There are already studies that can prove how dogs and cats help with depression and anxiety. A study by the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute revealed that 74% of the people surveyed said that their pet has made them improve their mental health.
However, in this study, it is most likely that the people surveyed only either own a cat or a dog. As someone who is planning to have both pets live together, you probably are thinking if this is a good idea. Such a household setting may even let you think that having both a cat and a dog will just give you more stress because of their tendencies not to get along.
In a recent study conducted by the Journal of Veterinary Behavior reveals that pet owners of both cats and dogs believe that their pets are comfortable with each other. This should already make you feel better about having both pets.
There are factors to consider when it comes to making sure that a cat and a dog would hit it off when they get together and one of these would be the breed of the dog. Definitely, you should avoid getting a dog breed that is known to be aggressive.
It’s also a good idea to invest in some sort of calming agentto put your cat at ease when introducing them to their new companion.
Here, we will list ten dog breeds that can live well with cats.
Pug
This may seem like an obvious choice because of its size and temperament. Pugs are generally fun to have.
You won’t really have to worry about a pug chasing your cat around as this breed has a low prey drive. What you have to be vigilant about is how a cat can easily scratch this dog’s eyes.
Norwegian Buhund
It’s a great choice for a household with cats. The Buhund can get along with a cat very well, especially if it is raised with one or more.
That said, it is best to get a baby Buhund to make it easier to train to cohabit with a feline buddy.
Maltese
This therapy dog is known for its tiny size. It is a friendly and lively dog breed and won’t have a hard time getting along with other pets, like a cat. It’s a companion dog and once a Maltese gets used to having a cat around, they might always prefer to be around each other.
Havanese
This dog from Cuba may be little in size but you should know that it has a lot of love to give. A Havanese loves children and other animals, like other dog breeds and cats.
This breed tends to be quiet but it still thrives on affection. Because of its quietness, solitary cats would most likely not mind having a Havanese as a companion.
Bulldog
This dog breed may have been stereotyped to be aggressive or not friendly because of its face, but a bulldog is delightfully friendly and pleasant. It could easily get along with other pets in the household.
A bulldog only has moderate energy levels which would make a good factor for a cat breed that isn’t really too active.
Chihuahua
A Chihuahua and a cat can actually be best friends – to the point that they’d protect each other. A cat may find it easier to welcome a Chi because of its size, but this is also the reason why a lot of pet owners find this breed stylish.
A Chihuahua and a cat can actually be best friends – to the point that they’d protect each other. A cat may find it easier to welcome a Chi because of its size, but this is also the reason why a lot of pet owners find this breed stylish.
Shih Tzu
A Shih Tzu enjoys a lot of attention and would exert the effort to get the attention it needs. It likes to play with other dogs and even cats, so this breed will suit cat breeds that are considered active.
When properly trained and socialized, you won’t have a problem making it live with a cat.
Irish Setter
This redheaded dog is very active and energetic. Like a Norwegian Buhund, this dog breed would have no problem getting along with a cat, especially if it is raised with one.
This dog breed will suit active and energetic cats. Just make sure that you supervise their playtime well.
Mastiff
Known as the gentle giant, a Mastiff is generally peaceful to have. It has a good sense of things and knows if someone or something is a threat or not.
If it doesn’t have any bad encounters with cats or kittens, a Mastiff can easily get along with one.
Yorkipoo
This crossbreed of a Yorkshire Terrier and Miniature Poodle is friendly and easy to train.
Trainability is a big factor to make a cat and dog relationship work. This dog is very social and it would definitely appreciate a cat’s company once they are accustomed to each other.
