9 Best Dogs That Get Along With Cats

If you have both a dog and a cat at home, you know how tricky it can be to introduce them to each other. But fear not!

We’ve compiled a list of the best dogs that get along with cats to make your search for a furry companion a little bit easier.

From patient Golden Retrievers to playful Beagles, there’s a pup out there for every feline friend.

So without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best dogs that are sure to become your cat’s new friend.

If you need the best dog that gets along with cats, we recommend Golden Retrievers for a medium dog and Shih Tzu for a small dog.

Recommended article: 8 Best Dog Breeds For A Single Person.

Best Dogs That Get Along With Cats

The following are some of the best dogs that get along with cats:

1. Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever is among the most popular breeds of dogs in the United States and around the world.

The disposition of golden retrievers is believed to be one of friendliness, gentleness, and serenity.

They are incredibly gregarious and intelligent canines who enjoy doing their owners favors.

They make an excellent cat companion because they have a great desire to be near people and other animals.

Always bring them together by getting them to watch a movie with you when you are less busy.

2. Beagle

Beagles are also among the most popular breeds of dogs that are considered to be a perfect fit for cats.

Even though Beagles are very vocal they are very affectionate towards family members like cats.

Beagles are sociable, inquisitive, and active canines that like exploring their environment.

They are extremely sociable dogs who enjoy playing with cats and other animals and thrive on human company.

They make the perfect family pet because of their soft disposition and generally good temperament around cats.

Learn more about the Beagle’s pros and cons.

3. Bichon Frise

Bichon Frises dog is a small breed that has happy and entertaining personality, making them ideal siblings and playmates with the cat.

Bichon Frises are renowned for their extroverted, amiable personalities.

These dogs are extremely sociable and enjoy being around both people and other animals, including cats.

They are the perfect choice for households with both dogs and cats because of their gentle disposition and high level of trainability.

Learn more about Bichon Frisé pros and cons.

4. Maltese

The Maltese are certainly good for cats, moreover, this gentle breed of dog is often absorbed in lying on the sofa and does not interfere in cat affairs.

However, it may be that the cat is taking advantage of the Maltese cute and gentle personality.

In this case, the two can live in peace if the kitten agrees not to upset the Maltese, such as by playing with the long fur of this breed.

So don’t forget to stay alert when introducing your kitten to Maltese, so they can get along well!

Learn more about Maltese pros and cons.

5. Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever or “lab” is a lover, not a warrior. You always look forward to welcoming a cat to your circle of friends.

Apart from friendship with your cat, the lab is a gentle giant that will make the ideal companion for your children.

While labs are not the jealous type and are more than willing to share space with cats, cats should be willing to share space with dogs.

6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This breed is a small breed of dog and is an adaptable, affectionate, and gentle little dog, with a fearless personality.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their affectionate, gentle, and easy-going temperament.

They are highly social dogs that love to be around people and other animals, including cats.

They are not only beautiful and wonderful companions but also love other animals, especially cats.

7. Poodle

The intelligence, trainability, and amiable disposition of poodles are well known.

These dogs are extremely sociable and enjoy being around both people and other animals, including cats.

They are a great alternative for households with both dogs and cats because of their gentle demeanor and high level of adaptability.

8. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are renowned for their warm, amiable, and devoted personalities.

These dogs are extremely sociable and enjoy being around both people and other animals, including cats.

They are a great alternative for households with both dogs and cats because of their gentle demeanor and high level of adaptability.

Learn more about Shih Tzu’s pros and cons.

9. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers are known for their energetic, affectionate, and feisty personalities.

They are highly social dogs that love to be around people and other animals, including cats.

They have a strong desire to please their owners and are highly trainable, making them an ideal choice for families with both dogs and cats.

Learn more about Yorkie’s pros and cons.

How To Make The Dog Feel The Need To Protect Your Cat

Having a dog as a companion for a cat means that the dog needs to protect your cat.

1. Teach the dog the value of the cat by reminding the dog of the importance of having a friend that will keep it busy while you are away.
2. Always offer treats to both the cat and the dog for staying together.
3. Always initiate a play that involves both the dog and the cat.
4. Always make the dog feel relaxed around the cat.
5. Exercise both of them together and play the fetch game together with both of them.
6. Make both of them stay together even when you are at home.
7. Do not let the cat get close to the dog food, always keep their food differently.

Ways to help a dog and a cat get along

Here are some common ways to help dogs and cats get along:

1. Start with a proper introduction: When introducing a dog and a cat, it is important to do so slowly and cautiously. Start with a scent introduction by letting them smell each other’s scent on blankets or toys before meeting face to face.
2. Create separate living spaces: Until the dog and cat are comfortable with each other, it is best to keep them separated with separate living spaces. This could mean setting up a separate room for the cat with their litter box, food, and water, or using a baby gate to divide the living space.
3. Monitor their interactions: While the two are getting used to each other, it is important to supervise their interactions. This will ensure that neither pet gets hurt or stressed.
4. Provide each pet with enough space: Make sure each pet has its own space to retreat to when they want to be alone. This could be a separate room, bed, or crate.
5. Use positive reinforcement: Using positive reinforcement like treats can be helpful in teaching dogs and cats to associate each other with good things.
6. Train your dog to be calm around the cat: It is important to train your dog to be calm around the cat. This could mean teaching them basic commands like “sit” and “stay” and rewarding them for following your commands.
7. Give cats places to climb and hide: Cats like to climb and hide, so providing them with a cat tree or shelves can give them an escape from the dog.
8. Give dogs plenty of exercise: A well-exercised dog is less likely to chase or harass a cat.
9. Be patient: Building a relationship between a dog and a cat takes time and patience. Make sure to go at the pace that the animals are comfortable with.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some dog breeds that get along with cats?

There are several dog breeds that are known to get along well with cats, including Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Beagles, and Poodles.

How can I introduce my new dog to my cat?

Introducing a new dog to a resident cat should be done slowly and carefully.

Start by keeping them in separate rooms and allowing them to sniff each other through a closed door.

Gradually allow them supervised visits in a neutral area before allowing them to interact unsupervised.

Can any dog be trained to get along with cats?

While it may take more effort to train some dogs to get along with cats than others, any dog can be trained to live peacefully with a cat.

The key is to introduce them slowly, supervise their interactions, and reward positive behavior.

Are there any dog breeds that should not be kept with cats?

Some dog breeds are known to have a high prey drive and may not be suitable for homes with cats.

These breeds include Greyhounds, Afghan Hounds, and some Terrier breeds.

How can I prevent my dog from chasing my cat?

Training and supervision are important for preventing a dog from chasing a cat.

Teaching a dog basic obedience commands, such as “sit” and “stay,” can help to keep them under control.

Additionally, keeping a dog on a leash or using baby gates to separate them from the cat can help to prevent chasing behavior.

Can cats and dogs really be friends?

Yes, cats and dogs can definitely be friends! With patience, training, and proper introduction, many dogs and cats live happily together and even develop close bonds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the perfect dog that gets along with your cat is not impossible.

With the right breed and proper training, your furry friends can coexist in harmony.

Remember to introduce them slowly and supervise their interactions until they become comfortable with each other.

Whether you’re a cat person or a dog person, both pets can bring joy and companionship to your life.

According to The American Kennel Club cats and dogs always end up as best of friends.