Dogs and cats have long been emblematic of playful rivalry, but some dog breeds come with instincts that can pose real threats to their feline counterparts. Understanding these instincts is crucial for pet owners seeking harmony at home. Our exploration delves into seven particular dog breeds known for their predatory tendencies towards cats. With proper socialization, however, these natural instincts can often be mitigated. Discover how targeted training and early social experiences can transform canine-feline interactions, promoting a peaceful coexistence and enriching the lives of both pets and their owners.
In the world of canine, there are pups that are just born with an instinct to chase—and even kill—cats. While many pups can live peacefully with feline friends, certain breeds have an intense prey drive that makes coexisting with cats a real challenge. These dogs aren’t necessarily mean-spirited, but their instincts run deep, and when a cat darts across the room, their natural response is to chase… and sometimes, things take a deadly turn.
So, what makes a dog more likely to be a cat hunter? It’s all in their history. Some breeds were originally bred for hunting, guarding, or pest control—jobs that required them to be aggressive toward small, fast-moving creatures. If a cat happens to fit that description, well, instincts can kick in fast.
If you’re a cat owner thinking about getting a dog, or vice versa, knowing which breeds have this killer instinct is crucial. Let’s dive into the ones you should think twice about before bringing home a feline friend!
Dog Breeds that Kill Cats
1. Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier may be pint-sized, but its instincts are nothing short of ferocious when it comes to small, fast-moving animals—like cats. Originally bred for fox hunting, this little powerhouse is wired to chase, corner, and even kill prey. And guess what? It doesn’t stop at foxes.
These dogs are pure energy wrapped in a compact body. With lightning-fast reflexes, boundless stamina, and a never-give-up attitude, a Jack Russell won’t hesitate to chase a cat down, no matter how fast it runs or where it hides.
Jack Russells aren’t just aggressive towards cats—they’re also notorious for their stubbornness. If they decide a cat is their target, training them out of that mindset can feel impossible. Their high intelligence makes them quick learners, but their independent streak means they often do what they want.
Adding to the challenge, this breed is known for its fearless nature, as per Petplan. Unlike other small dogs that might back off when faced with a larger cat, Jack Russells see size as nothing more than an inconvenience.
Socialization and training can help, but with this breed, instincts always lurk beneath the surface. Even if they’ve lived with a cat for years, one sudden movement could set them off. It’s not about aggression—it’s just who they are.
Quick Fact: Jack Russells were originally bred to flush foxes out of dens—so squeezing into tight spaces to chase a cat under furniture? Yeah, they’re really good at that.
2. Siberian Husky
Ever seen a Siberian Husky lock onto something and take off at full speed? If that “something” is a cat, things can go south real fast. Huskies might look like big, fluffy goofballs, but don’t let their gentle and friendly nature fool you. These dogs have one of the strongest prey drives out there, and once they start chasing, good luck stopping them. It’s not personal—it’s just instinct.
Petplan mentions that this breed is bred to pull sleds in harsh Arctic conditions, and they have insane endurance. They don’t just chase; they persist. Unlike other breeds that lose interest, a Husky will keep going until they catch what they’re after. When it comes to patience, these dogs are as relentless as they are fast.
They’re strong, athletic, and muscular, which means even a playful pounce can be overwhelming for a small feline. And when they catch something? Their bite is powerful enough to cause real damage. A Husky’s instinct isn’t just to chase—it’s to capture and eliminate prey.
Here’s another problem: Huskies are escape artists. If they want something—like a cat in the neighbor’s yard—they’ll find a way to get to it. Climbing fences, jumping over barriers, or digging tunnels are all part of their skill set.
Think keeping a Husky tired will keep a cat safe? Not a chance. These dogs can run miles every day and still have energy left to hunt. If they’re not mentally and physically exhausted, they will find a way to entertain themselves—and for a Husky, that often means chasing whatever moves.
