Cat friendly dog breeds that get along with cats include Golden Retrievers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers, and Beagles, among others. These breeds typically possess calm temperaments, low prey drives, and gentle natures making them compatible with feline housemates. Success depends equally on proper introductions, individual dog temperament, early socialization, and creating separate spaces allowing both species to coexist peacefully.
Cat Friendly Dog Breed Overview
| Breed | Size | Temperament | Cat Compatibility | Energy Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golden Retriever | Large | Gentle, patient | Excellent | Moderate-High |
| Cavalier King Charles | Small | Calm, friendly | Excellent | Low-Moderate |
| Labrador Retriever | Large | Easy-going | Excellent | High |
| Beagle | Medium | Friendly, tolerant | Very Good | Moderate-High |
*Individual dog personality and proper introduction matter more than breed alone
Why Cat Friendly Dog Breeds Matter
Understanding dogs that get along with cats helps you:
Create harmonious households where all pets coexist peacefully
Avoid rehoming situations resulting from incompatible pets
Reduce stress for both dogs and cats in multi-species homes
Make informed decisions when adding pets to existing households
Establish realistic expectations about multi-pet dynamics
Understanding Dog and Cat Compatibility
Before exploring specific cat friendly dog breeds, understand the factors affecting successful cohabitation:
Breed Tendencies vs. Individual Temperament
Breed selection provides a starting point, but individual personality matters more than breed label. According to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home’s guidance on multi-pet households, every dog is unique, and breed is just one factor influencing cat compatibility.
Some dogs from typically cat-friendly breeds may have high prey drive, while dogs from breeds known for prey drive might be gentle with cats. Never assume breed guarantees behavior.
What Makes Dogs Cat-Compatible
Low Prey Drive Dogs with weak hunting instincts are less likely to chase or harass cats.
Calm Temperament Relaxed, easy-going dogs stress cats less than hyperactive, intense dogs.
Trainability Dogs responsive to training can learn to respect cats’ boundaries.
Size Consideration While size doesn’t determine compatibility, larger dogs can accidentally harm cats through rough play.
Socialization History Dogs exposed positively to cats during critical socialization periods (3-14 weeks) typically accept them better.
Cat’s Role in Compatibility
Success depends on both species. Cats who:
- Grew up with dogs adapt more easily
- Have confident personalities cope better
- Can retreat to safe spaces manage stress
- Receive proper introductions adjust faster
20 Best Dog Breeds for Cats
1. Golden Retriever
Why They’re Cat Friendly
Golden Retrievers consistently rank among the most cat friendly dog breeds due to their gentle, patient nature and desire to please.
Temperament Traits:
- Exceptionally gentle and tolerant
- Low prey drive despite retriever background
- Patient with feline antics
- Eager to please, responds well to training
Size Consideration: Large (55-75 pounds), but their gentle nature compensates. Supervise initial interactions to prevent accidental injuries through exuberant play.
Best For: Families wanting a large, active dog who will accept and potentially befriend cats.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Why They’re Excellent With Cats
These small companion dogs were bred for companionship, not hunting, resulting in naturally low prey drive.
Temperament Traits:
- Calm, gentle disposition
- Adaptable and easy-going
- Low energy compared to many breeds
- Friendly toward all animals
Size Consideration: Small (13-18 pounds) making them less physically intimidating to cats.
Best For: Households wanting a smaller, calmer dog likely to peacefully coexist with cats.
3. Labrador Retriever
Cat Compatibility
Labs’ friendly, outgoing nature extends to cats when properly introduced.
Temperament Traits:
- Friendly, tolerant personality
- Generally low aggression
- Trainable and eager to please
- Patient with other animals
Size Consideration: Large (55-80 pounds). Their enthusiasm can overwhelm cats initially, requiring management during introduction period.
Best For: Active families wanting a energetic dog capable of accepting feline housemates.
4. Beagle
Why Beagles Accept Cats
Despite being scent hounds, Beagles’ pack mentality and friendly nature often extend to cats.
Temperament Traits:
- Sociable, pack-oriented
- Generally non-aggressive
- Curious but not typically predatory toward cats
- Friendly disposition
Consideration: Strong scent drive means they may chase initially, but typically can be trained to accept cats as pack members.
