If you have a cat, adding a dog to the home can be complicated. After all, you’re looking for a pup who fits your entire family’s lifestyle—kitty’s included.
While each dog is an individual, these breeds are known to be more feline-friendly than others.
Basset Hound
Famously easy-going, Basset Hounds are low-key, patient dogs who have a reputation for getting along with everyone.
“They have a really wonderful temperament with people and other animals,” says Dr. Katie Malehorn, hospital director at Dr. Boyd’s Veterinary Resort in Rockville, Maryland. “They love to be part of the family.”
While Bassets can be stubborn and a bit on the sluggish side, they’re exceptionally tolerant of their fellow pets.
Shetland Sheepdog
Originally bred to herd sheep, the Shetland Sheepdog is a super-smart pup who looks to his human for direction. If you welcome a cat into your home, it’s likely that your loyal Sheltie will follow your lead.
“They’re really devoted to the family and the owner,” says Malehorn. “They’re very intelligent.”
Sensitive, affectionate and eager to please, Shelties tend to be intuitive when it comes to family life.
Beagle
Bred to hunt in packs, Beagles have a “no ‘I’ in team” mentality that lends itself well to living with cats.
“They very often do well with cats,” says Dr. Mary Burch, director of the American Kennel Club’s Family Dog program. “The cats are often part of the pack.”
Officially described as “merry” by the AKC, the happy-go-lucky breed may even play with a willing feline companion.
Golden & Labrador Retrievers
Golden and Labrador Retrievers are often used as service dogs due to their intelligence and easy-going personalities.
“They’re unflappable—nothing bothers them,” says Burch. “They learn fast, they’re incredibly smart. They do well with other pets and cats.”
Additionally, because Goldens and Labs are easily trainable, they tend to follow the house rules—including “leave the cat alone.”
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are one of America’s favorite dogs due to their sweet dispositions. Naturally social and playful, they’re likely to enjoy having a cat companion.
“They’re highly trainable and so gentle—very friendly with people and with cats,” says Malehorn.
What to Expect
Regardless of the breed you choose to adopt, it’s unlikely that your new dog and resident cat will fall in love.
“Don’t go into it expecting them to be best friends,” says Malehorn, who has both a dog and a cat herself. “It’s more likely they’ll coexist. If you end up being one of those families where the dog and cat love each other and snuggle up, you’re one in a few.”
When bringing home your new dog, consider the following to ease the transition:
Start slowly. When you first bring the new dog into your home, supervise their interactions. Put the cat in another room and let the dog and cat “sniff” each other through the door. Then gradually build on these interactions.
Give your cat her space. Burch recommends providing your cat with plenty of vertical space—such as a cat condo or shelves—that she can use to escape the dog and observe from above.
It’s important to train your dog to respect your cat’s space. Teach him a cue that will let him know it’s time to stop playing with the cat and move away.