Top 9 Dog breeds good with cats

MD Mustakim Jabir
Read Time 5 Min

If you’re a pet lover like me, you know how heartwarming it is to have a harmonious household where dog breeds are good with cats . But not every dog breed is a match made in heaven for cats. When you’re choosing a dog that will be sharing space with your feline friend, it’s crucial to find one that is gentle, calm, and easygoing. So, which breeds are best suited to this multi-species environment? Let’s break it down by categories like energy level, barking tendencies, ease of training, and suitability for small homes.

Understanding Dog Breed Categories

Every breed brings its own personality and energy to the table. The trick is finding the right balance for your home and, more importantly, for your cat. We’ll explore dog breeds that are known for their adaptability and compatibility with cats. Whether you live in a tiny apartment or a spacious house, there’s a breed that fits your space and your lifestyle.

Which Dog Breeds Are good with cats?

1. Basset Hounds

Basset Hounds are laid-back and gentle. Their natural calmness makes them perfect for homes with cats.

Energy Level:
Basset Hounds are low-energy dogs. They typically require around 30-45 minutes of moderate exercise daily, which makes them a good match for cats who prefer a more relaxed pace.
How Much They Bark:
Basset Hounds are not excessive barkers. They will bark occasionally, but it’s usually only when something grabs their attention.
Ease of Training:
Basset Hounds are known for their stubborn streak, which can make training challenging. However, their low prey drive means they are less likely to chase cats.
Suitability for Small Homes:
Basset Hounds can adapt well to small living spaces, provided they get their daily exercise.

2. Beagles

Beagles are curious and playful but can be good companions for cats if trained early.

Energy Level:
Beagles are moderately energetic, needing around 60 minutes of exercise each day. This could be a bit much for some cats, but they usually learn to cohabit peacefully.
How Much They Bark:
Beagles are known to be vocal, especially when they pick up an interesting scent. So, if you’re living in an apartment, their barking tendencies may be something to consider.
Ease of Training:
Beagles are intelligent but can be independent. Patience and consistency in training can help them get along with cats.
Suitability for Small Homes:
They can live in small homes, but they need regular outdoor activity to burn off energy.

3. Bulldogs

The laid-back Bulldog is famous for its relaxed and easygoing nature, making them a good match for cats.

Energy Level:
Bulldogs have low energy, requiring just about 20-30 minutes of light exercise daily, which perfectly aligns with a more sedentary cat.
How Much They Bark:
Bulldogs are quiet dogs and rarely bark, making them ideal for apartment living.
Ease of Training:
They are relatively easy to train but can be a bit stubborn. However, they aren’t prone to chasing cats, which makes cohabitation easier.
Suitability for Small Homes:
Bulldogs thrive in small spaces, needing minimal exercise.

4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

Affectionate and gentle, these dogs are known to be great with other pets, including cats.

Energy Level:
Moderate. They need about 45 minutes of exercise per day, which keeps them active without overwhelming a feline companion.
How Much They Bark:
Cavaliers are generally quiet dogs, barking only when necessary.
Ease of Training:
They are relatively easy to train and enjoy pleasing their owners, which helps in creating a peaceful environment with cats.
Suitability for Small Homes:
They adapt well to apartment living, as long as they get their daily walks.

5. Collies

Collies are intelligent and friendly, often great at coexisting peacefully with cats.

Energy Level:
High. Collies require about 60-90 minutes of exercise daily, which might be a bit too much for a cat that prefers lounging.
How Much They Bark:
Collies are known to be vocal, especially if they are bored. You’ll need to make sure they are mentally and physically stimulated to keep their barking in check.
Ease of Training:
They are highly trainable and quick learners. Early training ensures they respect your cat’s space.
Suitability for Small Homes:
Collies are better suited to larger homes with access to outdoor space.

6. Golden Retrievers

Golden Retrievers are friendly, loyal, and patient, making them ideal companions for both cats and humans.

Energy Level:
Golden Retrievers are high-energy dogs and require at least 60-90 minutes of exercise daily. While their energy level is high, their gentle temperament makes them cat-friendly.
How Much They Bark:
Golden Retrievers are moderate barkers, vocalizing when they need attention or see something exciting.
Ease of Training:
They are highly trainable, which makes introducing them to cats much easier.
Suitability for Small Homes:
They can adapt to smaller homes, but they need plenty of outdoor time to burn off energy.

7. Labrador Retrievers

Similar to Golden Retrievers, Labs are friendly and sociable.

Energy Level:
High. Labs need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily, but their friendly nature helps them get along with cats.
How Much They Bark:
Labradors are moderate barkers, especially when they’re excited or seeking attention.
Ease of Training:
Labs are intelligent and easy to train, making them a good match for homes with cats.
Suitability for Small Homes:
They can live in small spaces but will need plenty of physical activity.

8. Papillons

Tiny but feisty, Papillons are playful and often do well with cats.

Energy Level:
Moderate. They need about 30 minutes of exercise per day, which is manageable in small spaces.
How Much They Bark:
Papillons are known to be vocal, but with proper training, their barking can be controlled.
Ease of Training:
They are highly trainable and love to please, making them good companions for cats.
Suitability for Small Homes:
Papillons are ideal for apartment living due to their small size and moderate energy needs.

9. Pugs

Pugs are charming and low-energy, making them great companions for cats.

Energy Level:
Low. They need just 20-30 minutes of light exercise daily, making them perfect for a more laid-back cat.
How Much They Bark:
Pugs are not excessive barkers, which is a plus if you’re in an apartment.
Ease of Training:
Pugs are relatively easy to train and are known for their friendly demeanor, even with cats.
Suitability for Small Homes:
They adapt well to apartment living due to their low exercise needs.

When choosing a dog breed to share your home with a cat, it’s essential to consider their energy level, barking tendencies, ease of training, and how well they adapt to smaller spaces. Breeds like Bulldogs, Basset Hounds, and Pugs are perfect for quieter, smaller homes, while high-energy dogs like Collies and Labradors may need a little more attention and space. But with the right training and love, dogs and cats can live together in harmony.