Best For: Families wanting a medium-sized, friendly dog with pack instincts that include cats.
5. Pug
Cat Friendly Characteristics
Pugs’ laid-back, companion-focused nature makes them excellent with cats.
Temperament Traits:
- Calm, easy-going temperament
- Low prey drive
- More interested in human company than chasing
- Small size less intimidating
Size Consideration: Small (14-18 pounds), physically compatible with cats.
Best For: Those wanting a low-energy companion dog content to share space peacefully with cats.
6. Bichon Frise
Gentle Companion Qualities
These cheerful companions typically accept cats readily.
Temperament Traits:
- Friendly, gentle nature
- Low prey drive
- Playful without being aggressive
- Adaptable to various household situations
Size Consideration: Small (12-18 pounds), non-threatening to cats.
Best For: Households wanting a small, cheerful dog compatible with feline friends.
7. Maltese
Why They Coexist Well
Maltese were bred purely as companions, resulting in naturally low prey drive.
Temperament Traits:
- Gentle, calm disposition
- No hunting background
- Prefer companionship over chasing
- Adaptable nature
Size Consideration: Very small (under 7 pounds), actually smaller than many cats.
Best For: Those wanting a tiny companion dog who will peacefully share space with cats.
8. Basset Hound
Laid-Back Nature
Basset Hounds‘ relaxed temperament extends to cats.
Temperament Traits:
- Extremely calm, laid-back
- Too lazy for serious cat-chasing
- Friendly, tolerant personality
- Patient with other animals
Consideration: While scent hounds, their low energy prevents serious cat harassment.
Best For: Households wanting a calm, low-energy dog unlikely to stress cats.
9. Papillon
Small and Friendly
Despite being spirited, Papillons typically accept cats.
Temperament Traits:
- Friendly, adaptable
- Intelligent, easily trained
- Small size non-threatening
- Sociable with animals
Size Consideration: Very small (5-10 pounds), compatible size with cats.
Best For: Active households wanting a small, intelligent dog who can coexist with cats.
10. Newfoundland
Gentle Giant Qualities
Despite massive size, Newfoundlands are exceptionally gentle.
Temperament Traits:
- Extremely patient, gentle nature
- Calm, easy-going disposition
- Protective without aggression
- Tolerant of other animals
Size Consideration: Giant breed (100-150 pounds) requiring supervised interactions to prevent accidental injuries, but temperament is excellent.
Best For: Those with space for large dogs and wanting a gentle giant who accepts cats.
11. Collie
Herding Breed Gentleness
Collies’ gentle herding instincts typically don’t harm cats.
Temperament Traits:
- Gentle, predictable nature
- Intelligent, highly trainable
- Protective without aggression
- Patient with other animals
Consideration: May try to “herd” cats, but gently and without harm.
Best For: Families wanting an intelligent, trainable dog who will peacefully coexist with cats.
12. Shetland Sheepdog
Miniature Collie Qualities
Shelties share Collies’ gentle nature in smaller package.
Temperament Traits:
- Gentle, friendly disposition
- Highly trainable
- Patient, tolerant
- Responsive to boundaries
Size Consideration: Medium (15-25 pounds), good size for cat compatibility.
Best For: Those wanting a smaller version of Collie temperament with cats.
13. Irish Setter
Friendly Sporting Dog
Irish Setters‘ friendly nature extends to cats.
Temperament Traits:
- Outgoing, friendly personality
- Gentle despite size
- Playful without aggression
- Sociable with animals
Consideration: High energy requires exercise to prevent overwhelming cats through excess energy.
Best For: Active families wanting an energetic but cat-friendly large dog.
14. Poodle (All Sizes)
Intelligent and Adaptable
Poodles’ intelligence makes them excellent at learning to respect cats.
Temperament Traits:
- Highly intelligent, trainable
- Generally low prey drive
- Adaptable to household rules
- Comes in three sizes (toy, miniature, standard)
Size Options: Choose size based on preference—all three are typically cat-compatible.
Best For: Households wanting an intelligent, easily trained dog in various sizes.
