Although there are plenty of dogs that get along just fine with their cat counterparts, there are some dog breeds that just seem to have a higher tolerance (or even love) for the feline species. If you have a cat (or two) and want to add a dog to your home, you may want to consider the breed choice carefully.
The following are the best dog breeds for cats
Maltese
Not only is the Maltese sporting a long gorgeous white coat, but she will greet everyone as a friend, including the family cat. Hailing as far back as to the Greeks, Romans and Egyptians, this breed is intelligent and has a lot of energy. It loves human companionship and makes a great therapy dog. The Maltese is even considered to be hypoallergenic as its hair is more human-like in nature and it does not possess an undercoat.
Boxer
The imposing appearance of a Boxer may first fool people into thinking the breed is less-than-friendly. However, once you call his name and look into his kind, soleful eyes, you will know you’ve met a dog that truly loves people. Boxers are also very intelligent and love to play, so don’t be surprised if he tries to engage the cat in some harmless romps around the house.
Golden Retriever
Voted the “most popular” breed for many years running, the Golden Retriever is an all-round great breed. It’s known for its excellent tracking skills and for being the perfect assistance and therapy pooch. The Golden Retriever does need daily exercise and would love to spend all his time in a pond or lake. This breed is the perfect family dog to go along with your favorite feline friend.
Dachshund
Better known as a “weiner dog,” the Dachshund comes in miniature or standard, with a smooth, long or wire coat. Although, it was originally bred in Germany as a hunting dog, this breed is known to do well with cats. It’s a sturdy pooch that is highly intelligent; however, he does tend to be a bid on the stubborn. Perhaps this may be why he does well with the tenacity and willful nature of most cats.
Poodle
This breed may be very “primped-up” in the show ring, but it was originally bred to do water retrieval for hunters. The Poodle comes in three sizes; toy, miniature and standard. It is known for its hypoallergenic, curly coat and highly intelligent nature. The Poodle bonds closely with his family members and that includes your friendly feline.
Cocker Spaniel
Another breed that once enjoyed the thrill of the retrieval for hunters, the Cocker Spaniel is now finding its way into the hearts and homes as a companion pet. It has a gentle, fun-loving nature and is just as content to lounge with its human or play in the backyard with the kids. The Cocker is loving and tends to get along with other pets.
Collie
Made famous for its television and movie portrayal of “Lassie,” the Collie is a great family dog. It’s as beautiful to behold as it is intelligent. The Collie is a loyal and devoted breed that has a knack for foreseeing its pet parents needs. This friendly breed is eager-to-please and gets along well with most living creatures. However, since it was bred to herd, you may find your Collie is trying to herd the kids, the cat and even yourself.
German Shepherd
The German Shepherd Dog is one of those breeds that seems to be able to do it all. It is used in the military, therapy, assistance, police work, search and rescue and as a loyal family pet. It’s no wonder why it is one of the most popular dog breeds of all time. The German Shepherd is very intelligent and easy to train, taking its cues on who to like by its owner; that includes cats.
Basset Hound
This long-eared, droopy jowled and long-bodied dog seems to be the epitome of laziness. Pet parents are not sure if the Basset Hound is just too laidback to make a fuss over the family cat, or if it is truly a kinship. Either way this may be a good breed to have when thinking about adding a dog or cat to the family. However, a Basset is also a scent hound, which means he has a propensity to follow his nose. Keep a close on on the family Basset to ensure he doesn’t escape.
Beagle
This is another scent hound that will follow that trail wherever it leads him. Aside from that, the Beagle makes a wonderful addition to the home with a cat. This breed is very active and playful and loves to hike, play fetch and just be a part of the family dynamics. The Beagle’s soft brown eyes and velvety floppy ears have been winning the hearts of dog-lovers for decades.
Bichon Frise
With its button black eyes and fluffy white coat, the Bichon Frise may look more like a stuffed toy than an actual animal. It loves all members of the family, including other pets, so it may be a good addition. This breed stays small and is a minimal shedder, so it’s great for apartments and those that may have trouble with dogs that tend to shed. The Bichon’s personality is fun-loving and extremely happy, so you can’t go wrong with this sweet little pup.
Pug
This breed may have a face “only a mother can love” but he makes up for it in a fun and bouncy personality. The Pug is very even-tempered and as long as he’s getting his fair share of attention, he doesn’t mind sharing his home with a cat. However, Pug’s do tend to shed quite a bit, so for those picky housekeepers or folks who tend to react to dog hair, this sweet breed may not be for you.
Papillon
French for “butterfly,” the Papillon got this name for its large, feathery-haired ears. It was originally breed to be a “noblewoman’s” lap dog and is portrayed in paintings dating as far back as the 16th century. The Papillon stays small (usually under 10 pounds) and loves it’s human’s attention and love. Another great attribute about this adorable breed is its adaptability to circumstances and its home life, so adding a cat most likely won’t be a problem.
Conclusion
Cats and dogs have been portrayed as mortal enemies for centuries, but this “idea” simply isn’t true. There are plenty of homes that have both living together in perfect harmony.
When choosing to bring a cat or dog into your home with a resident animal, introductions should be made safely and slowly. Never plop an animal in the middle of the room and expect the other pets to instantly bond with it. This is a process that must be handled with patience, love and most of all with all pets being separated until they can safely co-exist.
In addition, even though the above dog breeds may be known to be good with cats, that isn’t to say an individual dog will necessarily enjoy the company of a cat. If you are adopting from a shelter, ask if the dog or cat has experience with the other species. If so, you may have an easier time with cohabitation.
Puppies and kittens may also have an easier time being introduced into a home with a resident dog or cat. But once again, be sure to keep the younger and smaller animals safe until you know how your resident pet will react.