10 Popular Cat Breeds That Get Along Well With Dogs
Introducing a cat into a home with dogs can seem challenging, but the right breed can make all the difference! While many pet lovers believe that cats and dogs are natural rivals, this isn’t completely true. Certain cat breeds are known for their friendly and adaptable nature, making them the perfect companions for canine friends. These breeds are not only social but also possess a temperament that allows them to thrive in multi-pet households. Whether you’re looking for a playful and energetic feline or a calm and composed one, there’s a breed that’s just right for your family dynamics.
In this blog, we’ll explore 10 popular cat breeds that get along exceptionally well with dogs, ensuring a harmonious and happy home for everyone.
1. Ragdoll: The Puppy Cats
Known for their blue-eyed beauty and fluffy, long-haired coats, Ragdolls are energetic, fun, intelligent and friendly. They have a dog-like personality and are often referred to as puppy cats. These doll-like cats roam around in the house seeking attention, learn to play fetch and love snuggling with their parents as well as canine counterparts.
- Height: 9 to11 inches
- Weight: 10 to 25 pounds
- Life Span: 13 to 27 years
- Character: Gentle, attention seekers and affectionate
2. Maine Coon: The Friendly Behemoth
Maine coons are giant, social and highly adaptable cats that can be trained like dogs and have the eagerness to engage themselves with animals and families. Their affectionate and loving nature makes it easy for them to befriend dogs. They are known for their huge size, shaggy coat and rugged appearance.
- Height: 10 to 16 inches
- Weight: 10 to 25 pounds
- Life Span: 9 to 15 years
- Character: Extrovert, active and easygoing
3. Devon Rex: The Compatible Felines
Devon Rex cats have a unique appearance because of their oversized ears and big eyes. They are playful, mischievous, fun-loving and loyal cats that need the constant attention of their parents. These cats are outgoing and love interacting and going on long walks with other pets.
- Height: 10 to 12 inches
- Weight: 6 to 12 pounds
- Life Span: 9 to 13 years
- Character: Compatible, intelligent and friendly
4. American Shorthair: Pet Friendly Cats
American Shorthaircats are versatile, independent, playful and gentle breeds that go well with children and dogs. Their short hair and round faces make them easier to groom. They have amazing hunting skills and their playfulness and good temperament make them the most pet-friendly cat breed.
- Height: 10 to 14 inches
- Weight: 6 to 15 pounds
- Life Span: 15 to 20 years
- Character: Adaptable, adventurous and affable
5. Birman: The Perfect Playmates
Birmans are super impressive cats with beautiful blue eyes, round faces, silky coats and pretty white paws. They are well known for their gentle, affectionate, relaxed and fun personalities. They love to chase, play and even fetch a ball with dogs and are very much people-oriented cat breeds.
- Height: 8 to 10 inches
- Weight: 10 to 12 pounds
- Life Span: 13 to 15 years
- Character: Playful, laid back and loyal
6. Abyssinian: The Inquisitive Kitty
Abyssinians have a loving temperament, jolly nature and adventurous personality and are known for their captivating looks. They are one of the oldest cat breeds and love getting into recreational activities. They are very sociable and affectionate and enjoy the company of other pets as they are always ready to explore new tricks and games.
- Height: 8 to 12 inches
- Weight: 6 to 13 pounds
- Life Span: 9 to 15 years
- Character: Graceful, curious and energetic
7. Japanese Bobtail: The Quick Adapters
Known for their playful, loving, energetic and outgoing personalities, they are well recognized by their pom-pom tails and quick learning skills. They have dog-like personalities and are highly trainable and intelligent. They love splashing in water and enjoy the companionship of children and dogs.
- Height: 8 to 9 inches
- Weight: 6 to 10 pounds
- Life Span: 15 to 18 years
- Character: Sociable, mischievous and enthusiastic
8. Tonkinese: The High-Spirited Furball
Tonkinese cats are super active, talkative, goofy and crave attention of their parents. They make great companions with dogs as they are fond of playing and love meeting new people and pets. They can enjoy their day alone at home with their canine counterparts because of their friendly and outgoing personality.
- Height: 18 to 25 inches
- Weight: 6 to 12 pounds
- Life Span: 10 to 16 years
- Character: Loving, innocent and fun loving
Interesting Read: Top 10 Most Intelligent Cat Breeds
9. Norwegian Forest Cat: The Introverted Individual
These large, fluffy cats have a thick coat and a composed nature. They are affectionate and family-oriented but not overly clingy, making them independent yet loving companions. Although they take time to gel up with dogs but once they do, they get along really well with their canine counterparts.
- Height: 9 to 12 inches
- Weight: 13 to 22 pounds
- Life Span: 14 to 16 years
- Character: Familial, calm anddocile
10. Turkish Angora: The Authoritative Charmer
Turkish Angora cats are known for their beautiful white coats, blue eyes and athletic personalities. They are extremely intelligent, determined and commanding and have an incredible love for playing. They make the best companions with dogs as they both keep each other entertained by indulging in mischievous activities.
- Height: 9 to 14 inches
- Weight: 5 to 9 pounds
- Life Span: 12 to 18 years
- Character: Communicative, entertaining and bossy
Tips to Introduce Your New Feline Companion to Your Dog
Here are a few simple tips for introducing your new family member to make sure that they get along well:
Analyze Behavior:
Whenever you introduce a new cat to your already existing pet, make sure you observe the body language of both the dog and cat to see how they get along with each other. Since you already know the nature of your existing pet, try to analyze your cat’s behavior and make efforts for your feline friend to adjust to the family as well.
Create a Safe Corner for the Cat:
When a cat enters a new home, it is natural for them to feel shy, uncomfortable and left out. Make a safe space in a separate room where your cat can have a comfortable time with themselves. This will allow them to feel relaxed and consider having everything your cat needs in this corner: a litter box, water, treats, toys, etc.
Keep Introductory Meetings Small:
Your dog might be excited and ready to chase the new member which can make the cat feel scared or uncomfortable. Make sure you keep the meetings short and sweet and gradually increase exposure and make them communicate with each other.
Offer Exciting Treats:
When you notice your cats and dogs getting together well, consider rewarding them with exciting treats. This will make them come out of their comfort zones, put in more effort and try eating, playing and co-existing together.
Seek Professional Help:
If you find your pets having a difficult time getting along with each other, consider contacting a pet trainer who can help with the situation.
Final Words
Each cat has unique characteristics and getting them along with dogs may look like a tedious task. But this is not always the case, especially when you are aware of the personalities of different cat breeds. Equip yourself with the information provided in this blog and have a leisure time with your pets co-existing in your home peacefully.