15. Shih Tzu
Companion Breed Excellence
Bred purely as companions, Shih Tzus have minimal prey drive.
Temperament Traits:
- Gentle, friendly nature
- No hunting background
- Calm, easy-going
- Good with other animals
Size Consideration: Small (9-16 pounds), non-threatening to cats.
Best For: Those wanting a small, calm companion dog who will peacefully coexist with cats.
16. Cocker Spaniel
Gentle Sporting Dog
Cocker Spaniels‘ gentle nature makes them surprisingly cat-compatible despite sporting background.
Temperament Traits:
- Gentle, affectionate disposition
- Trainable, eager to please
- Generally friendly toward other animals
- Moderate energy level
Consideration: Proper introduction essential, but breed temperament supports cat compatibility.
Best For: Families wanting a medium-sized, friendly dog capable of accepting cats.
17. Boxer
Surprisingly Cat-Friendly
Despite energetic nature, many Boxers accept cats well.
Temperament Traits:
- Playful but generally gentle
- Patient with other animals when socialized
- Trainable, responds to boundaries
- Protective without excessive aggression
Consideration: Requires training and exercise to prevent overwhelming cats with energy.
Best For: Active households willing to provide training and exercise, wanting a large, loyal dog who can coexist with cats.
18. Japanese Chin
Cat-Like Dog Qualities
Japanese Chins are famously “cat-like” in behavior, making them naturally compatible.
Temperament Traits:
- Calm, independent (like cats)
- Minimal prey drive
- Gentle, quiet nature
- Naturally respectful of boundaries
Size Consideration: Small (7-11 pounds), compatible with cats.
Best For: Those wanting a cat-like dog who will naturally respect feline housemates.
19. Boston Terrier
Friendly Companion
Boston Terriers‘ friendly nature typically extends to cats.
Temperament Traits:
- Friendly, gentle disposition
- Playful without aggression
- Adaptable to household dynamics
- Generally low prey drive
Size Consideration: Small to medium (12-25 pounds), appropriate size for cats.
Best For: Households wanting a friendly, adaptable dog who can live peacefully with cats.
20. Great Pyrenees
Gentle Guardian
Despite large size and guardian background, Great Pyrenees are typically gentle with household animals.
Temperament Traits:
- Calm, patient nature
- Protective of “their” animals (including cats)
- Gentle despite size
- Independent but tolerant
Size Consideration: Giant breed (85-115+ pounds) requiring supervised interaction, but temperament generally excellent with cats.
Best For: Those with space for large dogs wanting a calm guardian who will protect rather than harm cats.
Breeds to Approach With Caution
While individual dogs vary, some breeds have traits making cat compatibility more challenging:
High Prey Drive Breeds:
- Siberian Huskies
- Alaskan Malamutes
- Most terrier breeds (bred for hunting small animals)
- Greyhounds and other sighthounds
- Many hound breeds
Note: This doesn’t mean these breeds cannot live with cats—many individuals do successfully. However, they require more careful selection, extensive training, and thorough introductions.
Proper Introduction Techniques
Breed selection is only part of success. Proper introduction is crucial:
Before Bringing Dog Home
Prepare Separate Spaces Ensure cat has dog-free zones including:
- High perches unreachable by dogs
- Separate room with litter box, food, water
- Multiple escape routes in shared spaces
Scent Introduction Before meeting, exchange bedding between pets so they acclimate to each other’s scent.
Initial Introduction Steps
Week 1: Separation with Scent Exchange Keep pets completely separated. Continue scent exchange through bedding, feeding on opposite sides of closed doors.
Week 2: Visual Contact Without Physical Access Use baby gates allowing visual contact while preventing interaction. Feed both pets near barrier, rewarding calm behavior.
Week 3: Controlled Meetings Brief, supervised meetings with dog on lead. Keep sessions short (5-10 minutes), calm, and positive. Reward both pets for ignoring each other.
Week 4+: Gradual Integration Slowly increase interaction time. Continue supervising until certain both pets are safe together.
Training Tips
Teach “Leave It” Command Essential for preventing dog from chasing or bothering cats.
