of exercise and training. Labradors are very intelligent, and if their body and mind aren’t engaged, they can be problematic. Also, make sure you don’t overfeed them because they are prone to obesity.

6. Newfoundland

The gentle demeanor of a Newfoundland dog is legendary. These dogs have a telling nickname - the Nanny Dog. In Victorian England, Newfies were often left alone with kids. They were keeping an eye on children while no one was in the room. Their mild and gentle character makes them dogs that are good with cats, if not excellent.

Newfoundlands are known for another thing - their legendary swimming abilities. These large dogs were known to swim for hours and not get tired. They even saved dozens of humans from drowning. Plus, seeing your cat cuddle with this giant dog breed will surely melt your heart.

7. Pug

Pugs are popular family companions that love spending time in the company of others. If their owners aren’t home, they will cuddle and play with whoever is available. These dogs are friendly and playful. Their small size makes them ideal for smaller living spaces, so if you live in an apartment and have a cat already, getting a Pug might be a great idea.

Pugs are known as being clownish and hilarious. Their short muzzle causes them to gulp a lot of air while eating and drinking, so prepare for sharing your home with a dog that passes plenty of gas. That can seem silly, but dogs with short muzzles are prone to health issues like collapsed trachea, and they shouldn’t be overworked in the warmest part of the year.

You can read more about Pugs here - Pug breed profile.

8. Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdog, or Sheltie, is a herding breed from the Scottish islands of Shetland. These dogs have one of the softest coats in the world. They have kind characters, but Shelties are observant and alert. They will make excellent watchdogs that will surely alert you about anyone approaching your home.

Shetland Sheepdogs are amazing dogs that love spending time with other dogs and pets. They love having things to look after, and they will “adopt” a cat as a part of their protected flock. Shelties will make fantastic soft pillows your cat will absolutely love.

9. German Shepherd

German Shepherds are considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world. These smart dogs can be taught anything, and getting along with cats is just one of the things they can learn. Their natural instinct might tell them differently, but if a German Shepherd puppy is raised with a cat, they will become best friends.

German Shepherds will love having the company of your cat. They are intelligent and can quickly get bored if they don’t have anything interesting to do. Your cat will be the perfect playing partner your German Shepherd puppy will adore. Plus, these two together will love taking cuddly naps.

10. Maltese

Maltese, Havanese, or Bolognese are dogs that get along with cats. In fact, they get along with everyone. These are all part of the Bichon family, and they were bred to become the best possible companions. You cannot be a great companion without manners, and the Maltese have the mellowest character of all of them. They will love all family members, including the cat.

These fluffy little white dogs are perfect lap dogs. They love cuddling, and their barely-shedding coat is ideal for indoor living. They are somewhat energetic, so your cat will always have someone to play with. Keep in mind that these dogs will require plenty of grooming to keep them looking their best.

You can read more about the Maltese here - Maltese breed profile.

World Dog Finder team