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Well if you already have a dog but want to add a cat to your family, you might think it’s impossible. But that is not the case. While some cats and dogs do not get along, there are many cat breeds that are friendly around dogs. However, it is best to introduce a cat to the idea of living with a dog when they are kittens.
If you really want to adopt a cat but also are afraid of having a dog, You have come to the right place. These sweet big cats adore dogs just as much as you do. But unless you already have a dog but want to add a cat to your family. It makes sense to go with a breed known for getting along with dogs.
Some cat breeds are perfectly content to live in a home with dogs, and will even play with them, and snuggle up for a nap. And also steal a bite of food from their bowl. Choosing one of these 14 cat breeds will increase your chances of having a happy household. This is where your cat and dog can bond. You might even catch them napping and playing together. Which is the ultimate sign of a happy home.
The big Maine Coon cat is famous for its playful nature. This is making them a good choice for living with dogs. They enjoy playing games and going for walks. And also can share many characteristics with dogs and even enjoy the water a lot. This all-American breed has been around since the 1800s. When it’s prizing for its ability to keep rodents out of farms and ships. These large cats mature slowly. They may not reach full size until they are five years old.
Maine Coons are gentle and loving but not annoying. They get along well with other pets. And will also keep themselves entertained by playing with the dog until dinner time. They do not like sitting on people’s laps, but they do enjoy cuddling on the couch a lot.
American Shorthairs are confident and aid back cats who make excellent dog friends. They are active and fun-loving. So after presenting them to your dog, you should also find that they both enjoy partying out and playing together.
The origins of this iconic breed may be traced back to the cats brought to America on the Pilgrim ships in 1620. These cats are valued as mousers and became common on many American farms. These adaptable cats are easygoing. And while they enjoy playing, they also enjoy a good nap. They get along with both people and other animals. Dogs and most American Shorthairs get along well.
Abyssinian cats enjoy exploring everything and everyone a lot. Their confident body language means they enjoy spending time with dogs as humans do. An Abyssinian cat will not try to snuggle up on your lap, but they are friendly and very smart.
Abyssinians are a naturally curious breed. This breed always wants to interact with everything and everyone. “A dog is no exception”, says Keiger. Because they are not lap cats, your dog will not have to compete for that coveted spot. Still, that does not mean they are not interested in humans; quite the contrary in fact. Abyssinians are people-oriented and want to be close to you and know what you are up to so they can help. They are constantly on the move. This would make a very good companion for a dog who enjoys mental and physical challenges. The only time Abyssinians appear to have free time is when they are eating or napping.
The chunky Siberian cat will not be pushed around by anyone, including dogs. Your Siberian cat may end up being the boss of the entire household, including pets and humans. These big cats can weigh up to 18 pounds. If you have fallen for this large and fluffy breed. You may need to shop around for a reputable breeder because it’s a rare breed.
This hardy breed originated in subarctic Siberia. Where their thick and waterproof coat kept them safe from the elements. Siberian cats nowadays prefer to hang out in a home rather than be left to fend for themselves. They adore humans and other pets, making them a good choice for a home with dogs. Your cat and dog might even be hanging out together and playing in whatever water they can find. Because of their playful and outgoing personalities, they can easily adapt to a multi-pet household.
The lovable and strong Turkish Angora will not tolerate dog antics. In fact, they will make it clear that they are in charge. This breed is friendly and outgoing. And also making it an ideal friend for active dogs.
The trickster of the cat world Dr. Marks says: “This breed is funny and even loves playing pranks on pet canine siblings“. Turkish Angoras are friendly and loving and they also accept other furry roommates, including dogs. But, when you have a Turkish Angora in the house, your dog may not be the pack leader. These cats have strong and assertive personalities which typically makes them the “alpha” pet in the house. Turkish Angoras are charming but determined. So if they decide it is dinner time, you should listen because they will not stop until you feed them.
When you are at work, the sweet and friendly Birman makes an excellent companion for your dog. Birmans may appear soft, sweet, and a little fancy, but they are also fun and playful. You might even find your animals grouping together against you. If you’re upset about your dog being lonely while you’re at work, consider adding a Birman to the family.
