Last updated: May 4, 2026

Best Dog Breeds for Cats: Dogs That Actually Get Along with Felines

If you are a cat lover who also dreams of having a dog, or if you already have a cat and want to add a canine companion to the family, choosing the right breed is one of the most important decisions you will make. While individual temperament always matters more than breed alone, certain dog breeds have traits that make them far more likely to coexist peacefully with cats. Low prey drive, gentle dispositions, and adaptable social skills are the hallmarks of a great cat-friendly dog.

This guide highlights the best dog breeds for households with cats, explains what makes these breeds a good fit, and offers practical advice for creating a harmonious multi-species home.

What Makes a Dog Breed Cat-Friendly?

Before diving into specific breeds, it helps to understand the traits that make some dogs naturally better suited to living with cats. Not every dog within a “cat-friendly” breed will get along with felines, and not every dog from a “high-risk” breed will be a problem. However, certain breed characteristics significantly increase the odds of a successful relationship.

Low prey drive. This is the single most important factor. Dogs with a strong prey drive, which is the instinct to chase and catch small, fast-moving animals, are more likely to view cats as something to pursue rather than a family member to coexist with. Breeds developed for herding, guarding, or companionship typically have lower prey drives than breeds developed for hunting, coursing, or ratting.

Gentle and patient temperament. Dogs that are naturally calm, patient, and tolerant of other animals tend to do better with cats. Breeds that are easily excitable, overly boisterous, or physically overwhelming can stress cats even without aggressive intent. A dog that can settle down and give a cat space when needed is worth its weight in gold in a multi-pet household.

Trainability. Dogs that are responsive to training can learn to coexist with cats more quickly and reliably. A dog that can be taught to leave the cat alone, to redirect their attention on command, and to respect boundaries will make the entire household more peaceful.

Appropriate energy level. A dog whose energy level matches the household dynamic is more likely to succeed. Very high-energy dogs that are not adequately exercised may redirect their pent-up energy toward chasing or pestering the cat. A dog that gets enough physical and mental stimulation is a calmer, more manageable housemate for everyone.

Top Dog Breeds That Get Along with Cats

Golden Retriever. Golden Retrievers are famous for their gentle, friendly nature, and this extends to their interactions with cats. They are patient, tolerant, and rarely aggressive toward other animals. Their trainability means they can quickly learn to respect a cat’s boundaries. Goldens are large dogs, so initial introductions should be supervised to prevent accidental rough play, but once a relationship is established, Goldens and cats often become genuine friends.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Bred as companion dogs rather than hunters, Cavaliers have a soft, affectionate temperament that makes them ideal for multi-pet households. They are small enough not to physically intimidate most cats, gentle enough to coexist without conflict, and social enough to enjoy the company of other animals. Their low prey drive is a significant advantage.

Basset Hound. Despite being a scent hound, the Basset Hound’s famously laid-back personality makes them one of the most cat-compatible breeds. They are slow-moving, patient, and more interested in following their nose than chasing small animals. Their low energy level means they are unlikely to overwhelm a cat with unwanted attention.

Labrador Retriever. Labs are adaptable, good-natured dogs that typically accept cats as part of the family once introductions are handled properly. Like Golden Retrievers, they are trainable and eager to please, which makes managing the dog-cat dynamic easier. Their enthusiasm can be a lot for some cats initially, but Labs usually learn to moderate their energy around smaller animals.

Pug. Pugs are charming, affectionate dogs that were bred purely for companionship. They have virtually no prey drive and are more likely to want to cuddle with a cat than chase one. Their small size makes them less intimidating to cats, and their comical personality often wins over even the most skeptical felines.

Bichon Frise. This cheerful, gentle breed is known for getting along with virtually everyone, including cats. Bichons are playful but not overwhelming, and their small size makes them a comfortable companion for cats. They thrive on social interaction and are often happy to have a feline friend to keep them company.

Maltese. The Maltese is a tiny, gentle breed that was developed as a lap dog and companion. Their small size and calm temperament make them an excellent match for households with cats. They are affectionate without being overbearing and are content to share the couch with a feline housemate.

Collie. Collies are gentle, loyal, and remarkably sensitive to the emotions and comfort of other animals. Their herding instinct means they may try to “manage” the cat by nudging or following, but they are rarely aggressive. Their intelligence and trainability make it easy to redirect any unwanted herding behavior.

Beagle. Beagles are pack-oriented dogs that generally accept other animals as part of their group. While they are technically scent hounds, their friendly, curious nature usually leads to peaceful coexistence with cats. They are sturdy enough for playful interactions but small enough not to be physically threatening.

Papillon. Do not let their small size fool you. Papillons are intelligent, confident dogs that adapt well to multi-pet households. They are curious about cats without being aggressive and can match a cat’s playful energy without overwhelming them. Their trainability is a major asset in managing interspecies dynamics.

Breeds to Approach with Caution

While individual dogs always vary, certain breeds have traits that make peaceful coexistence with cats more challenging. This does not mean these breeds can never live with cats, but it does mean that extra care, training, and supervision will be required.

