Have you ever met a pup that makes you do a double-take and think, “Wait… was that a dog or a cat?” Believe it or not, some dogs really do act like cats—and we’re not just talking about curling up in your laundry basket or giving you the cold shoulder when they’re not in the mood.
While dogs are usually known for their tail-wagging loyalty and energetic affection, a few quirky breeds like to mix things up with feline flair. Think quiet independence, graceful movements, and the occasional “I’ll come to you when I’m ready” attitude.
If you’re a cat person and looking to dip your paws into the dog world—or just want a pup with a chill, mysterious vibe—you’re in luck. There are some seriously cool dogs that act like cats, and we’ve rounded them up just for you. Keep reading to meet the canine copycats of the pet world!
Dog Breeds that Act Like Cats
1. Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu might look like a fox, but spend a little time with one and you’ll start to wonder if someone swapped out its dog DNA for a cat’s. This ancient Japanese dog breed is the definition of independent, loyal, yes, but on their terms.
They’re confident, bold, and absolutely not here for your clingy cuddles. Shibas enjoy being around their people, but they’re perfectly happy doing their own thing and may respond to your commands with the classic “I heard you, I’m just choosing to ignore you” vibe. If they’re not in the mood, don’t take it personally—you’re simply not holding anything they want.
As noted by WebMD, Shibas also come with an unexpected twist: they’re clean freaks. These dogs are obsessed with personal hygiene and will often groom themselves with the dedication of a cat. They might even take it upon themselves to clean the other small animals in the house—because clearly, someone had to raise the cleanliness standards around here!
From dainty water sipping to avoiding muddy puddles like the floor is lava, their tidy habits are truly next-level. Of course, if a fun pack of dogs is around, even the fanciest Shiba might throw caution (and cleanliness) to the wind and dive into the nearest mud puddle with reckless abandon.
2. Basenji
Meet the Basenji—a sleek, graceful pup with a tightly curled tail, ninja-like agility, and the uncanny ability to leap straight into your heart (and probably onto your countertops). These petite powerhouses stand around 16–17 inches tall but pack in a whole lot of personality.
Often dubbed the “barkless dog,” the Basenji doesn’t yap like your neighbor’s Chihuahua. Instead, they treat you to their signature “yodel”—a sound that falls somewhere between charming and “what on earth was that?”
What makes the Basenji such a cat-like canine? For starters, they’re all about independence. They don’t need constant validation or attention, and they won’t follow you around like a shadow. In fact, they’re known to bond closely with just one or two family members, kind of like that one cat who only tolerates your presence when it benefits them.
As noted by PetMD, they are clean freaks at heart, and groom themselves like feline royalty, keeping their coats spotless and their signature “dog smell” to a minimum. They’re smart—sometimes too smart—and if left bored or untrained, they’ll invent their own version of home décor (which may involve shredded cushions).
While their aloof, independent temperament can be challenging for first-time dog parents, Basenjis more than make up for it with their expressive faces and that “I run this place” attitude.
Fun Fact:
The Basenji might just be the OG dog—one of the oldest breeds in existence. Their name comes from the Ituri people of Central Africa, who called them Basenchi, meaning “little bush thing.” Adorable and mysterious—just like any respectable cat-dog hybrid should be!
3. Italian Greyhound
If there were ever a dog born to blur the line between feline and canine, it’s the Italian Greyhound—known to fans as the “Iggy.” Graceful, dainty, and unapologetically particular, this pint-sized sighthound moves through life like a cat in couture. With their sleek frame, expressive eyes, and natural elegance, Iggies don’t just live in your home—they rule it, preferably from the sunniest spot on the couch.
Like true feline royalty, Italian Greyhounds adore warm, elevated perches and quiet lounging time. You’ll often catch them nestled on the back of a sofa or draped dramatically across a pillow, soaking in sunbeams like it’s their job. They’re expert burrowers, too—vanishing under blankets, couch cushions, or even your hoodie.