Reward Calm Behavior Heavily reward dog for ignoring cat or remaining calm in cat’s presence.
Maintain Cat’s Confidence Ensure cat doesn’t lose access to favorite spots or feel overwhelmed.
Never Force Interaction Allow both pets to approach at their own pace. Forced interaction increases stress.
Managing Multi-Pet Households
Ongoing Management
Separate Feeding Areas Feed pets in different locations preventing food-related conflicts.
Multiple Litter Boxes Place litter boxes where dogs cannot access (baby gates, elevated positions).
Individual Attention Ensure each pet receives one-on-one time with you.
Respect Boundaries If cat indicates discomfort (hissing, ears back, tail lashing), intervene and separate pets.
Safe Spaces Maintain cat-only zones where they can retreat without dog access.
Signs of Successful Integration
Positive indicators include:
- Pets relaxed in each other’s presence
- Cat and dog sleeping in same room
- Shared play (appropriate, gentle)
- Cat voluntarily approaching dog
- Dog ignores cat without constant redirection
Warning Signs
Concerning behaviors requiring intervention:
- Persistent chasing despite training
- Dog fixating intensely on cat
- Cat constantly hiding, refusing to emerge
- Either pet showing increased stress (appetite changes, behavioral changes)
- Any aggressive behavior from either pet
UK-Specific Considerations
Breed Availability
All breeds listed are available in the UK through:
- Reputable breeders
- Breed-specific rescues
- General rescue organizations
Rescue Adoption
Many UK rescues assess dogs with cats before adoption, identifying truly cat-friendly individuals regardless of breed. Organizations like Battersea, Dogs Trust, and RSPCA often have cat-tested dogs available.
Professional Support
If struggling with introductions, seek help from:
- Certified animal behaviorists
- Trainers specializing in multi-pet households
- Veterinary behaviorists
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which dog breeds are most cat friendly?
Golden Retrievers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers, Pugs, and Bichon Frise consistently rank among the most cat friendly dog breeds due to gentle temperaments, low prey drives, and tolerant natures. However, individual temperament matters more than breed alone. Always assess specific dogs’ reactions to cats before assuming compatibility.
Q: Can any dog breed learn to get along with cats?
While most dogs can learn to coexist peacefully with cats through proper introduction and training, success rates vary by breed, individual temperament, and early socialization. Dogs from breeds with high prey drives require more extensive training. Dogs socialized with cats during critical developmental periods (3-14 weeks) typically accept them more readily regardless of breed.
Q: How long does it take for dogs and cats to get along?
Initial introductions typically take 2-4 weeks minimum, with full comfortable coexistence developing over 2-6 months. Some pairs bond quickly within weeks, while others require months to establish peaceful relationships. Never rush introductions. Individual personalities, previous experiences, and introduction techniques significantly affect timelines.
Q: What’s the best age to introduce dogs and cats?
Puppies under 16 weeks and kittens under 16 weeks adapt most easily to multi-species households due to ongoing socialization periods. However, adult dogs and cats can successfully integrate with proper introduction techniques. Adult animals with previous positive exposure to other species often integrate well. Age matters less than temperament and introduction approach.
Q: Should I get a dog or cat first?
Either order can work with proper planning. Getting a cat first allows establishing cat’s territory before introducing dog. Getting a dog first means training solid obedience before adding cat. The most important factor is choosing cat-friendly dog breeds and individual pets with appropriate temperaments, regardless of order.
Q: Do male or female dogs get along better with cats?
Sex generally matters less than individual temperament, breed, and socialization history. Neutered/spayed dogs of either sex typically show less territorial and dominant behavior, improving cat compatibility. Focus on choosing dogs that get along with cats based on temperament testing rather than sex.
Q: What should I do if my dog chases my cat?
Immediately interrupt chasing with “leave it” command, redirect dog’s attention, and reward compliance. Never punish after the fact. Prevent unsupervised access until training is solid. Increase exercise to reduce dog’s energy. Consider professional trainer consultation if chasing persists despite training, as this can escalate into dangerous behavior.
Final Thoughts
Choosing cat friendly dog breeds provides a foundation for successful multi-pet households, but breed alone doesn’t guarantee harmony. Individual temperament, proper introductions, ongoing management, and realistic expectations matter equally.
