However, remember these are just generalizations and there are exceptions to every rule. Be sure you take care and properly (slowly) introduce your dog and cat.
Also, remember that each dog is an individual and his temperament is a mix of genetics, training and environment. So just because a breed makes (or even tops!) this list, it doesn't mean that every dog of that breed will be cuckoo for kitties.
Though not all canines want to cuddle with cats, some breeds seem more likely to find a friend in felines than others. And when it happens, it's a pretty special thing to watch — there's nothing like seeing your cat give your dog a bath or watching your pup snuggle up with his favorite kitty. 1,654 pet owners were surveyed to determine which dog breeds should be on the list, and the results are in.
1. Bichon Frisé
Bred specifically to be a companion, the Bichon Frise is a wonderfully affectionate dog. Because his job was to entertain, his nifty repertoire of tricks made him an ideal circus dog. Today, though, he’s more often found entertaining his people at home. He is known throughout the dog world for his happy-go-lucky personality. Truly, this breed seems to love everyone and everything, so a cat shouldn’t be a problem.
2. Golden Retriever
Give this breed two brisk walks each day, play fetch games, and take him out for a good run once a week, and he is adaptable to almost any lifestyle. Friendly with everyone (strangers, children, dogs, cats, smaller pets), his bark is welcoming rather than protective. The Golden is just a nice, all-around dog that gets along with everybody. He should be fine with any cats you have in the house.
3. Labrador Retriever
Like the Golden, the Lab makes a great all-around pet and is usually fine with cats.
As long as he doesn’t think he needs to retrieve the cat for you (most cats wouldn’t appreciate a ride in a dog’s mouth, no matter how “soft” his bite is), they should get along great.
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavi is described by the American Kennel Club as a “trustworthy companion of children and thrives as part of a family”. They are the ultimate house pet and get along fine with cats for the most part.
5. Papillion
The “butterfly” dog was bred as a noblewomen’s lap pet. As such, it is a happy breed and adapts quickly to any living environment, including one with cats.
The pug is an adaptable little dog that is really up for anything. As long as he is getting attention, he doesn’t mind sharing his home.
7. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound has a reputation for being lazy. Not sure if he just doesn’t have the energy to go after a cat, or that he likes the company, but most of them get along just fine with a feline roommate.
8. Boxer
The lively and playful boxer does well with cats, as long as the cat does not mind a dog that wants to play. If you have a cat that wants a dog to ignore him, the boxer is probably not a good choice. But if your kitty enjoys getting in on the action, the two will become fast friends.
This gentle giant does great with all types of animals. Bred to protect livestock, they don’t seem to extend that to other living beings and have no issues with cats.
10. Poodle
The Dachshund might be the smallest of the hounds, but he’s the biggest in spirit. His distinctive shape first catches the eye, but people who know him appreciate his character, intelligence, hunting spirit, and absolute devotion to his people.
12. German Shepherd
13. Chihuahua
This sassy little dog has a super-size personality. He knows what he wants and goes after it with single-minded determination. For his size, he’s an excellent watchdog, but he can be yappy if he’s not taught to moderate his barking. He's known to be a real companion for a cat and enjoys cuddling with them.
14. Border Collie
2. Golden Retriever
3. Labrador Retriever
As long as he doesn’t think he needs to retrieve the cat for you (most cats wouldn’t appreciate a ride in a dog’s mouth, no matter how “soft” his bite is), they should get along great.
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
5. Papillion
6. Pug
The pug is an adaptable little dog that is really up for anything. As long as he is getting attention, he doesn’t mind sharing his home.
7. Basset Hound
8. Boxer
9. Newfoundland
This gentle giant does great with all types of animals. Bred to protect livestock, they don’t seem to extend that to other living beings and have no issues with cats.
10. Poodle
With an Einstein brain and a Three Stooges sense of humor, the Poodle keeps his people entertained. With boundless energy and a sunny disposition, he makes an excellent family dog, who gets along well with cats.
11. Dachshund
12. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd Dog is a natural protector and so adaptable and intelligent that he has performed just about every job known to dog. Since the German Shepherd enjoys "protecting" his family, he is fine with cats
13. Chihuahua
14. Border Collie
People say the Border Collie is the smartest dog breed. His ability to impose his will on sheep makes him the best sheep herding dog in the world...but watch out, because he'll try to impose his will on you, too. Gets along well with cats, as cats have a will of their own.
15. Maltese
This breed is known for a gentle, mild nature, making them a great family dog for a multi-species household. Just make sure your cat doesn’t pick on them!
Before you pick out one of these dogs, we want to mention two important things. First, you should always supervise any cat and dog when they first meet, regardless of the dog's (or the cat's) breed. Not sure how to best do a safe introduction? Here's what you need to know.
Always introduce new animals to one another safely and err on the side of caution. Even if they get along quickly and easily, you'll be setting the stage for a lifetime of comfortable companionship.
15. Maltese
Before you pick out one of these dogs, we want to mention two important things. First, you should always supervise any cat and dog when they first meet, regardless of the dog's (or the cat's) breed. Not sure how to best do a safe introduction? Here's what you need to know.
Always introduce new animals to one another safely and err on the side of caution. Even if they get along quickly and easily, you'll be setting the stage for a lifetime of comfortable companionship.
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❤ In Loving Memory Of Peaches and Becca ❤ Who Were Angels on Earth As They Are In Heaven |
