These 13 Dog Breeds Love Cats But Avoid These 5 That Don’t

Interesting
By Maya Rivera

In the world of pets, the age-old rivalry between dogs and cats is well-known. However, not all dog breeds are averse to feline companionship. In fact, many dogs not only tolerate but thrive in the company of cats. This article explores 13 dog breeds known for their affinity with cats and highlights 5 breeds that might not be the best choice for a multi-pet household. With varied personalities and fascinating histories, these breeds bring unique dynamics to the dog-cat relationship.

Golden Retriever

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Golden Retrievers are renowned for their friendly demeanor. They often extend their amiable nature to feline friends as well. With intelligence and patience, they tend to adapt well to households with cats. Their gentle disposition allows cats to feel safe, fostering a harmonious environment.
In many homes, Goldens and cats form unlikely alliances, playing and resting together. This breed’s love for family extends beyond humans, encompassing all members of the household, including cats.
Whether chasing a ball or snoozing on the couch, a Golden Retriever’s presence brings joy to both human and feline alike.

Beagle

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Beagles, with their merry and curious temperament, can be quite compatible with cats. Their playful nature often intrigues feline companions, leading to delightful interactions. Known for their friendliness, Beagles are unlikely to show hostility towards cats.
They enjoy having company, whether human or animal, and quickly adapt to a multi-pet household. Their inquisitive nature might lead to some playful chases, but it’s usually all in good fun.
Beagles tend to respect the independence of cats, allowing them their space while still enjoying their company.

Poodle

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Poodles are not only intelligent but also quite sociable, making them excellent companions for cats. Their adaptable nature ensures they fit well in diverse household dynamics. With their keen sense to please, Poodles often respect a cat’s boundaries.
Often seen lounging together, Poodles and cats can form a unique bond. Their playful antics can lead to amusing interactions, adding life to any home.
The elegance of a Poodle combined with their affectionate nature makes them a delightful addition to any family, including those with feline members.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

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With their affectionate and gentle nature, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are well-suited for homes with cats. Their small size and friendly demeanor allow them to coexist peacefully with feline companions.
Known for their love of cuddling, they often enjoy cozying up with cats on a shared couch. Their playful yet gentle approach makes them an ideal match for cats.
These spaniels are known for their adaptability and desire for companionship, ensuring a harmonious relationship with feline friends, whether playing in the garden or relaxing indoors.

Maltese

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The Maltese, with its charming and gentle demeanor, often gets along famously with cats. Their small size and affectionate nature allow them to share spaces comfortably with feline friends.
Known for being attentive companions, they often enjoy quiet moments with their cat counterparts. This breed’s friendly disposition ensures a peaceful coexistence in a multi-pet household.
Whether they’re snuggled up together or exploring their surroundings, a Maltese’s presence adds warmth and companionship to their feline friend’s life.

Labrador Retriever

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Labrador Retrievers are known for their sociable and easygoing nature. Their adaptability makes them excellent companions for cats. Labs often show curiosity without aggression, making them ideal for a multi-pet home. Their playful yet gentle attitude ensures they get along with cats.
The Labrador’s friendly personality often leads to playful interactions, fostering a lively household atmosphere. They are quick to learn the boundaries set by their feline friends, ensuring peaceful coexistence.
Famous for their loyalty, Labs often become protectors, watching over both cats and humans alike with equal devotion.

Collie

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Collies are known for their intelligence and friendly nature, making them great companions for cats. They are typically gentle and welcoming, allowing for positive interactions with felines.
Their natural herding instincts may lead to playful chases, but with a calm demeanor, they easily bond with cats. Collies are attentive and often protective, watching over their feline friends.
Whether outdoors or indoors, Collies and cats often enjoy each other’s company, creating a dynamic and lively household environment, filled with energy and joy.

Boxer

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Boxers are energetic and fun-loving, making them likely to form close bonds with cats. Their playful nature often appeals to felines, resulting in amusing interactions. Despite their robust build, Boxers are gentle with cats.
Known for their loyalty, they tend to watch over their feline friends, ensuring a safe and friendly environment. Their lively spirit often brings excitement to the household.
Boxers’ protective nature extends to all family members, including cats, creating a nurturing and harmonious living space.