These dogs also share cats’ weather preferences—meaning none. Rain? Offensive. Damp grass? Disgusting. Many Iggies prefer a litter box setup over muddy paws, and some even master it like furry little pros. If it’s not warm and dry, it’s a no from them.
Italian Greyhounds are as emotionally complex as any moody tabby. They crave closeness on their terms, follow you from room to room (yes, even the bathroom), and give Oscar-worthy performances if ignored. Training them? Let’s just say they respond best to gentle persuasion, not strict commands. They’re not trying to disobey—they’re just pretty sure they know better.
Their cat-like behavior and curiosity also get them into mischief. Anything remotely interesting—or edible—is fair game for investigation. And while they love their fellow small dogs, many Iggies form adorable nap-and-zoom bonds with cats, becoming the ultimate cross-species cuddle team.
So, if you’re dreaming of a companion with the sleek grace of a cat, the loyalty of a dog, and the flair of a drama major, the Italian Greyhound might just be your dream pet.
4. Japanese Chin
Don’t let the posh coat and perky tail fool you—the Japanese Chin may look like royalty, but deep down, they’re all about cozy naps and cheeky charm. These tiny, elegant small breeds are a favorite among apartment dwellers and introverts alike. Why? Because they’re quiet, low-maintenance, and delightfully cat-like in the most unexpected ways.
Weighing under 12 pounds and standing no taller than 11 inches, the Japanese Chin is the definition of a pocket-sized, adorable small breed. With their lush coats, wide-set eyes, and charmingly squishy faces, they look like they just stepped out of an aristocrat’s portrait—and into your lap. Fancy looks aside, they’re affectionate, silly, and carry just enough sass to keep things interesting.
The great outdoors? Not for them. Chins prefer tiptoeing across your living room like it’s their runway. With a graceful gait and a deep love for lounging, they’re more into velvet cushions than hiking trails.
What truly makes them catlike, though, is their behaviour. AKC states that these little furballs are furniture climbers, professional loungers, and meticulous self-groomers. Don’t be surprised if you spot yours delicately licking a paw and wiping their face like a feline prepping for a nap—or a royal audience.
With people they love, Chins are affectionate and cuddly. With strangers, they’re polite but reserved—no wild tail wags or sloppy kisses here. And while you may think you’re caring for them, make no mistake: it’s all happening on their terms. After all, this isn’t just a dog. It’s your fuzzy little monarch… with impeccable manners and a touch of diva.
5. Borzoi
If elegance came on four legs, it’d look suspiciously like the Borzoi. Once the pride of Russian aristocracy, these graceful hounds were bred to chase down wolves across snowy steppes—because apparently, royal hobbies included “extreme dog sports.” Their name, from the Russian borzyi meaning “swift,” sums them up perfectly: sleek, fast, and just the right amount of aloof.
Nowadays, Borzois are more sunbeam seekers than thrill chasers. Inside, they’re quiet, observant, and have a cat-like talent for lounging in style. They adore their humans—but on their own terms. Don’t expect clingy behavior or constant tail-wagging. If they follow you to the bathroom, it’s probably to make sure you’re using the space correctly.
Training one? Think subtle diplomacy, not obedience drills. Despite their high intelligence, Borzoi are gloriously independent and even sometimes stubborn. They respond best to positive reinforcement and gentle coaxing—more like convincing a moody artist to attend a meeting than teaching tricks to a Golden Retriever.
Their looks only deepen the mystique. With flowing coats, slender frames, and soulful, novel-worthy eyes, they bring drama without the noise. Like a tidy cat, they keep themselves impressively clean and rarely bark—because why bark when a disapproving stare will do?
While they love their chill time, Borzois do need regular exercise to stay happy. A brisk walk, fenced-in zoomies, or a bit of lure coursing keeps their sighthound soul satisfied. Just don’t let them off-leash in open areas unless you enjoy interpretive sprinting and panicked chasing.
