Introducing a harmonious pet household often involves the delicate balance of accommodating both cats and dogs. For those seeking canine companions that seamlessly integrate with feline friends, the solution lies in choosing the right breeds. “7 Small Dog Breeds That Can Be Raised With Cats” explores the delightful world of pint-sized pups renowned for their friendly and adaptable nature with cats. From the affectionate Cavalier King Charles Spaniel to the gentle Bichon Frise, discover the breeds that not only coexist but thrive in a multi-pet environment, ensuring peace and happiness for both you and your furry family members.
Cats and dogs living together—sounds like chaos, right? Not with the right dog breeds! While some pups prefer chasing squirrels or herding livestock, many breeds are perfectly suited to share their space with feline friends.
From the charming Cavalier King Charles Spaniel to the laid-back Basset Hound, these small dogs have the temperament to get along with cats. Imagine a Boston Terrier and your cat teaming up to rule the household—you’d never get a moment’s rest!
Of course, personality matters. While your older cat might want peace, a playful pup like a Bichon Frise might turn nap time into playtime. Proper introductions and a dash of patience are key to building a harmonious home.
Ready to discover the best small dogs that can be raised with cats? Let’s dive in—you’ll be barking up the right tree in no time!
7 Small Dogs That Can be Raised with Cats
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
|
Size |
Small |
|
Weight |
13–18 pounds |
|
Height |
12–13 inches |
|
Barking |
Moderate |
|
Temperament |
Gentle, affectionate, sociable |
Oh, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel—practically royalty among small dogs that can be raised with cats! With their gentle nature and affectionate disposition, these dogs tend to act like the peacekeepers of the animal kingdom. They’re always up for snuggles and have no qualms about sharing your lap with your feline companion.
Cavaliers are innately amiable, making the introduction process a breeze. Start with proper introductions and let your pup’s sociable nature work its magic. They’re not the type to barge into a cat’s business, instead preferring to observe before initiating play.
With playful yet calm behavior, these dogs can coexist harmoniously with cats and other animals. Their sociable breed traits and love for companionship make them ideal for families with multiple pets states Britannica.
2. Basset Hound
|
Size |
Medium-small |
|
Weight |
40–65 pounds |
|
Height |
Up to 15 inches |
|
Barking |
The low, occasional howling |
|
Temperament |
Laid-back, gentle, and friendly |
The Basset Hound is like the slow-moving roommate who’s always chill but secretly loves a good cuddle session. With their laid-back demeanor, they’re great companions for cats who appreciate a calm vibe suggests PetMD.
Bassets were bred to hunt small animals but don’t let that history fool you. They’re typically friendly toward cats and can form strong bonds with their feline friends when properly introduced. Slow and steady wins the race—let them sniff around and get used to the cat’s presence during the early socialization phase.
Their low-energy lifestyle ensures they won’t disturb a cat sibling’s nap time, making them perfect for peaceful coexistence. A harmonious relationship? Check!
3. Bichon Frise
|
Size |
Small |
|
Weight |
10–20 pounds |
|
Height |
9–11 inches |
|
Barking |
Minimal |
|
Temperament |
Playful, cheerful, and affectionate |
Bichon Frises is like that cheerful friend who’s always the life of the party but knows when to tone it down. With their playful nature and friendly disposition, they can get along well with cats and other pets notes Hillspet.
These dogs thrive in households where companionship is abundant. A feline friend can provide the perfect harmony they crave. Introduce your Bichon slowly to ensure both the dog and cat have their own space during the initial stages.
Once bonded, a Bichon and its feline companion are inseparable. They’ll share the couch, toys, and maybe even your attention without a hitch. Talk about loving companions!
4. Boston Terrier
|
Size |
Small |
|
Weight |
12–25 pounds |
|
Height |
15–17 inches |
|
Barking |
Minimal |
|
Temperament |
Sociable, intelligent, and lively |
If dogs had a comedian award, the Boston Terrier would win hands down. This sociable breed is full of personality, and their outgoing nature makes them good with cats.
Despite their high energy, Boston Terriers know how to respect a cat’s business. With proper introductions and a bit of positive reinforcement, they’ll quickly learn to form strong bonds with their feline companions.