You might not think of a Birman as a good playmate for your dog. Because of their posh appearance and luxurious fur. Birmans also love dogs. With this breed in your house, the traditional cat and mouse game becomes a cat and dog game, Dr. Marks explains. “Birmans enjoy chasing, playing tag, and even getting balls. And then making them the ideal playmate for your dog.”
The unique Bombay cat is an assertive and active breed. These cats enjoy knowing everyone in the house, including what the dog is up to. You might feel the need to seek permission from your Bombay cat before doing anything. They are devoted cats who form strong bonds with their human and dog friends.
The beautiful Bombay breed was created in the 1950s by combining black American Shorthairs with sable Burmese cats. These lively and loving cats are flexible, which makes them a great option for a multi-pet house. Bombay cats enjoy being the boss of all animal members of the household. So they may remind dogs of their proper place. They love trying new tricks and spending as much time as possible with their owners.
The Tonkinese is a cross between the Burmese and Siamese breeds. That produces a loving and outgoing cat with a lot to say. Tonkinese cats do not just love attention, they need it and they do not enjoy staying or being left home alone. So having a dog friend could just be the answer if you need to go out for a few hours every day. They also love learning games and playing fetch. And will be vocal if they think that you are not paying them enough attention.
These friendly cats crave attention, and they don’t mind if it comes from people or dogs. Tonkinese cats are highly social and enjoy meeting new people and making new friends.
The Turkish Van breed is unique in that it enjoys playing in and near water. In the region of Asia where they originally came from, they are even referred to as swimming cats. Because of their laid-back attitude.
They can frequently be playing with taps or dipping their paws in any water they can find. Their distinct coat, with a white body and colored head and tail, is easily identified. Because these smart cats need a lot of interaction, living with a dog can be the ideal option. They even enjoy fetch, so set up backyard training sessions where your dog and cat can learn together. They are more than willing to share their home with one or more dogs.
In the United States, the Norwegian Forest Cat is a new breed. It is native to Norway. Where it has lived for thousands of years. Because they are similar in size and appearance. You might mistake it for a Maine Coon but the Norwegian has almond eyes and a straight profile.
Their personalities are also similar, both breeds are laid back, friendly, and adaptable. Yet, according to Dr. Marks, Norwegians adapt even better to dogs if they grow up together. So adopting a dog at the same time would be ideal because These calm cats get along well with dogs. These cats may be large but they are also very gentle and friendly with their owners.
Japanese Bobtail cats are distinguished by their short bobbed tails. They enjoy being right in the middle of whatever is going on in your home and can even learn tricks like fetch and high-five. These cats will enjoy interacting with their canine friends.
Japanese Bobtails have been noticed in Japan for at least 1000 years and are a popular symbol of good fortune. Although they do not have a particularly loud voice this breed is fairly talkative. They enjoy playing and are frequently seen carrying toys around the house. These cats love playing with a tap because they enjoy the water as well. Their outgoing personality makes them an excellent match for dogs.
The British Shorthair was one of the first purebred cats to be shown at a cat show. And they have remained a firm favorite with cat lovers worldwide ever since. These easygoing cats take almost everything in stride so having a dog in the house will not bother them in the least. They enjoy receiving attention and affection, but they are not demanding because of their self-assurance.
They are more than capable of standing their ground against puppies or lively dogs.
The calm British Shorthair accepts little ruffling of their fur, including dogs. They are not as playful as some of the other breeds on this list so you will not find them chasing a ball around the house. But they won’t mind sharing their space with another dog or two.
The Devon Rex was discovered in 1959. And their unique curly coat is the result of a naturally occurring genetic mutation. These active cats are fascinated by everything that happens around them and they enjoy interacting with other pets just as much as they do with people.
Because of their thin coats, they prefer to nap in warm places. And they may end up using your dog as a comfortable pillow. They are friendly and will enjoy going for walks and learning tricks with your dog.
The relaxed Ragdoll will get along with dogs because they can not be bothered to do anything else. These friendly cats have lovely longhaired coats and striking blue eyes. They are a new breed and their name is derived from their habit of relaxing in your arms and becoming floppy, like a rag doll.
They’re relaxed, but they still enjoy playing with their canine companions. Ragdolls behave similarly to dogs. They can not wait to greet you at the door and welcome you home, then follow you around until they get some attention. They will even set up camp on your bed and cuddle with you all night.
