14 Best Dog Breeds For Cats

Are you thinking about getting a dog but you’ve already got a cat?

It can be a tricky decision adding a pet to a home where there’s already another canine or feline companion whose been ruling the roost.

You could decide to get a kitten and a puppy together so they grow up together and hopefully get along without any problems.

If you’re adding a dog to a home with a cat, you may want to consider hiring a dog trainer or dog behaviorist to make a smooth transition.

In this article, we’re going to take a look at some of the best dog breeds for cats.

We’ll hear from 13 experts, ranging from dog trainers to veterinarians, dog behaviorists to experienced pet owners, to hear their suggestions for the best dog breeds for cats.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

If there is one friendly, medium-sized dog that will co-exist with other animals, cats, dogs, people, children, and anything in between, that is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

This dog has a heart of gold and loves everyone he meets. Think of him as a Golden Retriever, but in a smaller package. And if you live in an apartment, this dog doesn’t take up as much space.

King Charles Spaniel is a medium-activity puppy and will love sleeping next to a cat. And because of their intuitive nature, they know where to leave space for their feline friend.

Suggested by Aleksandar Mishkov, Editor-In-Chief Of The Daily Tail

Pug

One of the best dog breeds for cat owners is the pug. If you’re worried your cat won’t get along with a dog you get, go for pugs. They are the embodiment of friendliness.

They are similar in size and personality to cats. So they tend to become friends quite quickly. Pugs want to be doted on by their owners and those around them. And this includes other pets as well. So they won’t intentionally try to pick fights with your cat or get in their way.

As long as you love them both equally, they’ll find a way to be civil and get along.

Suggested by Bethany Tate, Managing Editor Of The Daily Tail

Golden Retrievers

Dogs are a man’s best friend, but they can also be a close companion to your cats. They are one of the best breeds to leave your cats with without any worry in the world.

This breed is kind and empathetic and isn’t an attack dog. They are playful and can be your cat’s playmate when you are working or away from your house.

Golden Retrievers readily accept cats as one of their own, as they belong to the same family.

However, this breed should be trained young, so they don’t chase your cats during its early stages. Once this is done, it’s a match made in heaven.

Suggested by Simmi Jones, Owner Of Cat Food Point

Beagle

Any time anyone asks me this question I always recommend that they go with a Beagle. Beagles were historically bred to hunt in packs and so, because of this, they are generally very friendly with other animals.

They are bubbly and kind dogs that make them incredibly joyous to live with. Beagles are highly likely to view cat friends as members of their pack and will also do all they can to protect them.

They do have a reputation for being hunting dogs, but despite this, they aren’t hunters. They’re actually trackers. For the same reason that they’re great with children, they’re also excellent with cats, even the skittish type.

Suggested by Amanda O’Brien, Owner Of The Discerning Cat

Bichon Frise

A Bichon Frise is a small, white fluffy dog with a curly, corded coat. They are known for their loving temperament and are considered pocket pets with a lifespan of about 12-15 years.

The Bichon Frise is a great dog known for being friendly and playful for human companions. Cats typically don’t get along with dogs, but this breed is more likely to be accepted by cats due to their smaller, more compact body type.

The Bichon Frise is a high-energy dog that would love to play with your cat in the backyard.

Suggested by Deepanshu Bedi, Marketing Director Of Holista Pet

Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier is a small, short-haired dog with a blue or black
coat. This breed is often used as a companion animal for its intelligence,
strength, and willingness to work.

For the most part, terriers and cats can exist peacefully when appropriately introduced. The Scottish Terrier is a good option if you are looking for a dog that will get along with your cat.

They are very smart and eager to please, which will help your cat come to
accept them quickly. Scottish Terriers also have a very distinctive
appearance, which will help the cats be less curious.

Suggested by Deepanshu Bedi, Marketing Director Of Holista Pet

Maltese

Maltese dogs love to relax and chill, making them the perfect companion for a cat. They are also really easy to socialize with, as they mostly adapt with ease and continue on as normal.

Suggested by Jacquelyn Kennedy, Founder And CEO Of PetDT

French Bulldogs

Frenchies are known for their cute faces, big heads, and high-pitched barks. Because of their adorable appearance, French bulldogs are a popular choice among cat owners.

However, they require constant supervision since they don’t possess good house manners. If you decide to take this breed home, be prepared to train them well.

Suggested by Alex Romilly, Editor Of My Dog Breed

Bulldogs

Bulldogs are as low-energy as dogs come, which could be a perfect match for cats who just like to laze around in a sun beam all day.

Bulldogs look tough, but they’re big sweeties who often want to stay inside and nap, like many cats.

If you’re concerned about a Bulldog’s size, you can also opt for the smaller French Bulldog.

Suggested by Daniel Caughill, Co-Founder Of The Dog Tale

Poodles

Poodles are a good dog breed for a home with cats because they are intelligent and easily trained.

They are also hypoallergenic, which means that they are less likely to cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to dogs.

Poodles are also gentle and good-natured, which makes them good companions for cats.

Because Poodles do not shed much, there will be less hair around the house for your cat to deal with.

Suggested by Graydon Driver, Canine Expert At Doodle Dog Club

Basset Hounds

Basset Hounds make great companions for cats because they’re so mellow. They’re loyal, patient, and easy-going. They love to be around people and other animals.

Basset Hounds can be challenging to train due to their stubbornness but in general they’re very mild mannered. Cats will sometimes sense their laidback attitude and curl up to their furry sibling for a nap.

Suggested by Christian Kjaer, CEO And Co-Founder At ElleVet

Great Dane

The Great Dane is an excellent choice for a home with cats. They are gentle giants who love nothing more than spending time with their family. They are also very patient, making them perfect for households with aggressive cats.

Great Danes are known for having health problems, so it is important to find a reputable breeder. However, with proper care, they can make wonderful companions – even for cats!

Suggested by Jeff Netzley, Creator Of Dog Training Near You

Pomeranian

I highly recommend Pomeranians for homes with cats. It’s always best for dogs and cats to grow up together but, from experience, a Pomeranian can be a great addition to a home that already has an adult cat.

We added our first Pomeranian to our family when our cats were around nine years of age. One of the key factors that contributed to the success of our cat and Pomeranian household was the fact that the cats had previously had dogs in the home when they were very young.

I wouldn’t recommend adding any dog to a home with older cats that have never had experience living with a dog. Some of the reasons why Pomeranians are a great match for cats include their small stature, energy levels, and overall temperament.

Pomeranians adapt very well to homes with cats and do enjoy the company and companionship that cats can provide. Pomeranians are also playful and will interact and play with their feline friends.

Suggested by Sara Bachmann, Owner Of All About Poms

Shih Tzus

Shih Tzus are known for their loyalty to their owner as well as their calm and confident personalities. They are known as ‘little lion dogs’ and are described by some as having feline qualities. They can be independent, aloof with strangers and appreciate time at home relaxing.

Most get on well with cats, especially when well socialised with them from a young age. Both pets can do well in smaller homes, which suits those living in apartments.

Suggested by Dr Linda Simon, MVB, MRCVS, Consulting Veterinarian At Five Parks