15 Cat Breeds That Love Dogs (You Won’t Believe #7!)
Cats and dogs have a long-standing reputation as natural enemies, but the truth is, harmony is possible if you choose the right breeds and manage introductions carefully.
Some cats are especially dog-friendly thanks to their confident temperaments, playful energy, and ability to adapt to a canine companion’s boisterous lifestyle.
Whether you already have a dog and are thinking about adding a cat to your family, or you’re a cat lover curious about which breeds can coexist peacefully with pups, this guide will help.
Cat Breeds That Get On With Dogs
Below, we’ll explore 15 cat breeds known for thriving in multi-pet households, explaining what makes them a good match for dogs and what you should keep in mind when building a happy, interspecies friendship.
1. Maine Coon
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Gentle, social, tolerant of others |
| Energy Level | Moderate to high. Playful but not hyper |
| Grooming Needs | Regular brushing; their long coat can become matted if neglected |
The Maine Coon is one of the most dog-friendly cat breeds.
These cats are calm, sociable, and gentle; they often follow puppies around with curiosity and can cuddle up to a dog companion when they feel safe.
They are large, but not overly territorial, and they often display dog-like behaviors such as learning commands or playing in a very interactive way. I
If you’re considering a cat to live with a dog, a Maine Coon is among the top picks.
2. British Shorthair
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Quiet, loyal, peaceful |
| Energy Level | Moderate: enjoys play but appreciates downtime |
| Grooming Needs | Low to Moderate; short coat needs occasional brushing |
The British Shorthair is intelligent and calm, often responding to a dog’s antics with patience rather than aggression.
This breed is not overly clingy but does enjoy being part of the family.
When living with dogs, a British Shorthair often waits for things to settle down rather than reacting. They can engage in play with dogs and appreciate the companionship without needing to dominate.
3. Norwegian Forest Cat
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Affectionate, independent, nurturing |
| Energy Level | Moderate; enjoys climbing and exploration |
| Grooming Needs | High; thick double coat needs care, especially in shedding seasons |
Norwegian Forest Cats are athletic and playful, and many of them display a natural affinity for dogs when raised together.
They combine an affectionate personality with an independent streak, allowing them to enjoy both playful interactions and quiet solitude.
When a Norwegian Forest Cat is introduced properly to a dog, especially a puppy, they frequently grow into excellent companions.
4. Ragdoll
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Relaxed, affectionate, friendly with all |
| Energy Level | Low to moderate, loves lounging, but will play |
| Grooming Needs | Moderate; grooming needed especially for tail and mane |
Ragdolls are among the most adaptable breeds when it comes to living with dogs.
They are known for being unbothered by intrusion; if a dog wanders too close, a Ragdoll usually tolerates it rather than becoming upset.
Many Ragdolls happily engage in dog-style play and can even fetch toys. Because they are not territorial, they often become affectionate with their canine companions.
5. Abyssinian
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Curious, confident, social |
| Energy Level | High, loves to explore, climb, be active |
| Grooming Needs | Low; short coat is easy to maintain |
Abyssinians are intelligent and active cats that enjoy companionship and stimulating play.
Their curiosity often means they will interact with dogs, sometimes initiating chase games or shared play.
If your home has an active dog, an Abyssinian can be a good match, provided the dog is gentle and the cat has places to retreat to.
6. Birman
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Gentle, friendly, affectionate |
| Energy Level | Moderate |
| Grooming Needs | Moderate; semi-long coat requires brushing |
Birman cats are affectionate and curious without being overly demanding.
They often love playtime with dogs and may even join in games of chase.
Their calm nature allows them to adjust well to a multi-pet household, making them a reliable choice if you want harmony between cats and dogs.
7. Bombay
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Assertive, people-oriented, enjoys attention |
| Energy Level | Moderate |
| Grooming Needs | Low; sleek coat needs minimal upkeep |
Bombay cats are bold and like to know what’s happening in the house.
They enjoy attention and are often quite social with dogs, particularly if they receive enough human interaction.
Though they can like being in charge, their playful and outgoing nature often makes them good matches for canine companions.
