8 Cat Breeds that Love Dogs

by Jessica Remitz | Pet360

Hoping to add a cat to your dog friendly home? While sociability in cats depends on the individual animal's personality, there are some breeds that are generally friendly and can get along well with other animals in the home. We've asked Emmy-Award winning veterinarian Dr. Jeff Werber to share the top breeds that can get along with dogs as well as some tips for adding a cat to a multi-pet household.

Though these breeds generally tend to live well with other pets, how well a cat does with dogs can vary greatly depending on how well they're socialized and their previous experience with other animals. Even some breeds considered more aloof can be social, Werber said, so you'll want to consider every aspect of a potential pet's personality before making a commitment to one.

#1 - Oriental

A Siamese hybrid first developed in the 20th century, the Oriental is a fun companion that loves being the center of attention in the home. With a similar body type to the Siamese, the Oriental can come in many more colors and patterns than its relative. A curious and enthusiastic breed, Orientals love being involved in all activities of its owner's life. Never too tired to chat, Orientals are softer spoken than the Siamese but love striking up a conversation with anyone who will listen.

#2 - Burmese

An extremely-people oriented breed with dog-like tendencies, the Burmese loves following its people around the home and can even learn how to play fetch. A breed that loves to give and receive affection, the Burmese is energetic, playful and can easily adapt to a variety of living situations.

Because dogs and cats have natural instincts not to live together, its important to control their interactions in the home as you introduce them, Werber said. You want your pets to have mutual respect for each other, he said, and to do that you must not force a relationship between your dog and a new cat (or vice versa). Weber's advice? Start slowly and let them adjust to each other.

#3 - Siamese

A sleek, slim breed with striking blue eyes and large ears, the Siamese comes in four traditional colors: seal, chocolate, blue and lilac point. Outgoing and social, Siamese cats rely heavily on human companionship and are natural born chatterboxes. Because the Siamese love their people, they can get lonely and sad if their owners aren't home often.

When introducing a new cat into a home with a dog, Werber suggests keeping both parties calm and having two people in the room, one to hold the dog and one to hold the cat. Should either animal begin to tense up or have a reaction to the other, try calming them down and separating them until they've relaxed, if needed. Werber also recommends keeping the dog away from your cat's claws, which can be a painful reminder for them to leave the cat alone.

Cath5 via Shutterstock
Cath5 via Shutterstock

#4 - American Ragdoll

This mild-mannered, sweet-tempered breed is easy to train and affectionate. Known for it's playful yet polite nature, the Ragdoll is will go limp like a doll the moment you pick it up. A large, heavy breed with blue eyes and a semi-long coat, Ragdolls make excellent companions for the whole family and get along well with both children and other pets.

You'll want to introduce your new cat to the family dog in a quiet room when both parties are relaxed, like mealtime or before bed. The worst time to try and establish a relationship is when there's noise and activity in the home, Werber said, which can make both cats and dogs anxious. You'll also want to make sure you provide both pets with plenty of positive reinforcements for good behavior and successful interactions with each other.

#5 - American Shorthair

A medium-sized breed with a muscular build and a sweet disposition, the Domestic or American Shorthair is actually a mix of a variety of different breeds that can come in up to 60 color varieties. With a quiet voice and an adaptable nature, American Shorthairs generally make devoted family cats and can often get along well with children, dogs and other pets in the home.

Anytime you introduce a cat to another animal (including dogs), you want them to have a safe room to retreat to if they're feeling stressed or anxious, Werber said. This room will ideally have their bed, toys and a safe space for them to go back to that's away from other animals in the home. This will allow you to control the amount of exposure each animal has to each other and help facilitate their interactions during the first few weeks together.

#6 - British Shorthair

With a round face, broad chest and short legs, British Shorthairs are generally quiet and reserved. Though they may initially be hesitant, they're known for warming up to people once they become familiar with them and tend to bond closely with their human companions. Patient and affectionate with children, the British Shorthair is good tempered and can handle spending time alone.

#7 - Norwegian Forest Cat

A curious, playful breed, the Norwegian Forest Cat loves exploring every nook and cranny of its home, including cupboards and bookcases. A natural born athlete known for its heavy winter coat and ability to survive in the wild, Norwegian Forest Cats can easily adapt to new surroundings and people. With a sweet disposition and affectionate nature, Norwegian Forest Cats love chatting with their people and prefers communicating loudly and often.

#8 - Maine Coon

One of the most popular breeds in the U.S. and among the largest domestic cat breeds, the Maine Coon is playful and fiercely loyal to its people. Obedient and laid-back, Maine Coons have been known to have a fascination with water and generally get along well with both children and other pets in the home.

Once your cat has learned where it's "safe room" is, Werber suggests letting it explore the rest of the house while your dog gets time to sniff around the cat's room. Making each animal less of a foreign or unknown object to each other can help lessen the fear that may come with introducing your pets and can help them become familiar with each other's scent and presence in the home.

Just be sure not to force any interactions, Werber said, which can backfire and cause your cat (or dog!) to be fearful. Try to make the experience as positive as possible and, if you notice any discomfort on either said, back off.

Explore more from Pet360:

9 Signs You're a Crazy Cat Lady...and OK with It

10 Lovable Cat Breeds

Can Cats Get Sunburn?

10 Most Dog-Like Cat Breeds

Blind Kitten Finds "Seeing-Eye" Cat Companion at Shelter

4 Ways to Keep Your Cat Happy