10 Dog Breeds That Are Naturally Good with Cats

What Makes a Dog Breed "Cat-Friendly"?

Before we dive into specific breeds, it helps to understand why some dogs that get along with cats do so naturally while others struggle. It's not about intelligence or size — it's about temperament, prey drive, and energy level.

Dogs with a high prey drive — the instinct to chase small, fast-moving animals — are generally a riskier match for feline housemates. Breeds originally developed for hunting small game (like many terriers and sighthounds) may see a darting cat as something to pursue, even in play. On the other hand, dogs bred for companionship, herding, or retrieving tend to have softer mouths, calmer dispositions, and a willingness to coexist rather than compete.

• Low prey drive: Less likely to chase or fixate on a cat's movements.
• Gentle temperament: Naturally patient and tolerant, even when a cat swats or hisses.
• Adaptable energy level: Can match the household rhythm without overwhelming a cat.
• Trainability: Responds well to commands like "leave it," making corrections easier.
• Social nature: Genuinely enjoys the company of other animals rather than viewing them as rivals.

Keep in mind that individual personality always matters. A laid-back terrier might live happily with cats, while an unusually high-energy Golden Retriever could be a handful. Breed tendencies give you a strong starting point, but getting to know the specific dog — especially if you're adopting — is essential.

The 10 Best Dog Breeds Good with Cats

We've selected these breeds based on temperament research, breeder recommendations, and real-world reports from multi-pet families. Here's a quick comparison before we dig into each one.

1. Golden Retriever

There's a reason Goldens top almost every "family-friendly" list — their gentle, eager-to-please nature extends to cats just as warmly as it does to humans. Golden Retrievers were bred to retrieve game without damaging it, which translates to a remarkably soft mouth and low aggression. Most Goldens will approach a cat with curiosity and genuine friendliness rather than predatory intent. They're patient enough to tolerate a cat's boundaries, and they often become outright affectionate with their feline siblings. Just make sure your Golden gets plenty of exercise, because a bored, pent-up retriever can be overly exuberant for a cat who values personal space.

2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

If you're looking for a small dog that genuinely wants to be friends with your cat, the Cavalier is a dream. These spaniels are affectionate to their core and have almost no prey drive. They were bred as lap dogs for royalty, and they carry that gentle, companionable spirit into every relationship — humans, cats, and even smaller pets. Their moderate energy means they're happy to nap alongside a cat without getting rambunctious, making them one of the best cat-friendly dog breeds for apartment living.

3. Basset Hound

Basset Hounds are the definition of easygoing. While they do have scent-hound instincts, their energy level is so low that they rarely act on the urge to chase. Bassets are famously stubborn but also remarkably tolerant, making them unlikely to react aggressively even if a cat decides to test boundaries. Their relaxed demeanor is especially welcome in households that already have a confident, territorial cat.

4. Labrador Retriever

America's most popular breed earns its spot here for many of the same reasons as the Golden Retriever: low aggression, high trainability, and a friendly disposition toward other animals. Labs can be boisterous as puppies, so early socialization with cats is important. Once they learn household manners, though, they're among the most reliable dogs that get along with cats. Their eagerness to follow commands makes redirecting any unwanted behavior straightforward.

5. Pug

Pugs were bred for one thing — companionship — and they excel at it with every species in the house. Their small size means they're less physically intimidating to cats, and their comedic, laid-back personality makes them more likely to flop down next to a cat than chase one. Pugs can be prone to overheating, so they naturally gravitate toward the same cool, shady spots your cat loves, which often leads to adorable shared napping.

More Cat-Friendly Breeds to Consider

6. Beagle

Beagles are pack animals through and through. They thrive in the company of others — dogs, cats, kids, you name it. Their scent-hound heritage gives them a moderate prey drive, so supervision during the early introduction period is wise. But once a Beagle accepts a cat as part of the pack, the bond is often unshakeable. Beagles are also wonderfully sized for families with children, as they're sturdy enough for play yet compact enough for smaller homes.

7. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a cheerful, fluffy little dog with an almost negligible prey drive and a reputation for getting along with virtually everyone. They're also hypoallergenic (or as close as dogs get), which makes them a popular choice for families managing allergies. Bichons are playful without being overbearing, and their small stature means cats tend to feel less threatened from the start.

8. Collie

Think Lassie — loyal, intelligent, and deeply devoted to the family unit. Collies are herding dogs, which means they may try to "herd" a cat with gentle nudges rather than chase it aggressively. Most cats learn to ignore this quickly, and Collies are smart enough to read the room and back off. Their calm, protective nature makes them one of the best large dog breeds good with cats, especially in homes with young children who are also learning how to interact with animals.