Their love for play means endless fun for both the dog and the cat. Just make sure each pet has their own space to retreat to when they need a break.
5. Japanese Chin
|
Size |
Small |
|
Weight |
7–11 pounds |
|
Height |
8–11 inches |
|
Barking |
Minimal |
|
Temperament |
Quiet, intelligent, cat-like |
The Japanese Chin is the dog version of your cat—elegant, independent, and slightly mysterious as described by WebMD. Their cat-like behavior makes them one of the best dogs to coexist with felines.
They tend to mirror their environment, so if your cat is calm, your Chin will follow suit. Properly introducing them ensures they’ll peacefully coexist without stepping on each other’s paws.
With an affinity for feline company and calm behavior, these intelligent pups fit right into multi-pet households. Plus, their small size makes them perfect for cuddling alongside cats.
6. Pug
|
Size |
Small |
|
Weight |
14–18 pounds |
|
Height |
10–13 inches |
|
Barking |
Minimal |
|
Temperament |
Easy-going, friendly, and affectionate |
Ah, the Pug—a little dog with a big heart. Pugs have a knack for getting along with cats thanks to their friendly disposition and love for all creatures.
With proper introductions, these pups can form strong bonds with even the most aloof cat breeds. They’re gentle giants in spirit, always seeking out companionship and harmony.
Pugs tend to respect a cat’s boundaries and won’t push for attention when it’s not wanted. Their playful yet calm nature makes them ideal for fostering harmonious relationships in multi-pet households.
7. Labrador Retriever puppy
|
Size |
Medium-large as adults |
|
Weight |
25–50 pounds (puppy stage) |
|
Height |
12–20 inches (puppy stage) |
|
Barking |
Minimal to moderate |
|
Temperament |
Affectionate, intelligent, and energetic |
Golden Retrievers may get all the fame, but Labrador puppies are just as lovable and cat-friendly. Even as pups, their calm temperament, and loving nature shine through.
Early socialization is key to helping Labradors get along well with cats. Properly introducing them ensures they’ll respect their feline friend’s space while still sharing playful moments.
Despite their strong desire to play, Labradors are intelligent enough to learn boundaries through positive reinforcement. With the right training, they’ll be great companions for cats, dogs, and other pets in the household.
Tips for Introducing Small Dogs to Cats
Gradually introduce small dogs that can be raised with cats by starting with short, supervised sessions. Allow both animals to explore their surroundings while respecting individual personalities. Monitor interactions closely to prevent any signs of a strong prey drive.
Positive reinforcement helps new dogs create a safe environment, especially for older cats or kittens. Patience and consistency ensure a harmonious bond between cats and dogs.
Managing Dog and Cat Relationships
Look for signs of positive bonding, like shared spaces and relaxed body language, to ensure the right breed choice was made. If conflicts arise, address them immediately by separating pets and reintroducing them gradually.
Many breeds, including Beagles and Shetland Sheepdogs, thrive with proper training. Balancing an outgoing personality with a calm demeanor fosters lasting friendships between a dog and its cat sibling.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect balance between cats and dogs may seem challenging, but many dog breeds are naturally suited for harmonious relationships with felines. Small dogs that can be raised with cats, such as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon Frise, offer loving companionship without overwhelming their feline friends. Their calm temperaments and adaptable personalities make cohabitation a breeze.
For those seeking more dog breeds to consider, honorable mentions include Shetland Sheepdogs and Beagles, known for their herding group heritage but surprisingly gentle with cats. Dogs may have been bred to hunt or herd livestock, but many are highly trainable and capable of building bonds with other animals, including cats.
Ultimately, choosing the right breed, introducing them properly, and understanding individual personalities ensure a harmonious home. With patience, cats and dogs can form strong, lasting friendships, enriching your life with their companionship.
In conclusion, integrating small dog breeds with cats can create a harmonious multi-pet household. Breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bichon Frise, and Pomeranian are often noted for their gentle and sociable natures, making them well-suited companions for feline friends. Their adaptability, along with early socialization and proper training, helps foster peaceful coexistence. It’s important to consider individual temperaments, as personalities can vary even within breeds. By selecting the right breed and nurturing mutual respect between pets, families can enjoy the rewarding experience of raising both dogs and cats together.