Although in most cases, people prefer dogs to cats and vice versa, it is not rare to find people who love both. If you are one of those, you have probably thought about keeping them both as pets. Generally, dogs and cats do not get along well, but there are a few dog breeds that do not see cats as prey. This list contains nine different types of dogs that get along with cats:
1. Golden Retriever
This breed is ranked high in almost every dog breed list. It is quite popular, mostly because of its sweet disposition. Golden retrievers are known to have a playful personality, but their prey drive is not strong. When this dog sees a cat, its only reaction is curiosity, which will then be followed by some attempts to befriend it, but only if the cat is willing.
All a golden retriever wants is to give love and get the same in return, be it from humans or cats. Golden retrievers should be given a good amount of exercise daily. Their outgoing nature and adaptability make them a potentially great companion for your cat.
2. Labrador Retriever
This is one of the most popular dogs in the United States. Labrador retrievers are quite similar to Golden retrievers in terms of personality. They are known to be friendly and passive, which is a perfect fit for a cat’s suspicious attitude. A Labrador retriever will only attack a cat if it feels threatened by it. These dogs get along with cats exceedingly well. They also get along well with everyone, regardless of the species.
3. Newfoundland
This dog can be described as a gentle giant. It is friendly to all living beings, cats included. Its interest is more on pleasing its owner than chasing down prey. Newfoundland dogs are intelligent and have tremendous strength. They have a calm disposition and are loyal. The sheer size of this dog makes it look intimidating, but in the real sense, it allows it to view a cat as a potential friend instead of a potential threat. Newfoundland is known to ignore cats, which is sometimes confusing to cats that crave attention.
4. Papillion
This dog is in some cases known as a butterfly dog since its ears are large and resemble a butterfly’s wings. A Papillion does not pose any threat to a cat because, in most cases, it is smaller. It was initially bred to be a noblewoman’s lap dog. It naturally has no interest in hunting prey. Instead of being intimidated, your cat will just be curious when you bring this pint-sized dog home. Overall, these are good types of dogs that get along with cats.
5. Pug
This dog is almost the same size as an average-sized cat. Naturally, a pug is packed with a lot of energy. Sometimes it will be the one annoying your cat, but it does not pose any threat to it. Besides, it is not designed for hunting. Its snout is squished-in while its paws are stubby; so, even if it was to attack your cat, you can bank on the fact that it is quite a terrible hunter.
6. Maltese
The temperament of a Maltese makes it an excellent pet for people who keep other animal species. This dog is friendly and easygoing, and naturally gentle. Interestingly, there is a higher chance of this dog breed getting bullied by your cat instead of the other way around. A Maltese is more interested in establishing new friendships than making new enemies. It is quite good at competing in dog sports such as obedience, rallying, agility, and tracking.
7. Boston Terrier
The Boston terrier has only two concerns, having fun and pleasing its owner. One thing you can be sure of is that the thought of attacking your cat will never cross its mind. The Boston terrier is so friendly to other living things that your cat might actually be put off by its care-free attitude. It will love your cat unconditionally. Boston terriers are highly intelligent and easily trainable.
8. Yorkshire Terrier
This is one of the most popular companion dogs. A Yorkshire terrier is also known as a Yorkie. It is quick to learn and therefore, easy to train as well. Yorkshire terriers thrive on love and attention. Similar to a cat, it has a confident attitude, which borders on cockiness. The Yorkshire terrier does not pose any threat to your cat, mostly because of its small size.
9. Dachshund
The Dachshund is variously known as the “hot dog,” a wiener dog, or a sausage dog. It is almost the same size as your cat, but with much less skill; so it’s not a threat. In fact, your cat will be amused instead of feeling threatened by this dog.
If you are looking to buy or maybe adopt dogs that get along with cats, the above breeds are highly recommended.