21 dogs that get along with cats

When you are looking for dogs that are good with cats, it’s a bonus if you already have one of these cat breeds that get along with dogs. Still, even the most easy-going cats may not be a good fit for certain dog breeds, particularly those in the herding, sighthound, or terrier group. Of course, every dog is an individual, but herding dogs are hard-wired to ‘herd’ anything that moves, including small children and cats. A cat’s sudden movement might set off the prey drive in sighthounds and terriers, making it hard to resist the impulse to chase.

That still leaves plenty of dog breeds that get along with cats. In fact, some of the most popular dog breeds are calm dog breeds and low-maintenance dog breeds, which could be a purr-fect combination for a feline roommate.

And if you need assurance cats and dogs can live in the same house, look at these sweet photos that prove cats and dogs can be best friends.

Aside from their penchant for howling – ahem, melodious merrymaking – the Basset hound, with its long, floppy ears, is about as mellow as you can get. They are also incredibly loyal and patient, which will go a long way during the introduction and acclimation period with their feline sibling. With those attributes, the Bassett hound is one of the best dogs breeds for cats.

Beagles were bred to hunt in packs, so they’re already open to sharing their space with other animals and people. Unlike Snoopy, who merely puts up with Woodstock, beagles in real life thrive on interaction with other dogs, pets, and people, making them a top candidate for dogs that get along with cats. Though your cat might wonder why dogs howl when the beagle gets so excited about the same ole lizard that’s been in the yard forever, other than the occasional annoyance, there probably won’t be any fur flying.

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Built low to the ground with a body like a tank, the Bulldog appears as a four-legged bully. Well, maybe to other dogs. They generally don’t make fast friends with other dogs, but cats and other pets are more welcome. Its short snout makes it prone to heatstroke and its short coat doesn’t fare well in the cold. Plus, they aren’t fans of the water and they are lazy dogs that make excellent nappers, so the Bulldog and your cat already have four things in common, making them one of the best dogs that get along with cats.

‘Cats’ are likely one of the most beloved toy dog breeds that stay puppy-sized forever. They have huge hearts of gold and bestow love on everyone they meet, which is why they make great emotional support dogs. The exact intuitive nature that provides affection and encouragement for patients in hospitals and nursing homes is ideal for sharing a home with a cat. Cavs know how to back off when they should and they’re open to a feline napping buddy. And because Cavs prefer to always be in the company of people or pets, they’ll love having a feline roomie while you’re out.

Read on for the truth about cats and dogs.

We know what you’re thinking – how did a member of the herding group make it on the list for dogs that get along with cats? Collies are one of those exceptions. (Think about Lassie. Would she drive a harmless cat into a corner?) Collies are remarkably loyal to their human and furry siblings. Because they are wicked smart and sweet, they can learn how to interact and adjust to living with a cat sibling.

If an Irish Setter can cross party lines and make friends at the White House, surely this gorgeous red, feathery coated dog can peacefully co-exist with a cat. This high-energy and boisterous dog is literally a party animal and happy to mingle with new friends, including cats. It would be difficult for even the grumpiest cat to ignore an invitation to play with their fun-loving Irish setter.

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Even people who aren’t familiar with dog breeds know the Golden Retriever has to be one of the best dog breeds for cats because they are so sweet, friendly, and hopelessly devoted to their family—including cats. They seem to have a limitless supply of empathy and compassion, on top of which, they’re eager to please, goofy, playful, and highly adaptable.

Pick any size poodle (they come in miniature, toy, and standard), and your cat will thank you for getting a dog that gets along with cats. Poodles are good-natured, eager to please, and valedictorians of the dog world. Besides being able to master the new dog tricks you teach them, they will learn fast and sense when your cat is cranky and back off or be open for sibling snuggles. Plus, they don’t shed that much.

Read on for the hypoallergenic cats for people with allergies.

A Labrador retriever would never be the type to show his teeth in dislike. There’s a reason why Labs are guide dogs, search and rescue, and emotional support dogs. They’re kind, gentle, accommodating, and always find the good in everyone, even if that new someone is a cat they haven’t had the pleasure of meeting.