10 Cat-Friendly Dog Breeds That Make Purr-fect Roommates
These dogs make meow-velous roommates! 🐱🐶🐾
If you've ever dreamed of a household where cats and dogs live together in peace, you’re not alone. Many pet parents are looking for cat-friendly dog breeds that can share space without constant chaos. While some dogs have a strong chase instinct, others are gentle, patient, and happy to curl up alongside a feline friend. Choosing the right breed can make all the difference in creating a home where tails wag and purrs abound.
The best cat-friendly dog breeds usually have a few things in common: a calm temperament, a low prey drive, and an easygoing nature that lets them take cues from their cat companions. Breeds like Golden Retrievers, Beagles, and Basset Hounds are known for being especially tolerant, while smaller pups like Maltese or Papillons tend to adapt well to feline roommates. Even more energetic dogs, such as Boxers or Labradors, can be great fits as long as they’re properly introduced and trained. Whether you’re a lifelong cat owner thinking about adding a dog, or you’re simply curious which breeds do best in multi-pet homes, this list of cat-friendly dog breeds will help you find a pup that’s playful, affectionate, and perfectly compatible with your resident kitty.
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are famously gentle and patient, which makes them a natural fit for homes with cats. Their easygoing personality helps them adapt quickly and get along with just about everyone.
Labrador Retriever
Labs are friendly, playful, and eager to please, so they often take cues from their feline roommates instead of bothering them. Their sociable nature means they’re usually more interested in being friends than chasing.
Beagle
Beagles love company—whether it’s human, canine, or feline. Their curious but affectionate temperament means they’ll happily coexist with cats, especially if introduced at a young age.
Basset Hound
With their laid-back vibe and low energy, Basset Hounds are unlikely to bother a cat that prefers its space. They’re calm companions who tend to enjoy lounging alongside whoever is nearby.
Poodle
Smart, adaptable, and sociable, Poodles of all sizes are good at reading the room—including how a cat feels. Their intelligence makes them quick learners, so they can be trained to respect feline boundaries.
Maltese
This small, sweet breed is known for its gentle demeanor. Maltese dogs often prefer snuggles and naps over chasing, making them a cozy match for cats.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These affectionate lap dogs thrive on companionship and are usually more interested in cuddling than chasing. Their gentle personality makes them well-suited for life in a multi-pet household.
Boxer
Boxers may be playful, but they’re also known for being protective and affectionate toward their family—including the cat. With the right introductions, they’re loyal companions who love being part of the group.
Papillon
Don’t let their butterfly-like ears fool you—Papillons are confident, friendly, and adaptable. Their small size and cheerful nature make them less intimidating and more likely to get along with cats.
Shetland Sheepdog
Shelties are intelligent and trainable, and they often bond strongly with their family members—cats included. Their herding instinct may make them curious, but with guidance, they settle into peaceful cohabitation.
Tierney McAfee is a freelance writer and Country Living and The Pioneer Woman contributor who covers entertainment, holiday & entertaining, food & drinks, design ideas, DIY, and more.
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