3. Whippet
This dog moves so fast it’s a blur. These sleek, aerodynamic speedsters can hit up to 35 miles per hour in just a few seconds. Now imagine a cat darting across the room—before it even realizes what’s happening, a Whippet is already on top of it. Their prey drive isn’t just high—it’s explosive.
Whippets were developed for one thing: chasing down small, fast-moving animals. In the past, they were used for hunting rabbits and other small game, which means their instincts are sharp, precise, and nearly impossible to suppress. When they see something run, their brain says, Go!, and there’s no stopping them.
These bulky dynamos don’t just chase; they stalk, calculate, and strike at the perfect moment. A cat might think it has a head start, but a Whippet can cover ground so quickly that escape is nearly impossible.
Don’t be fooled by their couch-potato reputation. Whippets may love lounging around, but the moment something triggers their hunting instinct, they’re gone. Even a well-trained Whippet can forget every command if their inner predator kicks in.
Their bite might not be as powerful as a Husky’s, but it doesn’t need to be. Whippets kill by sheer force—slamming into prey at high speed and delivering a lethal grab. A cat caught in that situation has little chance of escape. It’s not aggression—it’s instinct.
Quick Fact: Whippets were once called “the poor man’s racehorse” because of their insane speed. And just like racehorses, once they start running, they don’t stop until they win—which, for a cat, can be deadly.
4. Weimaraner
Weimaraner is a sleek, powerful, and incredibly intelligent hunting machine. Originally bred to track and take down large game like deer and boars, they eliminate prey with deadly precision. And if a cat crosses their path? Let’s just say it doesn’t stand much of a chance.
Weimaraners have a hunting instinct that runs deep. Unlike some breeds that only chase out of excitement, these hunting dogs are wired to hunt—which means they don’t just go after a cat for fun. They go after it because their instincts tell them to stalk, capture, and kill.
Their build gives them a serious advantage. They’re fast, but they don’t just rely on speed—they’re strategic. If a cat tries to hide, a Weimaraner won’t lose interest. Instead, they’ll track it, corner it, and wait for the perfect moment to strike.
Size and strength play a big role, too. Weimaraners are muscular, standing much taller than most cats. A single well-placed swipe of their paw can knock a cat off balance, and their powerful jaws can cause instant damage.
Another major problem? These clingy dogs are headstrong, claims Orvis. Weimaraners are known as “Velcro dogs” because they get extremely attached to their owners. If a cat tries to steal attention or get in their way, jealousy can turn into aggression fast. Add their natural hunting instincts to the mix, and the situation can turn ugly in seconds.
5. Akita
Akita is calm one moment and a lethal hunter the next. These dignified dogs might look fluffy and regal, but underneath that thick coat lies a fearless predator. Akita were originally developed to guard royalty and hunt bears in Japan—so when it comes to taking down small prey like a cat, they barely break a sweat.
Akita are silent hunters. They don’t waste energy making noise. If a cat makes the wrong move, there’s no warning—just a sudden, brutal takedown. Their patience and precision make them one of the most dangerous breeds for cats.
The scariest part? Akita don’t just have a prey drive—they have a strong territorial instinct, says Hill’s Pet. They don’t tolerate intruders in their space, and to an Akita, a cat often falls into the “unwanted guest” category. Even a well-socialized Akita might decide one day that the cat is no longer welcome.
These dogs are also incredibly independent. Unlike breeds that rely on commands and human guidance, Akita make their own decisions. If they decide a cat is prey, no amount of training will stop them.
And here’s the real kicker: Akita don’t just go after cats—they can be aggressive toward other dogs too. They were bred to be lone hunters, which means they don’t always play well with others. A cat that tries to run, swipe, or even just exist in the wrong space can set off their inner hunter in an instant.
6. Alaskan Malamute
Beneath the thick fur lies a powerful, high-prey-drive dog that was built to hunt, pull, and dominate. Bred to haul heavy sleds in the harsh Arctic, these dogs had to be tough, independent, and, most importantly—relentless. And when it comes to cats? Well, let’s just say they don’t stand a chance.
