Which dog breeds get along best with cats?

If you're a cat parent considering adding a dog to your family — or vice versa — you're probably wondering which breeds are most likely to become best friends. While every pet has their own personality, certain dog breeds are naturally more inclined to live peacefully with feline housemates. Understanding which breeds typically excel at cat companionship can help you make the best choice for your multi-pet household.

Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers: The gentle giants

Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers consistently rank among the most cat-friendly dog breeds, and for good reason. These larger dogs possess remarkably gentle temperaments and patient personalities that make them excellent companions for cats. Their eagerness to please and naturally calm demeanor mean they're more interested in making friends than chasing potential playmates. Both breeds adapt well to multi-pet households and typically view cats as family members. Their tolerant, friendly nature allows them to form genuine bonds with cats, especially when introduced properly during their younger years.

Small breeds that do well with cats

Several smaller dog breeds prove that size can work in favor of cat relationships. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are great examples with their mellow, affectionate personalities that make them seek companionship rather than conflict with cats. Pugs bring a similar energy — their calm temperament and preference for lounging over chasing creates a peaceful coexistence. Boston Terriers are exceptionally gentle and tolerant with cats, while toy breeds like Papillons and Maltese often befriend cats due to their similar size and adaptable nature. These smaller dogs typically view cats as equals rather than prey, which helps establish balanced relationships from the start.

Surprising hound breeds that love cats

While you might expect hunting dogs to struggle with cat relationships, Beagles and Basset Hounds prove otherwise. Beagles, bred to hunt in packs, are naturally sociable animals that extend their friendly nature to cats when properly socialized. Their laid-back personality and moderate energy level help them coexist peacefully with feline friends. Basset Hounds take relaxation to another level — their famously calm demeanor and low energy mean they'd rather nap alongside a cat than give chase. "When selecting a dog breed for a household with cats, it's important to consider breeds with lower prey drives and calmer temperaments," Dr. Aliya McCullough, Fetch's Chief Veterinary Officer, explains. "Breeds that were historically bred for companionship rather than hunting often transition more smoothly into cat-friendly homes."

What makes these breeds successful with cats?

The most cat-compatible dog breeds share several key traits that set them up for success. They typically have lower prey drives, meaning they're less likely to view cats as something to chase. Their calm, patient temperaments allow them to handle a cat's independent nature without becoming frustrated or aggressive. Many of these breeds were originally developed for companionship rather than hunting or herding, which translates to a more peaceful approach to other animals. Additionally, their friendly, social personalities mean they actively seek relationships with all family members — including the feline ones.

Setting up your pets for success

Even the most cat-friendly dog breed needs proper introduction and ongoing support to build a positive relationship with your cat. Start with gradual, supervised introductions in neutral spaces where neither pet feels territorial. Provide separate areas initially, allowing both pets to adjust to each other's scent and presence without direct contact. Age matters too — puppies introduced to cats early often develop stronger bonds than adult dogs meeting cats for the first time. Training plays a crucial role, as does your cat's temperament. Some cats are naturally more accepting of dogs, while others need extra time and patience to warm up to their canine companions.

Breeds to approach with caution

While focusing on cat-friendly breeds, it's worth noting that some dogs face greater challenges in cat households. Breeds with high prey drives, such as many terriers (excluding Boston Terriers), sighthounds like Greyhounds and Whippets, and some herding breeds may struggle more with cat relationships. This doesn't mean these breeds can never live with cats, but they typically require more intensive training, supervision, and management to ensure everyone's safety and comfort.

Finding the right dog for your cat household comes down to more than just breed — individual personality, proper introductions and ongoing training all play vital roles. However, starting with a breed known for cat compatibility significantly increases your chances of creating a harmonious multi-pet home. Whether you choose a gentle Golden Retriever, a mellow Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or a laid-back Basset Hound, remember that patience and proper socialization are your best tools for helping your pets build a lasting friendship.