6. Afghan Hound
With flowing locks that could give Rapunzel a run for her money and a gaze that says, “I’m better than you and I know it,” the Afghan Hound is basically the runway model of the canine world. But don’t let that glam fool you—this is no airhead.
The Afghan is graceful, fast, fiercely independent, and carries itself with the cool detachment of a Persian cat who’s just knocked your favorite mug off the counter… on purpose.
Bred to hunt solo across tough terrain, the Afghan Hound is agile, athletic, and totally independent. Training them feels more like negotiating with royalty than teaching a dog. They’re clever, but you’ll need patience, persistence, and a sense of humor when they pretend not to hear you… for the third time.
Afghan Hounds are selective with their affections. They bond closely with their person—yes, singular—and often treat everyone else like mildly tolerated background extras. Their aloof nature, combined with their sleek elegance and regular self-grooming (yes, they actually lick their coats!), makes them eerily catlike. Add a high prey drive and an “I do what I want” attitude, and you’ve basically got a feline in a dog’s body.
At home, Afghan Hounds can coexist peacefully with kids and other pets, provided everyone respects their personal space and doesn’t get too clingy. They can be friendly with other dogs but are typically wary around strangers.
Take them outside, and suddenly, that reserved aristocrat becomes a turbocharged gazelle. They love to run, so only let them off-leash in secure, enclosed areas—otherwise, they’ll vanish into the horizon chasing a squirrel-shaped speck.
7. Chow Chow
If a regal lion, a teddy bear, and a cat had a baby, it might just be the Chow Chow. With a history dating back over 8,000 years, this ancient breed hails from central China. It comes with a resume that includes guarding, hunting, sledge-pulling, and, most importantly, looking fabulous while doing it.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) describes this dog breed as “dignified, bright & serious-minded”. One look at that signature blue-black tongue (yes, it’s real) and you’ll know you’re dealing with a breed that marches to the beat of its own drum. Chow Chows are famously independent, often described as more cat than dog.
They enjoy affection, but on their terms, thank you very much. They’re calm, clean, and carry themselves with a kind of canine dignity that says, “I will accept your belly rub, but only because I’m feeling generous today.”
Despite their aloof exterior, Chows form deep, loyal bonds with their families. They’re not the type to shower you with slobbery kisses, but their quiet devotion runs deep. They’re generally a good fit for apartment living and urban house environments, especially since they don’t demand hours of exercise or constant attention.
Plus, they’re surprisingly tidy—low odor, minimal fuss, and easy to housebreak. Honestly, they’re the Marie Kondo of the dog world.
Chows are not social creatures; they tend to be reserved with strangers and don’t exactly throw welcome parties for new visitors, but they’re never aggressive without reason. With proper socialization, they grow into beautifully composed companions: refined, respectful, and just the right amount of sassy.
So if you’re the type who appreciates a pet with a strong sense of self (and a majestic mane to match), the Chow Chow might just be your spirit animal.
Conclusion
Some dogs have a dog act, so cat-like they could fool a feline fan. Breeds like the Italian Greyhound and Whippet (just look at any image of them lounging like royalty) are calm, independent, and perfectly content as quiet couch potatoes. These dogs tend to appeal to both cat people and dog people who prefer pets that don’t demand constant attention but still love a good cuddle.
While other breeds are all bark and bounce, these pups share feline traits—from self-grooming habits to selective affection. Breeds like the Manchester Terrier are also great with small animals and other animals, making them ideal for multi-pet homes. They enjoy their toys, their space, and a gentle lifestyle, which makes them great companions for relaxed owners.
So, if you love cats but want a dog that blends in with your mellow routine, these breeds are a perfect fit. They’re low-maintenance, full of charm, and with proper care from a vet and love from their people, these cat-like puppies grow into calm, elegant adults who are happy to play—on their own terms.