Alaskan Malamutes aren’t just strong—they’re massive. A full-grown Malamute can weigh up to 100 pounds and has a bite force that can crush bones. Unlike some breeds that simply chase, Malamutes are known for their brutal grip-and-shake technique. If they catch a cat, it’s not just a game—it’s over.
What makes them extra dangerous is their natural pack mentality. Malamutes are dominant by nature, and they don’t take kindly to small animals that act unpredictably. A cat running or moving too fast can trigger their instinct to chase and eliminate.
Think socialization will help? Not really. Malamutes are known for their stubborn nature. Even with training, their prey drive remains strong. Unlike obedient breeds that follow commands without question, Malamutes prefer to do what they think is right.
Their energy levels make things even worse. Malamutes aren’t just active—they need constant stimulation. Without enough exercise, they get bored, frustrated, and destructive. And what’s an easy way to burn off frustration? You guessed it—chasing and catching a cat.
7. Australian Cattle Dog
These compact, powerful dogs were bred for control and precision, but when it comes to small, fast-moving animals like cats, their instincts turn lethal. With lightning-fast reflexes and a bite designed to grip and hold, an Australian Cattle Dog is a finisher.
Australian Cattle Dogs were bred to control their environment. They’re constantly on high alert, scanning for movement and ready to react. Their herding instincts tell them to control and dominate, but their prey drive? That tells them to eliminate.
What makes them even more dangerous is their headstrong nature. These dogs aren’t just intelligent—they’re independent thinkers. If they decide a cat doesn’t belong, no amount of training will override that instinct.
And let’s not forget their endless strength and stamina. These dogs are relentless. Once they fixate on something, they will not quit. Their intense focus and speed make them one of the worst possible dogs to have around a cat.
Think your cat can just stay out of the way? Not with this breed. Australian Cattle Dogs are known for their territorial aggression. They don’t tolerate animals that they see as competition, and to them, a cat often falls into that category. If a cat gets too close to their space, their food, or their owner’s attention, that’s enough to trigger an aggressive response.
Conclusion
Certain dog breeds that kill cats have a strong prey drive and a natural instinct to chase small animals, making them a challenge for households with domesticated cats and other pets. Some of the worst dog breeds for homes with cats include the Siberian Husky, a member of the Spitz family, known for its mischievous nature and tendency to chase. Similarly, Irish Wolfhounds, despite their friendly temperament, were originally bred to hunt deer and may struggle to coexist with small animals.
Greyhounds, with their muscular build, long legs, and fast-moving speed, are natural hunters that may view cats as prey. Likewise, Australian Cattle Dogs, a medium-sized muscular dog breed, were designed for herding and chasing small animals, making early socialization crucial. Without proper training from a young age, these breeds may not be able to get along with cats.
Several small dog breeds also have a high prey drive and may pose a risk to other animals. Terriers, such as the Jack Russell Terrier, were bred for hunting and have an innate drive to chase and kill. Even Shih Tzus, which are often seen as affectionate lap dogs, can retain a strong prey instinct, making early socialization essential.
Meanwhile, large dog breeds such as the Cane Corso and Doberman have a natural protective nature, but their muscular physique and strong prey drive can make them dangerous to small breed pets. Features like a smooth coat, silky coat, double coat, or fluffy coat do not determine aggression; rather, it is the dog’s instinct and training that matter most. Investing time in early socialization can help reduce the risk of dogs attacking cats or seeing them as prey.
In conclusion, while certain dog breeds may have a higher propensity to chase or harm cats due to their instincts, it is crucial to emphasize that individual temperament varies considerably within breeds. Effective early socialization and training are key factors in mitigating these behaviors and fostering harmonious relationships between dogs and cats. Owners should be mindful of their pets’ personalities and invest time in teaching positive interactions. By understanding their dog’s needs and taking proactive steps, owners can create a safe and peaceful environment for all pets, regardless of breed tendencies.