Best Cat Breeds that are Good with Dogs: Imagine the joy of having both a cat and a dog—two furry friends under one roof! But is it possible for them to coexist peacefully? Absolutely! Several cat breeds are good with dogs and can even become best of friends. Whether you’re a dog lover or a cat enthusiast (or both!), having a dog-friendly cat can be a game-changer in a multi-pet household.
So, what makes certain cat breeds more compatible with dogs? A lot of it boils down to personality. Cats that are more laid-back, social, and open to new experiences are more likely to get along with their canine counterparts. Now, let’s explore some of the best cat breeds that are good with dogs and are ready to be a part of your family.
Cat Breeds that are Good with Dogs
1. Tonkinese

The Tonkinese is known for its outgoing personality, making it one of the best cat breeds that are good with dogs. These cats are very affectionate and enjoy attention, making them ideal companions in multi-pet households. They are curious and will often approach dogs calmly, allowing them to bond over time.
Best Cat Breeds that are Good with Dogs
Tonkinese cats have a high energy level, allowing them to play and interact with big or small dogs. Their social nature ensures they don’t shy away from other animals, making them a great choice for families. They’re also known to follow their owners around, like a dog would.
Best Cat Breeds that are Good with Dogs
The playful nature of the Tonkinese makes them great companions for dogs who love to run and play. Whether chasing toys or spending time together, this cat’s dog-like personality is an excellent fit for an active household. You might even find them napping, sharing the same space.
Tonkinese cats are intelligent and adaptable, which means they adjust well to the presence of other pets, including dogs. They’re not territorial and will quickly settle into a new home. The playful nature of this breed ensures that they’ll enjoy your dog’s company and will likely form a deep bond.
According to Hillspet, with proper care and love, the Tonkinese cat will surely provide years of joy and companionship, potentially surpassing the 16-year mark.
2. Abyssinian

Abyssinians are among the most active and playful cat breeds, making them a fantastic choice for homes with dogs. Their boundless energy and curiosity make them ideal companions for large or active dogs who love to play. Abyssinians thrive in environments where they can run around and interact with their canine family members.
Abyssinians are incredibly social and enjoy spending time with other animals, making them a great choice for a multi-pet household. They aren’t afraid of new experiences, and with proper introductions, they’ll warm up to dogs in no time. Their friendly nature makes them highly adaptable and easy to get along with.
This breed is also very independent and doesn’t demand constant attention, so they’re a great choice if you’re looking for a cat that can coexist peacefully with dogs. Their energy levels might even encourage your dog to play more, keeping both pets entertained and active.
The Abyssinian cat enjoys a relatively long lifespan, typically ranging from 12 to 16 years, and sometimes even longer when given the proper care and attention. Their overall health is generally excellent, thanks to their natural resilience and active lifestyle.
3. Norwegian Forest Cat

The Norwegian Forest Cat is a gentle giant that thrives in a multi-pet household. Known for their large size and calm demeanor, these cats are one of the best choices for families with dogs. Despite their imposing size, they are incredibly patient and tolerant, making them great companions for dogs of all sizes.
This breed is known for being particularly good around children, and their relaxed temperament allows them to coexist well with dogs. They are not easily stressed and can adjust to the presence of other pets, including large dogs like Labradors or smaller breeds like Dachshunds.
Norwegian Forest Cats have a remarkable ability to tolerate different types of animals, which makes them an ideal choice for homes with both cats and dogs. They often form strong bonds with dogs and may even start following them around the house. Their loyalty is impressive, making them a great addition to any family.
As per WebMD, the Norwegian Forest Cat enjoys a long and healthy life, typically 16 years, with some individuals even living beyond that with proper care.
4. Birman

Birmans are affectionate and gentle cats that adapt well to multi-pet households, including those with dogs. Their calm temperament and affectionate nature make them one of the best cat breeds that are good with dogs. They enjoy companionship and will often seek out the company of both humans and pets.
Birmans are known for their loving personalities and can form strong bonds with other pets. Whether your dog is playful or laid-back, the Birman will often enjoy interacting and even napping with them. Their easygoing nature means they get along well with dogs of various temperaments.
Birmans are generally not aggressive and are great for families with children and other pets. They enjoy socializing, and their docile nature ensures that they will integrate easily into a home with dogs. Their tolerance and affectionate behavior make them perfect for a harmonious home environment.
In an environment where they feel loved and secure, Birmans can live out their full lifespan, often exceeding 16 years with the proper care.
5. British Shorthair

British Shorthairs are among the easiest cats, making them ideal for homes with dogs. Their calm and independent nature means they don’t mind sharing their space with dogs, and they often form a bond with them. These cats are low-maintenance and very tolerant of other pets.
British Shorthairs are also great for homes with young children. Their gentle temperament means they handle the hustle and bustle of a family with ease. They don’t mind sharing attention with a dog and will often enjoy spending time together on the couch or playing in the yard.
The British Shorthair is a breed known for its long lifespan, typically ranging from 12 to 20 years, and with proper care, many of them can live well into their late teens or even beyond.
6. Japanese Bobtail

Japanese Bobtails are playful, energetic, and full of personality. Their dog-like nature makes them one of the best cat breeds that are good with dogs. With their outgoing attitude, they are quick to form bonds with other pets, including dogs. Whether your dog is energetic or laid-back, the Japanese Bobtail will love spending time with them.