Miranda LaSala
Contrary to popular belief, cats and dogs are not sworn enemies. In the wild, cats and dogs compete for the same types of prey and generally stay away from each other to avoid conflict. The problem starts when canines and felines are forced to live together and interact without proper training.
With a smooth introduction, cats and dogs can exist together in harmony, explains Miranda of PurringPal.com. Of course, it does not hurt to start with dogs that are predisposed to be cat-friendly. The socialization period for puppies takes around five to 12 weeks, while it takes four to eight weeks for kittens.
- Golden Retriever
Called such due to their ability to retrieve shot game undamaged, Golden Retrievers are a good dog breed to raise a cat with. These gentle creatures are highly trainable – making them one of the most popular family dog breeds. Their playful and friendly nature means they get along with animals including felines.
2. Labrador Retriever
Also known as St. John’s water dog, Labradors Retrievers are famous for being highly active dogs that love to swim and eat. If properly introduced to and socialized with a cat from an early age, Labrador retrievers could be great companions for your kitties.
This breed is famous for its versatility. Labs can be show dogs, service dogs, rescue dogs, and more.
3. Collie
Collies are herding dogs from Scotland and Northern England which means they are smart and fast learners. Dogs of this breed adore children and are perfect family pets.
Collies thrive with companionship and constantly craves for attention when ignored. Their herding origins make them independent and they are also capable of herding other dogs and cats.
4. Pug
While their face makes them look perpetually sad and worried, Pugs are anything but. Although less active than Labradors, Pugs are fun-loving and have a generally happy disposition.
These lovable dogs have been bred as family house pets and usually follow their human owners from room to room. They can live peacefully with other dogs, children, and even cats.
5. Beagle
Described by most as “a nose with four legs,” beagles are known for their sharp sense of smell. Their small size does not hinder them from being hunters.
Beagles are active and mischievous dogs that love to eat and exercise. Being pack animals, they are easily attached to their human families and are friendly towards animals in their inner circle.
6. Maltese
Maltese dogs are true toy dogs; they are perfect companions, bred to give love and be loved. These tiny white dogs are fully packed with love and affection for their owners.
Dogs of this breed quickly learn tricks if trained early and can be taught to live with cats. A loyal-type of dog breed, Maltese is a typical show dog, and they are not built for roughhousing.
7. Boxer
True to their name, Boxers are big, strong, and active dogs and were one of the first dog breeds to join the police force. They require plenty of physical activity including playing fetch and various dog sports.
One of the most popular dogs in America, Boxers can befriend children and other animals provided, they are well-socialized since puppyhood.
8. Papillon
French for “butterfly,” the Papillon dog breed was named for its distinctive butterfly-wing ears. Papillons regal appearance made them famous pets in royal courts, but they are not high-priced.
They are smart and extremely active, needing long walks, and stimulating activities. They flourish in multi-pet homes but due to their small size, playtime with other dogs and cats should be supervised.
9. Bichon Frise
This cotton ball cloud of a dog is as sweet and loving as dogs get. It is arguably of the cutest dog breeds ever.
However, Bichon Frise dogs are known to also be one of the hardest breeds to house-train. Nonetheless, they are excellent house pets and can be properly socialized to live with cats.
10. Newfoundland
Known to be lifesavers, Newfoundland dogs are intelligent, sweet, loyal, and are ideal family pets. These gentle giants can grow up to 100 to 150 pounds and have webbed feet that make them excellent swimmers.
Newfoundlands were bred to protect livestock and their friendly trait seems to extend to cats and other animals.
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Multi-pet owners have long testified that dogs and cats can certainly live together in peace. The key to harmonious living is proper acclimation.
Cats are territorial creatures, so make sure you provide a safe space where they can escape to. Spayed or neutered pets also tend to get along better since they are less aggressive towards others. With time and patience, these furry pets will surely be close and inseparable friends.
