Contrary to popular opinion, dogs and cats living together is not a sign of the apocalypse, but rather is a common occurrence in a large number of families.
Most dogs can learn to happily coexist with cats, and most can be taught to do so, but other breeds have a more difficult time sharing their space, as well as their owners, with cats.
So, which dogs are the best companions for cats?
A cat-friendly dog breed is available for every situation, whether you have plenty of space and a large backyard, a small apartment with restricted space, or something in between.
Continue reading to learn about the finest dog breeds for cats, as well as helpful hints for bringing a dog into your house.
Cats prefer medium to large dog breeds, and vice versa.
This group of larger dogs will make excellent playmates for your cat if you have the space to accommodate them:
Beagle:
Beagles are known for being gregarious and friendly with both people and other animals. Despite the fact that they may make a game of pursuing your cat, they are unlikely to cause any harm to your cat.
Beagles are affectionate dogs who like cuddling with anyone who will allow them, yet they can be hyperactive when they are not being pampered. While they don’t bark much, they do so in a loud manner, making them an unsuitable choice for households with small yards but ideal for those with large backyards.
Cocker spaniel (cocker spaniel):
These gentle people-pleasers are comfortable in the company of other animals as well as humans, making them one of the greatest dog breeds for cat owners.
Cocker spaniels are active, medium-sized dogs who enjoy cuddling with a partner. They aren’t picky about whether their cuddle buddy is a human or a feline, and they will cuddle with either.
Boxer:
In spite of the fact that this breed can appear threatening, socialized boxers are regarded for being exceptionally kind, lively, and welcoming of other animals, even cats.
Ideally, boxers should be paired with larger, well-behaved cats who will not be readily surprised by a huge dog jumping around and attempting to coerce them into a wrestling contest.
Golden Retriever
The golden retriever is a breed of dog that is popular in the United States.
The same characteristic that makes goldens such a poor option as guard dogs also make them one of the finest dogs for cats – they regard everyone, even cats, as a kind companion.
However, despite their indiscriminate friendliness, golden retrievers are very clever dogs who are also quite easy to train.
Standard poodle (also known as a standard poodle):
Poodles are known as the “comedians of the dog world” because they are affable and clever dogs who get along well with both children and other animals.
HE GIANT STANDARD POODLE IS A LIVELY BREED THAT REQUIRES PLENTY OF SPACE AND EXERCISE TO BURN OFF ITS EXCESS ENERGY.
Small dog breeds that are good for cats are listed below.
If you have a limited amount of room, these small dog breeds will not interfere with your cat’s personal style:
Cavalier King Charles spaniel (Cavalier King Charles spaniel):
With their quiet and reserved demeanour, Cavaliers are likely to treat your cat with respect and offer them plenty of room in their territory. Having said that, Cavaliers despise being alone and do best in households where they have other pets to keep them company when their human friends are away.
Bichon frise (also known as a Bichon frise):
In terms of cat compatibility, the bichon frise is one of the best dog breeds. These happy-go-lucky little balls of fluff are friendly to everyone, including cats.
This breed is naturally playful, and your cat is likely to be seen as a possible playmate by this breed. They’d do best with a cat who isn’t easily irritated and who would appreciate the opportunity to play with them.
Maltese Dog:
This is a laid-back breed that enjoys being near to its owners and will cuddle up in any available lap when the opportunity presents itself. With their calm demeanor and small stature, Maltese make excellent apartment dogs, and they are likely to be largely indifferent to any cats that may be around.
Poodle in miniature or toy form:
Because they are smaller versions of the standard poodle, they have the same characteristics and disposition as the standard poodle, and they make excellent cat-friendly dogs for all of the reasons listed above.
Miniatures normally weigh between 15 and 20 pounds, but toy poodles often weigh less than 10 pounds, making both breeds suitable for homes with limited floor space.
Chihuahua dog breed:
Chihuahuas, the tiniest of the toy breeds, adore kitties that will engage them in a lighthearted wrestling contest or chase, and they are also content to share their bed or a lap with a feline companion.
Despite the fact that some Chihuahuas are aggressive, this is rarely a problem if they’re properly socialized, and these pint-sized pups are too small to pose a real threat to your cat’s well-being.
Breeds of Dog Cats need to Be Wary of When Approaching
According to The Cat Site, dog breeds with a high prey drive can represent a threat to cat populations.
These include hunting dogs that have been bred to track game, such as the majority of hounds and terriers, as well as sledge dogs such as the Alaskan malamute and Siberian husky, among others.
While some herding dogs, such as German shepherds, Australian shepherds, and border collies, do not constitute a serious threat to cats, others, such as border collies, may attempt to corral your cat, which may not be pleased with being bossed around.
While it’s vital to be aware of the possible difficulties that particular dog breeds may cause, every dog is different and should be treated as such. Who knows what will happen? Perhaps your kitty and a terrier would be the best of pals if they were to meet.
Other Factors to Take into Account
Your cat’s personality is as follows:
Some cats are content to be human companions and do best when kept as an only pet.
Some cats, on the other hand, appear to dislike everyone. Only you are familiar enough with your cat to be able to determine whether or not they would tolerate, or even enjoy, the company of a dog.
The following is the breed of your cat:
Some cat breeds are more inclined than others to get along with other animals, such as dogs. Cats such as ragdolls, Siberians, and Maine coons are all tough, friendly types that are not intimidated by dogs, according to the website PetHelpful.
The canine’s age is:
A puppy, regardless of its breed, is more likely than an adult dog to get along with the family cat in the house. If you introduce a puppy to your cat between the ages of 4 and 12 weeks, he or she will have little trouble adjusting to the presence of a feline companion.
The Process of Making Introductions
Introducing your new canine partner to your cat should be the first step once you’ve found your new canine buddy and are ready to bring them home. The most important aspect of a successful introduction is to proceed cautiously.
Keep them apart for the first few days, allowing them to sniff each other via a barrier such as a pet gate or a bathroom door, so that they may become used to one another.
Provide a safe spot for your cat to hide and an escape route if they feel threatened, and allow them to meet face to face under careful supervision, preferably while the dog is leashed (even inside).
IT’S CRUCIAL TO REMEMBER THAT, WHILE KNOWING THE BEST DOG BREEDS FOR CATS IS VITAL, THE BREED OF A DOG IS ONLY ONE THING TO CONSIDER.
You should ultimately choose a dog who will not only get along with your cat and other people in the house but who will also be a suitable match for your lifestyle and the amount of space you have to devote to him.