Bichon Frise

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Bichon Frises, with their cheerful and gentle nature, make wonderful companions for cats. Their small stature and friendly disposition allow them to interact with cats without intimidation.
Often seen sharing spaces, Bichons and cats can form strong bonds characterized by playful antics and mutual affection. This breed’s love for companionship extends to their feline friends as well.
Be it a shared nap or a playful chase, Bichon Frises add joy and warmth to a home with their delightful presence, complementing the calm demeanor of cats.

Spaniel Papillon

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Papillons, with their lively and friendly temperament, often make great companions for cats. Their small size allows for easy interaction without overwhelming their feline friends. Known for their intelligence and agility, Papillons engage in playful activities that can attract a cat’s curiosity.
In homes with both Papillons and cats, a dynamic and lively environment often flourishes. Their adventurous spirit complements the independent nature of cats, allowing for a balanced coexistence.
Whether playing or resting, Papillons add a touch of joy and energy to any household they share with cats.

English Setter

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English Setters, with their calm demeanor and affectionate nature, are typically welcoming to cats. Their gentle temperament fosters an environment of peace and mutual respect with feline friends.
Known for their patience, they often engage in gentle play, creating a serene coexistence. English Setters are also known to be quite protective, ensuring the safety and comfort of their cat companions.
Be it lounging under a tree or exploring the garden, this breed’s presence brings tranquility and warmth to a home shared with cats.

Great Dane

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Despite their imposing size, Great Danes are known for their gentle and friendly nature, often getting along well with cats. Their laid-back attitude allows for a peaceful coexistence, making them an excellent choice for multi-pet households.
Great Danes often form protective bonds with cats, watching over them with care and affection. Their calm demeanor ensures that their feline friends feel safe and secure.
Whether they’re lounging on a couch or exploring their surroundings, Great Danes bring a sense of peace and companionship to any home they share with a cat.

Pug

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Pugs, with their charming and playful nature, often form delightful friendships with cats. Their small size and affectionate demeanor make them ideal companions for feline friends.
Known for their sociable personality, Pugs enjoy playful interactions, which can lead to amusing and endearing moments with cats. Their adaptability allows them to fit well into a variety of household dynamics.
Whether snuggling on a couch or engaging in a playful game, Pugs bring laughter and warmth to any home they share with cats.

Chow Chow

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Chow Chows, with their aloof and independent nature, may not be the best companions for cats. Known for their strong-willed temperament, they often prefer their own space and may not appreciate a cat’s curiosity.
While they can coexist with felines, it usually requires careful introduction and supervision to ensure harmony. Chow Chows’ reserved nature means they may not actively seek out feline friendship.
In households with both Chow Chows and cats, maintaining separate spaces and respecting each pet’s boundaries is essential for a peaceful coexistence.

Dachshund

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Dachshunds, with their spirited and tenacious nature, may not always be the best fit with cats. Their hunting instincts can lead to playful but potentially stressful chases for feline companions.
While some Dachshunds can learn to coexist peacefully with cats, it often requires patience and training. Their energetic personality might overwhelm more reserved cats.
In homes with both Dachshunds and cats, providing separate areas for relaxation and play can help maintain peace, ensuring each pet has their own space.

Doberman Pinscher

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Doberman Pinschers, known for their alert and protective nature, may not always be the ideal match for cats. Their strong guarding instincts can sometimes lead to tension in a multi-pet household.
While they are loyal to their family, introducing Dobermans to cats requires careful supervision and gradual acclimation. Their intense nature might be intimidating for a more timid cat.
In homes with Dobermans and cats, establishing clear boundaries and providing each pet with their own space is crucial for a harmonious living environment.

Greyhound

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Greyhounds, despite their speed and racing history, are often gentle and reserved, preferring quiet companionship over active engagement with cats. Known for their calm and mellow nature, they tend to coexist peacefully with feline companions.
While not overtly playful, Greyhounds appreciate the company of cats and often share restful moments together. Their gentle nature ensures a non-threatening environment for cats.
Having a Greyhound in a multi-pet household brings a sense of calm and tranquility, complementing the independent nature of cats beautifully.

Alaskan Malamute

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Alaskan Malamutes, with their strong-willed and independent nature, may not always be the best companions for cats. Known for their pack instincts and assertive demeanor, they might view cats as part of their domain.
While some Malamutes can learn to coexist with felines, it requires careful training and supervision. Their energetic and dominant personality might be overwhelming for cats.
In homes with both Malamutes and cats, creating distinct areas for each pet can help ensure harmony and reduce potential stress between them.