It's no secret that cats
and dogs have a long-standing reputation as archenemies. But the truth is cat
and dog siblings can happily live together or even become best buddies. Maybe
you have a feline and want to welcome a dog into the family, or perhaps you
have a dog and want a new kitty. Either way, supervised introductions along
with learning how dogs and cats can coexist will help socialize and accustom these
pets to each other.
How Different Dog Breed Groups Interact with Cats
While properly introducing
your pet can be very helpful, certain breed groups exhibit instinctive
behavior, which can affect how they tend to get along with cats.
For example, dogs in the Terrier group were historically bred for hunting, and
the Terrier group includes natural-born hunters, according to the American
Kennel Club. So a running cat can trigger this predatory impulse. Likewise, the
Herding group was established to herd and protect livestock - and cats may not
appreciate this group's instinctive tendency to herd other animals they
encounter.
On the other hand, breed groups with low energy or laid-back personalities
often get along better with cats. For example, the Toy group includes domestic
dogs that have excellent coats due to their sociable nature, and the Sport
group includes many dog breeds known for their friendly personalities with
people and animals.
However, it is important to note that the personalities of these breed groups
are generalized; there are many breeds in all groups that can make wonderful
furry siblings! Discover these ten dog breeds that are especially close to
cats. Remember that the individual personalities of dogs and cats also play a
role in the relationship.
#1: Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are
one of the best dogs for cats, and "golden" is a fitting word to
describe this classic breed. Kind and empathetic, Golden Retrievers accept cats
readily as part of the family. However, this dog breed should be trained to not
chase after the kitty early on. Once that is accomplished, the happy-go-lucky
Golden Retriever and cat are sure to be a perfect match. Plus, this dog breed
is innately amiable to other people and pets!
#2: Labrador Retriever
The exuberant Labrador
Retriever, or "Lab," is a lover—not a fighter. They will happily
welcome a cat into their circle of friends. Along with befriending your cat,
the Lab is a gentle giant who will make an ideal companion for your children.
Though Labs are not the jealous type and are more than willing to share their
space with the cat, the cat must be willing to share their space with the dog
as well.
#3: Beagle
The amiable Beagle seems
to enjoy feline company—perhaps because it was bred to hunt in packs.
Therefore, it views a cat sibling as a fellow member of the group. Stick to one
Beagle, though; together, these dogs may acquire a "pack mentality"
and are more likely to team up on the cat, according to BeaglePro. Beagles' sociable personalities make them a pleasure to the
family as well as other people and animals alike.
.
#4: Pug
A Pug is the epitome of
a friendly breed and another dog that is good with cats. As long as a cat will
allow a Pug to enter their domain, they often become fast friends. Because Pugs
love attention, the kitty and Pug can bond and play while the humans are out of
the house. Plus, this dog breed enjoys lounging around so you won't have a
problem with them chasing your cat. Pugs have a sweet nature and are also
usually safe around small animals, such as guinea pigs.
#5: Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises have a
happy and entertaining personality, making them ideal siblings and playmates
with the cat. However, the Bichon Frise's outgoing personality may be too
overwhelming for a cat who likes to be left alone. Therefore, this sweet dog
breed will accept and befriend any cat who tolerates (or partakes in) its charming
antics!
#6: Shetland Sheepdog
Though a member of the
Herding Group, the Shetland Sheepdog, or "Sheltie," is known to be
cat friendly. Their mild nature, high trainability, and welcoming attitude make
Shetland Sheepdogs a good bet for cat parents because they will obey you once
they learn how to behave around the cat. Plus, Shelties do tend to bark when
they are bored, so a kitty sibling can help keep them company and curb this
behavior!
#7: Basset Hound
Although the Basset
Hound is a natural hunter, it is more interested in hunting for dinner than
hunting the cat. Basset Hounds can be stubborn while training, but their
overall laidback personality makes them friendly toward other animals, cats
included. Not to mention, the Basset Hound's easygoing attitude is often an
invitation for the cat to cuddle up beside their furry sibling!
#8: Poodle
All three Poodle sizes
make excellent housemates for a feline friend. Toy Poodles tend to play with
cats, Miniatures generally tolerate them, and Standards pretend they don't exist.
This dog breed is dedicated to its family, and its protective instinct extends
to the cat, too! The active Poodle behaves best when it gets plenty of
exercise, so with daily walks and playtime, the relationship between the Poodle
and cat can flourish.
#9: Maltese
The Maltese is sure to
be kind toward the cat, especially because this mellow dog breed is often
preoccupied with lying on the couch rather than meddling in the cat's business.
However, the cat can be the one to take advantage of a Maltese's sweet and
gentle personality. On that note, these two can live peacefully if the kitty
agrees not to tease the Maltese, such as playing with this dog breed's long
hair. Therefore, be sure to keep a close watch when introducing your kitty to
your Maltese and they will get along just fine!
#10: Boston Terrier
While Terriers are not
typically compatible with cats, we can make an exception for this gentleman:
the Boston Terrier, or "Boston." Although Bostons may engage in
chasing the cat, this is usually out of fun, not prey drive. The good-tempered
Boston Terrier is polite to kitties as well as other animals.
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How Dogs Think: What the World Looks Like to Them and Why They Act the Way They Do
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