8. Japanese Bobtail
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Outgoing, affectionate, friendly with people and pets |
| Energy Level | Moderate |
| Grooming Needs | Low to Moderate; short coat but some seasonal shedding |
Japanese Bobtails are intelligent and active; they love interacting with other animals and children.
They are often described as loving “hugs and affectionate kisses,” and their playful energy tends to match well with dogs, especially if there is mutual respect during introductions.
9. Tonkinese
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Very social, outgoing, enjoys company |
| Energy Level | Moderate to High |
| Grooming Needs | Low; short, easy-care coat |
Tonkinese cats are known for being social butterflies; they thrive on attention and companionship and often enjoy meeting strangers and dogs.
They tend to be affectionate and interactive, often engaging in play and even fetching games.
This breed is well-suited to homes where no pets are ignored, and bonding with a dog is part of daily life.
10. Turkish Van
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Athletic, affectionate, adventurous |
| Energy Level | High: enjoys swimming, play, and active engagement |
| Grooming Needs | Moderate; coat is seasonal and needs occasional grooming |
Turkish Vans are often energetic and adventurous; they particularly enjoy play and may even appreciate fetching and water.
They are affectionate toward people and, with time and proper introduction, often accept dogs as friends.
Their playful, intelligent nature makes them good companions in a lively household.
11. Siberian
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Confident, playful, affectionate |
| Energy Level | Moderate to High |
| Grooming Needs | High: dense fur requires brushing |
Siberian cats are world-renowned for their robust build and affectionate, playful demeanor.
They often adapt well to living with dogs, sometimes cuddling together or sleeping near them once trust is established.
Siberians are also resilient, thriving in busy homes where dogs are present.
12. Turkish Angora
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Friendly, graceful, alert to changes |
| Energy Level | Moderate |
| Grooming Needs | Moderate; long, fine coat will become matted if not brushed |
Turkish Angoras are graceful and enjoy companionship; they can be socially flexible and often tolerate dogs well, especially those that are calm.
They do not like sudden changes, so a steady, patient introduction helps.
Their fine coat is beautiful but requires care, especially in seasonal molts.
13. Devon Rex
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Outgoing, affectionate, loves attention |
| Energy Level | High |
| Grooming Needs | Low; curly coat needs gentle care, not much shedding |
Devon Rex cats are charismatic and playful, often seeking attention from all members of the household, including dogs.
They enjoy being involved in everything and are quite outgoing; their energy can match a playful dog’s energy level, provided that the dog is respectful of the cat’s boundaries.
14. American Shorthair
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Easygoing, good-natured, adaptable |
| Energy Level | Moderate |
| Grooming Needs | Low; short, thick coat |
American Shorthairs have a mellow temperament and adapt well to family life.
They are typically easygoing around dogs and have the balance of playfulness and relaxation that can make them compatible with canine companions.
Their short coat makes them easier to care for in mixed-pet homes.
15. Cornish Rex
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Agile, lively, affectionate |
| Energy Level | High |
| Grooming Needs | Low, thin curly coat that requires minimal grooming |
Cornish Rex cats are energetic and agile, with a playful streak that often makes them excellent companions for dogs. They love to fetch and enjoy interactive toys.
Their lean bodies and curly fur give them a distinctive look, and their active personality means they can form strong bonds with dogs when introductions are gentle.
Tips To Ensure Cats & Dogs Get Along
Even the most dog-friendly cat breed won’t automatically get along with every dog. These five practices can set up a successful cohabitation:
- Slow introduction process: Let them smell each other under the door first; short sessions together; use treats and calm reinforcement.
- Safe space for the cat: High perches, cat trees, safe hiding places, so the cat never feels cornered.
- Match energy levels: If the dog is very excitable or large, a calm, confident cat may still be overwhelmed unless training helps.
- Respect personality: A cat’s individual temperament matters more than breed – some cats of “friendly” breeds are still shy or dominant.
- Reinforce positive interactions: Reward calm behaviour, encourage gentle play, and never force contact.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a cat that’s likely to get along well with dogs, the breeds on this list are excellent candidates.
While genetics plays a significant role, so do:
- Early socialization
- Careful introductions
- Respecting each animal’s emotional needs
With patience, a calm environment, and attention to each pet’s signals, many dogs and cats not only learn to tolerate each other, they form close, loving bonds.