The 20 breeds listed consistently demonstrate traits supporting dog and cat compatibility: gentle temperaments, low prey drives, trainability, and tolerant natures. However, every dog is unique. A Golden Retriever with high prey drive may struggle with cats, while a well-socialized terrier might peacefully coexist.
When selecting the best dog breeds for cats, prioritize individual temperament assessment over breed labels. Meet specific dogs, observe their reactions to cats if possible, and honestly assess whether their personality suits multi-species living. Rescue organizations often test dogs with cats, providing valuable real-world compatibility information.
Success in multi-pet households requires commitment beyond breed selection. Proper introduction protocols, separate safe spaces, training investment, and ongoing supervision create the environment where cats and dogs thrive together. Rush introductions or forced interactions commonly result in stress, conflict, and sometimes rehoming situations.
If you currently have cats and want to add a dog, carefully research cat friendly dog breeds, meet individual dogs, assess temperaments, and prepare thoroughly for gradual introductions. If you have a dog and want to add cats, honestly evaluate your dog’s prey drive, trainability, and demeanor before proceeding.
With appropriate breed selection, careful individual assessment, proper introductions, and ongoing management, dogs and cats can develop relationships ranging from peaceful coexistence to genuine friendship. The effort invested in creating harmony benefits all household members—human and animal alike.
Next Steps
Planning to introduce a new dog to your cat household or vice versa?
Our complete multi-pet introduction guide provides step-by-step protocols for safely integrating dogs and cats, troubleshooting common problems, and creating peaceful multi-species households.
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Important Disclaimers
Individual Animal Variation
This content provides general information about breed tendencies regarding cat compatibility. Individual dogs vary enormously within breeds. Never assume a specific dog will be cat-friendly based solely on breed. Always assess individual temperament, meet specific dogs, and ideally observe their reactions to cats before assuming compatibility.
Mixed breed dogs may display unpredictable trait combinations. Previous experiences, socialization history, and individual personality matter more than breed labels for predicting behavior.
No Guarantee of Compatibility
Even dogs from breeds known for cat compatibility can have high prey drives, aggressive tendencies, or personalities unsuited to multi-pet households. Breed tendencies provide general guidance only, not guarantees about individual dogs.
Some dogs and cats will never achieve more than peaceful coexistence despite best efforts. Some pairs should not live together for safety reasons. Always prioritize safety of all animals over achieving ideal friendship.
Professional Guidance Recommended
If introducing pets shows signs of incompatibility (persistent chasing, aggression, extreme stress), seek professional help immediately from certified animal behaviorists or veterinary behaviorists. Don’t persist with unsuccessful introductions hoping improvement without professional intervention.
Never continue housing incompatible pets together hoping they’ll eventually adjust. This creates chronic stress, potential injury, and welfare concerns for both animals.
Supervision Essential
Never leave dogs and cats together unsupervised until absolutely certain they’re safe together—this often takes months. Even after successful integration, maintain vigilance. Behavior can change due to illness, stress, or other factors. One bad interaction can destroy months of careful introduction work.
Realistic Expectations
While many dogs and cats form close bonds, not all pairs will become friends. Peaceful coexistence where both pets ignore each other represents success. Don’t force interactions hoping to create ideal friendships shown in viral videos. Respect both species’ preferences.
Breed-Specific Legislation
Some UK areas have restrictions on certain breeds. Always verify local regulations before acquiring any dog, ensuring compliance with all applicable laws.
Adoption and Rescue Considerations
When adopting, provide honest information about existing pets. Rescue organizations assess compatibility and can identify suitable dogs for multi-pet households. Never misrepresent household composition to rescues—this creates dangerous situations and potential returns.
Health and Safety
Injured, ill, or stressed animals may behave unpredictably. New pets should undergo veterinary examination before introduction. Maintain all pets’ health care. Separate immediately if either shows signs of illness during introduction period.
Liability
Pet owners bear full responsibility for their animals’ safety, welfare, and behavior. This guide provides educational information supporting informed decision-making but doesn’t replace professional assessment of specific animals and situations.
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