There’s no denying the fact that we all grew up watching the Tom and Jerry show! And there is no better representation of the relationship between a dog and a cat. One minute, the dogs are good with cats, and the next minute, they are running after the feline companion!
But this is not always the case. Some dog breeds get along with cats owing to their gentle nature. With the right breed and a little patience, your cat and dog can become best friends. Some dogs have a friendly disposition and easygoing nature, so they bond with cats easily.
This article will take you through 10 dog breeds that are cat-friendly. They don’t just have the patience to bear cats, but they form positive relationships with these smaller animals. So, are you ready to witness plenty of adorable moments in multi-pet homes?
10 Dog Breeds That Bond With Cats Fast
1. Basset Hound
It is not only we humans who suffer from loneliness; sometimes, dogs also feel the same. With soulful eyes, velvety ears, and calm behavior, these are the best dogs for cat-friendly homes.
AKC reports that the Basset Hound has a very sociable nature and cannot stay alone. This is your sign to get a feline friend for your pet dog.
They are not the type to dash after a cat. They would rather sit beside them. These canine companions are the most affectionate, tolerant breed towards other pets. With a proper introduction and training for respecting boundaries, this dog group can become the most feline-loving dog!
2. Poodle
Poodles are one of the most compatible dogs with most of the cat breeds. As silly as a Poodle might look running after you, wagging its tail, it is one of the smartest dog breeds. The Miniature, Standard, and Toy Poodles tend to have a friendly nature from a young age.
Their gentle nature and high intelligence, paired with some trainability, make them a fantastic match for feline housemates. They are often curious and may approach cats to investigate. They also have a prey drive to chase things smaller than their size.
But with early socialization and positive reinforcement, these fearless little dogs will show their loving nature!
3. Maltese
These dogs with a small stature and gentle nature are quick to form long-lasting bonds. The fact that they were lap dogs shows how close they get to humans and other animals around them. There might be something good about these dogs for Queen Victoria to like them so much!
They easily get along with cats owing of their quality than being calmer than most dogs. Their size is also almost equal to a cat.
They are only 10 inches tall and weigh 9 pounds at most. So, it is not intimidating. They also don’t have a very strong prey drive and are generally seen to be good with cats.
So, even if your Maltese shows resistance at first, some degree of training and socialization will solve the issue. And what will you get? A chance to witness the best cat and dog relationship!
4. Boston Terrier
Ladies and Gentlemen, presenting to you the American Gentleman! Yes, you heard that right. It is partly due to the impeccable manners of this terrier group dog and partly due to the tuxedo-like markings on its body. And what else? They don’t bark much.
Given all the qualities of this affectionate breed, it is certain that cats would feel comfortable around them. There are chances that the first interaction might not go as one would expect. But if you are patient and work on the boundaries of both the dog and the cat, you might achieve success.
So, take your time to understand your dog and cat, and understand their personalities. Take them together on daily walks and then sit back to see the friendship unravelling!
5. Papillon
You won’t believe it when I tell you that no one knows exactly where the Papillon came from. Some believe they are from Europe, others say it’s China. But regardless of where they belong, they are sociable and adaptable.
Furthermore, their pretty face and butterfly ears are the cherry on top, as PetMD mentions. The Papillon does not have a very high prey drive, which allows them to coexist harmoniously with cats.
What’s more interesting is that these small dogs are often sensitive to feline body language. All these characteristics make them multi-pet household candidates. Bring lively affection to your home with a Papillon and your favorite cat breed at home!
6. Golden Retriever
Who else would be more gentle than a dog who works as a guide dog and is often reported to help the blind? It’s none other than our favorite Golden Retriever.
They have a low-stress demeanor, intelligence, and eagerness to please that helps them make strong bonds with their feline companions.
They learn quickly to respect a cat’s space, especially when introduced and guided gradually. While playful and energetic, Goldens are patient and calm, ready to lounge beside your kitten.
So, if you are worried that you can’t adopt kitties when you already have a Golden Retriever, you need to think again.
7. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers have a soft mouth that allows them to carry fragile game. Isn’t it an ideal trait when dealing with kittens? This, paired with a friendly nature, helps them treat cats in the best way possible.
These dogs are really famous for their affectionate and fun temperament. Due to these qualities, they make fast friends with humans and other animals. They respond with a calm curiosity rather than an instinctive chase.
But bear in mind that not all Labs are the same. With a delicate balance of guidance, exercise, and love, they can become cherished family members.
8. Beagle
You were always taught that the nose is the only organ that helps you smell. Beagle is here to prove you are wrong! These puppies have long ears that touch the end of their nose. And they collect scent particles to keep them close to the nose! This makes them natural trackers.
However, this isn’t the only cool thing about this pet. They have a merry disposition and a social nature. If introduced properly, they might see cats as pack companions. Don’t worry if they initially react aggressively. You can always train them and transform their instincts into respectful co-existence.
Beagles’ adaptable personality and intuitive intelligence make them surprisingly compatible with cats. When their tense relation turns into a harmonious one, you wouldn’t believe that dogs and cats can be that good of friends!
9. Pug
When you hear its name, you won’t think of it as a very mighty dog. But the reality is a bit different. They were so important to Chinese royalty that their forehead wrinkles were studied. They often shaped the wrinkles to mirror the character of the “prince”.
While they are easygoing and good with children and cat breeds, there is something different. They are on a whole different level of humor and often entertain you with queer antics. They have energy levels no dog breeds can match!
And obviously, they will be good for your cat breeds with their charming personality. When socialized early, they will have an enduring bond with your cat!
10. Bichon Frise
The nickname given to the Bichon Frise tells you everything about its personality. It is called the “Curly Lap Dog”, according to Citizen Shipper. This hypoallergenic breed, characterized by its thick coats and powder puff appearance, is built for human affection.
And there is no doubt about how they would be with the cats. They are intelligent, playful, and naturally social.
Their moderate energy and gentle demeanor guarantee that they will respect a cat’s space. So, get ready to witness them cuddling and lounging with your cat!
Conclusion
A harmonious household with both a cat and a dog is more than charming. It is also considered scientifically uplifting. Studies show that most cohabiting dogs and cats not only live peacefully together, but also play side by side.
This inter-species friendship can also boost their well-being while enriching your lives with deeper bonds. With thoughtful introductions and training, we can foster a loving, balanced relationship. Let purrs and tail wags transform your home into a family sanctuary.
