85 million families, and around 68% of all households, in the United States own a pet. Of those households, 60.2 million have at least one dog and 47.1 million have a cat. These statistics come from the 2017-18 National Pet Owners Survey, conducted by the American Pet Products Association. All of this data shows that both dogs and cats are popular pet choices. And that means that there are lots of people who would want both canine and feline companions in the same household. So here are some the best dog breeds for cats and dogs that are good with cats:
1. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are low-key, mild-mannered, friendly dogs that are quite tolerant of animals. They love their owner and anything their owner loves, including their cats. Plus they have short legs and a long body, so their height won't be very intimidating to cats.
2. Beagle
Beagles are happy-go-lucky, loving companions that tend to be friendly with other animals. They were bred to hunt in packs, so they often view other animals in their family - including cats - as part of the pack.
3. Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is a small, well-mannered dog who loves his or her entire family, including the cat members. Their size is similar to cats, which sometimes helps the two animals bond. In addition, Boston Terriers can be anxious and having a cat companion may help them.
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is another small breed who is affectionate and gentle. They are usually unfazed by things and are quite adaptable. All of these traits make the breed a great companion to cats.
5. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are the smallest dog breed in the world, sometimes even smaller than cats themselves. Because of this, cats often find Chihuahuas less intimidating and are thus more welcoming to them. In general, these two animals tend to bond quite well.
6. Collie
Collies are affectionate, sensitive dogs known for their love of children. But that affection also extends to cats. Just beware that your collie is a herding dog who may try and herd your cat (and you, your children, your other dogs, etc.).
7. Corgi
Corgis may be on the smaller side, but they have big hearts and a ton of affection. They love everyone in their family, including the cats. They are also adaptable, a trait that bodes well for households with both dogs and cats.
8. English Bulldog
English Bulldogs are low-energy, low-maintenance dogs that are very friendly and kind. They are easy-going and easy to get along with, which translates well to living with cats. Plus they love to sleep, so they make great cuddle buddies for cats.
9. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are known for being great with cats. Yes they are playful dogs, but they are very loving, patient and gentle. They more than tolerate cats and can easily adapt when needed, which is helpful when trying to be a cat's companion.
10. Havanese
The Havanese is a toy breed known for being loving and affectionate. They tend to love children and other animals, including cats. They are more of a quiet dog, which can make them an even better cat companion.
11. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are loving dogs who are intelligent and eager to please. They also tend to be patient and gentle. Because of all these qualities, they do well with cats and cats do well with them.
12. Maltese
The Maltese is another toy breed that gets along well with other animals, including cats. They are born to be companions, so they usually prefer being around cats rather than being alone. In addition, their small size does well for cats.
13. Newfoundland
These giant dogs may seem like bad companions for cats because of their size, but this isn't the case. Newfoundlands are gentle giants who are friendly to other animals, including cats. They want to please their owner, which means they will like or love what their owner loves, like their cat.
14. Papillon
The Papillon is a very small toy breed, that measures around the same size as a cat. Their size makes them great companions for cats. Plus they are happy, fun-loving, affectionate animals that will likely see your cat as a friend.
15. Pug
Pugs are one of the best cat companions out there because of their size and temperament. They are around the same size as a cat, are low-energy and love sleep, and have a lot of love in their little bodies. They are also gentle, which is helpful around cats.