Have you ever seen a dog gently licking a cat’s head just like it would treat its own puppy? This sweet, kind, and heartfelt moment can instantly melt anyone. Cats and dogs are often considered enemies, but in real life, these pets show a different side.
Although certain affectionate dog breeds have the guts to even protect cats like their own kids or siblings. Grooming them, sleeping with them, and treating them right, as they are just another member of the family.
Of course, not all dogs are this welcoming towards cats. That’s why it’s important to choose the right breed if you’re planning to bring home a new dog while already having a cat. There are dogs that get along with cats very easily and go the extra mile to show them affection.
Affectionate Dog Breeds That Groom Cats Like Family Members
These dog breeds not only accept cats, but they also embrace them like their best friends. Let’s meet the breeds that are multi-pet friendly.
1. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are famous for their patient nature, which makes them a good choice for a household cat. They don’t rush or chase; they take time, observe slowly, and bond with time while building trust.
Other than having high energy levels, these dogs have a low-key personality that attracts the shy or older cats. With time, these two pets will be found curled up together in a silent companionship.
As family dogs, these naturally look for company even from other animals like cats. With delicate licks, they often treat their cat fellows the same way that they would a puppy or other dog.
This breed enjoys homes where multiple pets are available. Their lack of aggression makes them a great addition to families having children, cats, or even other dogs.
2. Beagle
Beagles are actual social butterflies who crave the company of both humans and other pets, including cats. They’re non-aggressive and yet very playful for a household having multiple pets.
Many owners have observed Beagles licking their cats in the same way as their puppies. This habit of grooming shows how loving they are and how deeply connected they feel with other pets.
With the positive behavior and right training, they learn to respect boundaries and welcome cats calmly. Even though they have a hunting background, if bonded early, they become the kind of dog that a cat feels safe with.
Beagles are full of energy and have a playful nature, like a playful cat. If both the dog and cat are well-trained, they are most likely to chase, nap, and groom each other daily.
They have a compact and powerful body that is not too huge, making them the right match for most cats. Their medium size helps them interact with cats easily without overwhelming them.
3. Maltese
The Maltese may be tiny in size, but its heart is huge when it comes to showing love and attachment. They’re lightweight and have a delicate body, which makes them non-threatening to cats.
Maltese are known for their tender behavior and love for friendships. They often initiate grooming as a way to bond while living with a cat or other pets; this way, it brings peace into the home.
Though they’re small, their spirits are high; these pups carry quite a strength while being emotionally intelligent and sensitive to the environment. If the household has children, cats, or other animals, Maltese adapts quickly.
Stop dreaming about a dog that cuddles with your cat during afternoon naps—because Maltese can make your dream come true. Their cute features and kind nature make them the best coexisting dog breeds with cats.
4. Poodle
Poodles aren’t just recognized due to their stylish looks, but their smart nature makes them highly adaptable with other animals, including cats.
Poodles are obsessed with cleanliness, both for themselves and for the ones they love. Their tendency to groom can make their fellow cats feel blessed, because they always take the initiative to clean a cat’s face or ears.
Many cats feel comfortable around Poodles because of their gentle nature and balanced energy. They’re not dominating; they bond slowly and sweetly, being the cat’s favorite cuddle buddy.
These dogs love to stay with active families with a healthy routine, where they are well aware of their boundaries. They’re excellent with children, cats, and also other dogs when socialized early.
Whether you have a standard, miniature, or toy poodle, you can choose their size to match the comfort level of your household cat, as per PetMD.
5. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a fluffy, cotton-type bundle of love known for its cheerful attitude and kind soul. It has a soft coat and small body, making it physically unintimidating to most cats, especially the ones with a sensitive nature.
Their cloud-like fur and puppy-like eyes instantly attract cats instead of scaring them off. They’re naturally affectionate towards their feline housemates while cuddling, following, and even grooming them.
Cats in the house will usually feel their calm and positive energy and respond with mutual affection. These dogs blend in with cats so well that the cat might forget it’s a dog at all.
Bichons have a small structure, which is excellent for multi-pet owners living in apartments. They don’t require much exercise daily, which calls for more naps and more time for bonding with cats.
6. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is a large dog, but its lenient behavior makes it a good friend for cats. Ignoring their size, they’re good at being careful around smaller animals.
They are undoubtedly patient towards small children and other pets like cats. They act like an elder sibling while being very attentive towards the children and pets in the house.
With proper training and a loving environment, Labradors can become a cat’s best friend. These dogs were actually bred to retrieve and not chase, which is why they have a calm and obedient nature.
In many homes, the Labrador becomes the peacekeeper, as it creates bonds that go far beyond the species lines. When a Lab loves, they love deeply, even if it includes a cat.
7. Golden Retriever
There are some breeds that are loved globally, the most popular being the Golden Retriever. Because of their calm temperament and caring personality traits, Goldens are one of the best dog breeds for homes with cats.
It’s nothing new for a Golden Retriever to groom a cat, especially if they’ve bonded over time. These dogs have a maternal side in them, which often comes out in the form of gentle licking, cuddling, or simply lying nearby.
They are great at bringing families together, including pets from different species. They put efforts into making bonds that are real and long-lasting, and they treat cats as more than just roommates.
Despite its large body, it’s known for its soft movements. Their well-balanced body structure allows them to interact with smaller animals without creating a mess; this is what makes them one of the best dog breeds for cats.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right breed of dog makes all the difference when it comes to building a peaceful, loving home filled with both purring and tail wags. There are many dogs that can learn to tolerate cats, but the ones we have talked about do more than that; they care for them, groom them like family members, and become lifelong friends.
All of these pups don’t just coexist, but they bond, they cuddle, and they even help and treat their feline siblings. Even your shyest kitten can find a good friend in the right dog, with early socialization and a positive environment.
In the end, the best relationships between pets are always built on trust, care, and a little bit of love, and these breeds have it all.