Terriers were bred to hunt small animals, and many retain a strong prey drive that can make living with cats risky. Jack Russell Terriers, Rat Terriers, and Airedale Terriers are particularly known for their high prey drive. Some terrier breeds, like the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, tend to be gentler, but caution is always warranted.

Sighthounds such as Greyhounds, Whippets, and Afghan Hounds were bred to chase fast-moving prey using their keen eyesight. A running cat can trigger a sighthound’s prey drive with dangerous consequences. Some retired racing Greyhounds can be cat-tested and may do fine, but this should always be verified before adoption.

Herding breeds with intense drive like Australian Cattle Dogs and some working-line Border Collies may obsessively chase and attempt to herd cats, causing stress and potential injury. While herding behavior is different from predatory behavior, it can be equally distressing for a cat on the receiving end.

Northern breeds such as Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and Shiba Inus often have strong prey drives rooted in their history as working dogs in harsh environments. These breeds may see cats as prey rather than companions, and supervision should never be relaxed even after apparently successful introductions.

How to Introduce a Dog to Your Cat

Even the most cat-friendly breed requires a careful, gradual introduction to your existing cat. Rushing this process is one of the most common mistakes pet owners make, and it can result in lasting fear, aggression, and stress for both animals.

Start with scent exchange. Before the dog and cat ever see each other, allow them to become familiar with each other’s scent. Swap bedding between them, rub a cloth on one animal and place it near the other, and allow each animal to explore the other’s living space while the other is safely confined elsewhere.

Use visual barriers. After several days of scent exchange, allow the dog and cat to see each other through a baby gate or a cracked door. Keep these visual introductions brief and positive, with treats and praise for calm behavior from both animals.

Supervised meetings on leash. The first face-to-face meetings should be short, calm, and controlled. Keep the dog on a leash and allow the cat to move freely, ensuring the cat always has an escape route to a dog-free zone. Reward both animals for calm, relaxed behavior. If either animal shows signs of stress or aggression, end the session calmly and try again later.

Gradually increase freedom. Over days or weeks, gradually increase the duration and freedom of interactions. Never leave the dog and cat unsupervised until you are completely confident that both animals are comfortable and safe.

For a detailed, step-by-step introduction protocol, our guide on how to introduce a dog to a cat provides everything you need for a successful first meeting and beyond.

Setting Up Your Home for Dogs and Cats

A harmonious multi-species household requires more than just the right breed match. Your home environment plays a huge role in how well dogs and cats coexist.

Create cat-only zones. Every cat in a dog-and-cat household needs access to spaces where the dog cannot reach them. Cat trees, high shelves, baby-gated rooms, and elevated walkways all give your cat the vertical space and secure retreat areas they need to feel safe. A cat that cannot escape from a dog will live in constant stress, regardless of how friendly the dog is.

Separate feeding stations. Feed your dog and cat in separate locations to prevent resource competition. Dogs that eat cat food may develop health issues, and cats that feel their food is threatened may become anxious or aggressive. Elevated feeding stations or microchip-activated feeders can help ensure each animal eats in peace.

Protect the litter box. Dogs are notorious for getting into cat litter boxes, which is both unhygienic and stressful for the cat. Place litter boxes in areas the dog cannot access, such as behind baby gates with openings too small for the dog, in rooms with cat-sized door openings, or in elevated locations.

Provide individual attention. Both dogs and cats need one-on-one time with their humans. Make sure each animal gets dedicated attention, play, and affection without competition from the other pet. This reduces jealousy and strengthens your bond with each animal individually.

If you are also curious about which cat breeds are most compatible with dogs, our guide to cat breeds that get along with dogs covers the feline side of the equation. And for broader breed guidance, our roundup of the best family dogs includes compatibility considerations for multi-pet households.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can any dog learn to live with a cat regardless of breed?

In theory, many dogs can learn to coexist with cats if they are properly introduced, trained, and supervised. However, some individual dogs have prey drives that are too strong to be reliably managed around cats, regardless of training. Breed tendencies give you a starting point, but the individual dog’s temperament, history, and training are what ultimately determine compatibility. Always introduce animals slowly and be prepared to accept that some dog-cat pairings may never be safe to leave unsupervised.

Is it easier to introduce a puppy to a cat or an adult dog?

Puppies are generally easier to introduce because they have not yet developed fixed behavioral patterns and are more adaptable to new social situations. A puppy raised with cats from a young age is likely to see cats as normal housemates throughout their life. However, puppies can be overwhelming for cats due to their boundless energy and lack of manners. Adult dogs that have been cat-tested or that have a known history of living peacefully with cats can be equally good or even better choices because their behavior is more predictable.

What if my cat is the aggressive one toward the dog?

Cat-to-dog aggression is a common scenario, especially when a new dog enters an established cat’s territory. Cats may hiss, swat, or chase dogs, particularly smaller breeds. In most cases, this behavior diminishes as the cat adjusts to the dog’s presence, provided the introduction is handled gradually and the cat retains access to safe, dog-free zones. If a cat’s aggression toward the dog persists beyond the initial adjustment period, consult with a veterinary behaviorist for personalized guidance. Never punish the cat for defensive behavior, as this will only increase their stress and worsen the situation.