9. Papillon

Don't let the tiny frame fool you — Papillons are smart, confident, and surprisingly adaptable. They're cat-sized themselves, which removes the physical intimidation factor entirely. Papillons are social butterflies who enjoy interacting with other animals, and their intelligence means they quickly learn the household hierarchy. Many Papillon owners report their dogs and cats becoming genuine playmates.

10. Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are often called "gentle giants," and they more than earn the title. Despite their enormous size (often 100–150 lbs), they are among the most patient, calm, and sweet-natured breeds in existence. Newfies have virtually no prey drive and a natural affinity for nurturing — they've historically been used as nanny dogs. Your cat may be startled by their size at first, but most cats quickly realize a Newfoundland is essentially a warm, breathing pillow that won't bother them.

Tips for Introducing a Dog to Your Cat

Even with the most cat-friendly dog breeds, a proper introduction is crucial. Rushing the process is the number-one mistake pet parents make. Here's a step-by-step approach that works.

1. Separate spaces first. Keep the dog and cat in different rooms for the first 3–7 days. Swap bedding so they get used to each other's scent.
2. Feed on opposite sides of a closed door. This creates a positive association (food!) with the other animal's presence.
3. Controlled visual introduction. Use a baby gate or keep the dog leashed. Let them see each other without physical contact. Keep sessions short — 5 to 10 minutes.
4. Reward calm behavior. Treats and praise for both animals when they're relaxed. If either shows signs of stress (growling, hissing, stiff posture), calmly separate and try again later.
5. Supervised free interaction. Only after multiple successful gated introductions should you allow them in the same room unleashed. Always provide the cat with an escape route — a high shelf, a cat tree, or an open door to another room.
6. Never force it. Some pairs take days, others take weeks. Patience is your greatest tool.

Setting Up Your Multi-Pet Home for Success

Choosing dogs that get along with cats is a great first step, but the home environment matters just as much. A few simple adjustments can prevent most conflicts before they start.

• Vertical space for cats: Cat trees, shelves, and high perches give your cat a safe retreat where the dog can't follow. Cats feel most secure when they can observe from above.
• Separate feeding stations: Feed your dog and cat in different areas. Dogs often try to eat cat food (it's higher in protein and fat), which can lead to resource guarding.
• Private litter box area: Use a baby gate with a cat-sized opening or place the litter box in a room the dog can't access. Dogs raiding the litter box is common and unpleasant for everyone.
• Individual attention: Make sure each pet gets dedicated one-on-one time with you. Jealousy can spark tension, especially in the early weeks.
• Safe retreat zones: Both animals should have a space that's entirely their own — a crate for the dog, a closed room or high shelf for the cat.

When your household is running smoothly and your dog and cat have become true companions, it's a beautiful thing — and it's worth celebrating.

Breeds to Be More Cautious With

While we're focusing on dog breeds good with cats, it's fair to mention some breeds that typically require more careful management in a multi-pet home. This isn't a deal-breaker — individual dogs of any breed can be wonderful with cats — but these breeds tend to have stronger prey drives or chase instincts.

• Greyhound & Whippet: Sighthounds bred to chase small, fast-moving animals. Some retired racing Greyhounds can be cat-tested, but caution is essential.
• Jack Russell Terrier: Extremely high prey drive and relentless energy. Can view cats as prey.
• Siberian Husky: Strong predatory instincts and high energy. Often difficult to train out of chasing behaviors.
• Shiba Inu: Independent and prey-driven. Can coexist with cats but requires very careful introductions.
• Weimaraner: Originally bred for hunting large game, they can have an intense fixation on small animals.

Making Multi-Pet Life a Celebration

There's something magical about a home where dogs and cats coexist happily. Kids who grow up with multiple species learn empathy, responsibility, and the joy of interspecies friendship. The best part? Those everyday moments — your Cavalier snuggled up to the cat, your Golden gently sniffing your kitten's ears — are the memories your family will treasure forever.

If you're looking for a way to capture that magic, PetTales creates personalized storybooks where your pets become the heroes of their own adventures. Imagine a book where your dog and cat team up for an illustrated journey — it's a wonderful keepsake for kids and the whole family. You can preview one for free with no credit card required.

Whether you're just starting your multi-pet journey or you've had a dog-and-cat duo for years, choosing the right breed sets the foundation for years of harmony. Take your time, do the introductions right, and enjoy every hilarious, heartwarming moment that comes with sharing your home with both a dog and a cat.