Some of the most beautiful moments in life are the quiet ones—like seeing two very different animals find comfort in each other’s company. It’s a small reminder that companionship can bloom in the most unexpected places.
Life with pets is never just routine; it’s full of little surprises. A shared nap in a patch of sunlight, a playful nudge, or a silent understanding that warms the whole room.
Forget the old rivalry tales—dogs and cats can be the best of friends. When they choose harmony over conflict, it’s proof that kindness often speaks louder than instinct.
For us, their bond is more than cute—it’s grounding. It shows us that peace and friendship are possible, even in a world that often feels divided.
Let’s meet the pups that make this magic happen, turning homes into havens of gentle, joyful love.
Adorable Dog Breeds That Get Along With Cats
1. Basset Hound
Short legs, long ears, and a nose that could sniff at long distances, this laid-back legend is built for charm. Basset Hounds may come from the hunting dog group, but they’d rather nap than chase. Their calm nature makes them one of those adorable dog breeds that get along with cats without fuss.
Proper introductions are key—let them meet the feline at their own slow pace. They’re patient, gentle, and don’t mind sharing space, even with a cat’s business taking over the sunny spot.
Training? Keep sessions short and positive. They respond best to treats and praise, not drills.
AKC adds that health-wise, watch their weight; too many snacks can stress those low-slung bodies. Regular walks are non-negotiable.
In a home with both the dog and a grown cat, they’re living proof that cats and pups can peacefully coexist—with plenty of tail wags and sleepy companionship to go around.
2. Beagle
Curiosity is this little hound’s superpower—they’ll sniff out crumbs, secrets, and yes, even feline company. Beagles may hail from the hunting dogs category, but when socialized early, they’re surprisingly good with cats.
Expect enthusiasm during proper introductions—this is a breed that greets life nose-first. A confident, grown cat usually sets the tone, and the Beagle will happily follow their lead.
Training requires patience. They’re eager but distracted, so short sessions in a quiet house work wonders.
Their compact size fits most households, and while they need exercise, they’re content curling up with their companions afterward.
Give them love, consistency, and a fair share of play, and you’ll have one of the best dogs for families wanting cats and puppies as true friends.
3. Golden Retriever
Golden hearts, golden coats—these are the poster pups for patience and affection. Famous as one of the best dogs for families, they’re also cat-friendly naturals.
Purina recommends socializing them early, and they’ll treat other animals, even those “mortal enemies” called cats, as part of the pack. Their gentle temperament makes fitting introductions smooth and stress-free.
Training is a joy—they’re brilliant, eager, and thrive on positive reinforcement.
They do need space and daily exercise, but their balanced nature means they can switch from backyard zoomies to calm indoor companions in a heartbeat.
When a Golden shares a house with a kitten, expect more than coexistence—you’ll see true friendship. It’s a living example that kittens and dogs aren’t rivals; they’re just waiting for the right chance to bond.
4. Labrador Retriever
Labs are the ultimate all-rounders—athletic, affectionate, and famously good with cats. Despite being from the sporting breed group, they’re gentle giants at heart.
Introduce them properly, and they’ll treat a feline roommate as part of their family pack. Most cats appreciate their calm confidence and patient nature.
Training is straightforward; Labs are smart and eager to please. Just remember to balance mental stimulation with physical exercise—they need both to stay happy.
Health-wise, watch their diet—these big dogs love food a little too much. Regular vet checkups keep them in top form.
In a house with cats, they’re the peacemakers: a steady, loving presence proving that kitties and dogs can not just get along, but truly thrive together.
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Sweet-natured and endlessly affectionate, this toy breed is a natural in multi-pet homes. They’re gentle companions who tend to respect a cat’s space.
Start with suitable introductions—these sociable pups quickly adapt to feline presence, especially when raised alongside them.
Training is easy thanks to their eager-to-please attitude. Keep sessions fun and short to hold their attention.
PDSA notes that they thrive in smaller spaces, making them perfect for households with both a dog and a grown cat. Daily play keeps them happy and balanced.
With their loving nature, they turn “cats and dogs” from a phrase of conflict into a picture of harmony.
6. Collie
Known for intelligence and loyalty, Collies are members of the herding group with a knack for forming close bonds. Their calm demeanor makes them surprisingly good with cats.
Socialize them early, and they’ll treat the family feline as part of their herd—minus the nipping, of course.
Training is smooth; they’re quick learners and respond beautifully to positive methods.
These athletic dogs need space and exercise, but their spirited nature is balanced by the warmth they bring indoors.
When a Collie and a cat share a family, it’s a lesson in coexistence—showing that even instinct-driven breeds can peacefully coexist when guided with love.
7. Poodle
Brain, beauty, and a big heart—Poodles bring it all. Despite their elegant looks, they’re playful, loving, and one of the most cat-friendly breeds you’ll meet.
Proper warm-ups are key, but once they trust the kitty, they’re quick to form lasting bonds. Their thoughtful nature helps them read a cat’s signals and adjust accordingly.
Britannica highlights that training is a delight—they’re among the most intelligent dog breeds, excelling with positive reinforcement and consistency.
They need regular exercise and mental challenges, but they’re just as happy lounging beside a purring friend at home.
In a family with both cats and doggies, a Poodle proves that harmony isn’t luck—it’s a natural outcome of kindness and connection.
8. Maltese
Small in size but huge in heart, the Maltese is a gentle soul perfect for multi-pet living. Their calm, affectionate nature makes them wonderfully good with cats.
Take introductions slowly—they’ll happily let the cat take the lead, preferring peace over conflict.
Training is simple with patience and treats; they love pleasing their humans.
Their low-shedding coat and minimal exercise needs make them ideal for cozy homes with other animals.
With their sweet temperament, they’re living proof that cats and dogs can peacefully coexist, turning any house into a haven of comfort and friendship.
9. Papillon
Tiny, lively, and full of charm, the Papillon is a delightful companion in homes with cats. Their cheerful personality makes them natural friends with other animals.
PetMD advises that good introductions ensure a smooth start, but once comfortable, they’ll happily share space with a feline mate.
Training comes easily—they’re intelligent, quick learners who thrive on praise.
Despite their small size, they love to play and explore, but they’re equally content snuggling indoors.
In a mixed-pet home, a Papillon shows that big friendship often comes in small, feather-eared packages.
Conclusion
Who says cats and dogs can’t get along? The truth is, when you pick the right pup, it’s less “cartoon rivalry” and more “roommates sharing snacks and sunbeams.”
Our nine featured stars demonstrate that with appropriate introductions and a little patience, cats and dogs can coexist harmoniously side by side. It’s a reminder that every puppy and older dog has an individual personality worth celebrating.
Of course, they’re not alone. Honorable mentions, such as the Australian Cattle Dog, the playful Pug, the clever Terrier, the sleek Greyhound, and even the gentle Newfoundland, bring their charm to multi-pet families.
Temperament matters more than breed alone—some hunting or herding dogs with a high prey drive can still learn to peacefully coexist with birds, cats, and other animals if socialized well.
So, what’s your experience? Got a cat-dog duo who nap nose-to-tail? Or maybe a bark-filled beginning that turned into lifelong friendship? Share it—we’d love to hear!
Ready to meet your perfect match? Explore more breeds, discover training tips, and find out which dog might just turn your house into a cat-friendly haven.
