25 Cat Breeds That Get along with Dogs

Introducing cats to dogs can be a delicate process, especially since “most cats prefer peace and quiet and tend to be solitary creatures,” says VCA, one of North America’s largest animal hospital chains.

But some cat breeds are more compatible with dogs than others, depending on their personalities.

“Despite the stereotype, many dogs and cats learn to live together peacefully. Be patient and take the introduction process slowly, but know that whether or not your pets get along will also depend on their individual personalities,” the Animal Humane Society says.

Here we look at some cat breeds that get along well dogs and other pets.

American bobtail

This easy going breed of interactive cats gets along well with most dogs and welcomes newcomers, according to the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), the world’s largest registry of pedigreed cats.

Japanese bobtail

These energetic cats can “adjust to dogs and other animals and are especially good with children,” the CFA says.

Veterinarian Dr. Natalie Marks, a veterinary partner with global pet health nutrition company Royal Canin, told Reader’s Digest last June: “You might see the Japanese Bobtail right in the mix, retrieving toys next to his canine housemate in the home. This fun-loving breed is a great sibling to your resident dog.”

Ragdoll

Ragdolls “blend easily into the busy modern household,” and get along well with other pets, including dogs, as well as children, The International Cat Association (TICA) says.

“The Ragdoll can learn to walk on a leash and could even go for joint walks with your dog,” Dr. Marks said.

American shorthair

American shorthairs are known for their “sweet personality and amiability with children, dogs and other pets,” as well as longevity and robust health, according to the CFA.

British Shorthair

British shorthairs are tolerant with children and dogs but do not like to be carried around and prefer to be on the ground, TICA says.

“Pets of all kinds have been kept with British shorthairs, including dogs of all sizes, rabbits and birds,” according to the CFA.

Munchkin

Munchkins are an extremely sociable breed who love company including that of children, dogs and other pets, according to TICA.

Tonkinese

Preferring not to be ignored or left alone, Tonkinese get along with children, other cat breeds and dogs.

“This cat breed is super social and active, and it loves being around people and dogs. It detests being alone or ignored, so a dog would definitely be a good companion for when you’re not home,” said Dr. Marks.

Australian mist

TICA says: “Neutered/spayed cats and kittens of this breed fit in easily with other cats and dogs, a trait further enhanced through selective breeding.”

Bengal

These confident, curious cats make devoted companions and “get along well with other pets when properly introduced and enjoy being part of a family,” according to the CFA.

Siberian

This personable Russian breed of cats wants to be near their owners and enjoy the company of children, dogs and other animals, the CFA says.

Devon rex

This social breed does not discriminate when it comes to the company they keep. “They do very well with people, other Devons (often creating a “Devon pile”), cats, dogs, and even the occasional bird, ferret, or rabbit,” says the CFA.

Birman

“The traditional ‘cat and mouse’ game becomes a ‘cat and dog’ game,” with this sweet and social breed, according to Dr. Marks. “Birmans love to chase, play tag and even fetch balls, becoming the best playmate for your dog.”

Ragamuffin

Ragamuffins are great with pets as well as children. “Their calm and patient temperament lends itself to the boisterous, robust play of youngsters,” CFA says.

Norwegian forest cat

This relatively new breed in the U.S. are relaxed, friendly, and adaptable cats. They adapt even better with dogs when raised together, according to Dr. Marks.

Turkish van

This “curious and companionable” breed gets along well with dogs and other animals that “respect their right to be the boss,” says TICA.

Abyssinian

“Abyssinians are a curious breed, and [they] want to interact with everything and everyone. A dog would be no exception,” Teresa Keiger, a judge with the CFA, told Reader’s Digest. They’re also not lap cats, so they won’t be competing with dogs for that spot among owners, she adds.

Sphynx

Sphynx cats are usually found in a warm spot in the house, “curled up with a dog or cat or warm human, on top of your computer, or they will be snuggled under your bed covers,” the CFA describes.

“Sphynx seem to prefer human attention but enjoy the company of dogs and all other breeds of cats,” it adds.

Maine coon

Often described to be “dog-like,” these intelligent, highly trainable cats “make excellent companions for large, active families that also enjoy having dogs and other animals,” TICA says.

European Burmese

This loyal and very affectionate breed “become fast friends to other cats and even dogs, making them the perfect addition to your family,” according to the CFA.

Turkish angora

This loving, playful and intelligent breed is extremely adaptable, making them great for families with both young children and seniors. “They readily accept dogs and other animals, but their assertive natures often make them the ‘alpha’ pet in the household,” the CFA says.

Balinese

Bonding closely with families, “Balinese have extremely loving temperaments” and get along well with children and other pets, TICA describes.

Havana brown

Getting along well with other cats, dogs and children, human companionship and interaction are crucial for this intelligent and affectionate breed, the CFA says.

Siamese

This loyal, loving and social breed is the “perfect pet for someone who wants lots of interaction and activity. They are wonderful with children and other pets,” according to TICA.

Cymric

These people-oriented cats get on well with children and pets when properly introduced. “These even-tempered, calm cats have a lot of affection to share and prefer not be on their own for long periods of time,” TICA says.

Lykoi

Lykoi can be cautious at first in new situations but “quickly warm up to new people and new pets,” according to TICA.