21 dogs that get along with cats

Even if the butterfly-ears tempted your cat to play, the Papillon probably wouldn’t mind. They would probably see it as a friendly game. Papillons are up for anything, with anyone, all the time. Need two more reasons why a Papillon is a good option for the best dog breeds for cats? As a small dog lap lover, they can snuggle side by side on you with their kitty sibling. And they can both potty indoors, as the Papillon can learn to use an indoor potty system.

Unlike some toy breed dogs who like to whoof-it-up when they hear a pin drop, you probably won’t have too many barking issues with a Tibetan spaniel. Thank goodness, because non-stop barking could unravel your cat’s nerves. Tibbies are little fluffy lovers who are happy-go-lucky and fiercely devoted to their human. Yet they do have a little independence streak that is adorably frustrating at times. Like some cats, they favour higher places to observe and hold court. In time, your cat and Tibbie may rule you, but you won’t care because they’re the cutest monarchs you’ve ever seen.

These are the quietest dog breeds that won’t bark too much.

You might want to get a pet camera to keep tabs on the shenanigans your cat and pug could get up to. Pugs were voted ‘class clown’ at doggy obedience class. You can bet they are going to be stoked to have a sidekick to join their fun and games. Your cat won’t have dull days waiting near the window and then playing hard to get when you get home anymore. Don’t worry about being the odd one out – a pug will save enough energy for you, and be ecstatic to see you when you get home.

These sweet people-pleasers enjoy the company of other animals, making them one of the best dog breeds for cats. Cocker spaniels are playful and congenial dogs who love attention, and they don’t discriminate when it comes to who gives them that attention. They love a good head scratch from you, and their passive natures mean they’ll likely be okay with licks from a fastidious cat sibling, too. After all, someone has to keep those long curly ears clean.  Plus, they make a cosy weighted blanket for your little lion.

The Bichon Frise is one of the best dog breeds for cats. These happy-go-lucky little balls of white fluff love everybody, cats included. Frolicsome by nature, Bichons are likely to see your cat as a potential playmate. Because of their lively and bubbly personality, they may be more interested in more spirited playtime, so they might not do well with a cat that has anxiety issues.

The disposition dial on the Maltese is perpetually fixed on ‘charming and cheerful.’ Yet these little nuggets are lively and play hard, but because of their size, they could easily get toppled at the dog park. Since they make friends quickly with furry friends, playing with someone closer to their size (your cat) could be a good alternative. And although they appear to have loads of warm and cosy fur, they don’t have a thick undercoat, so they’re not keen on cold weather, so your cat will have company and a built-in snuggle buddy on chilly days.

Another member of the herding family, shelties think the world of their family, including little humans and animals alike. Because of that, they likely won’t be hung up on herding your cat as long as they get their exercise in and put their sharp intellect to use, uncovering treats with fun and challenging dog puzzles.  Shelties have a proclivity to bark when they get bored, which may be unnerving to your cat. On the other hand, a Sheltie might not get too bored around your cat, especially if it has a daily zoomie ritual that could be mildly entertaining to watch.

The German Shepherd, a revered guard dog, is known for its loyalty, which also extends to the entire family – humans and animals. Because they feel it’s their job is to look after their family first, they don’t make fast friends with other dogs they might run into on a walk. Yet when their human introduces them with proper socialisation, a German Shepherd merely assumes the cat is part of the package deal and can live harmoniously with their tabby sibling.

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Despite being one of the biggest dog breeds, Newfies are gentle giants. And Newfies are as sweet as the day is long. They’re remarkably gentle and instinctually aware of their size, around tiny humans and animals. They’re renowned for their guardian-like watchful presence while still being a kind, playful and interactive “nanny” with their “charges.” That includes small children and pets, including cats. A Newfie will likely adopt your cat and consider it a friend in due time.

Here’s a big hunk of burning love to add to the collection of best dog breeds for cats. Berners, a mountain dog breed, are sweet-tempered, with unsurpassed affection for their family. Like other working breeds, they thrive in families who enjoy outdoor activities. Berners assume they are a legit member of your family and want to be involved in whatever you’re doing, especially if it’s playing or working outside. That’s a plus for a cat who covets ‘me’ time indoors.