Matching a dog’s temperament with the cats in a home is essential when introducing the dog to a household. They need to be raised together and given supervised socialization, but some breeds are too prey-driven and may not make good housemate candidates. Although training and socialization may assist, some breeds are not fitted for living with cats by nature. Here are 12 dog breeds that tend to struggle to live together harmoniously with cats.
1. Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are highly energetic, independent dogs bred to haul sleds through some of the most severe weather on earth. Their hunting instincts make them apt to chase smaller animals, including cats. They may find it hard to coexist with cats peacefully.
2. Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers are small but are very high-energy and spunky. Originally bred to hunt foxes, they possess an ingrained chase-and-hunt instinct that can render them an iffy fit for a home with cats. Proper training and supervision from an early age are crucial for a harmonious coexistence.
3. Greyhound
Greyhounds are gentle souls, but they have a high prey drive owing to their long history of racing and hunting. Cats are small and move quickly, which causes their instinct to chase to kick in. Making a multi-pet household with multiple different types of pets work takes careful introductions and supervision.
4. Beagle
Beagles have a remarkable sense of smell and were bred to track small game. They have natural prey/chase instincts, which make them want to chase cats. That said, with proper socialization and training from a young age, most dogs can learn to coexist with our feline friends.
5. Border Collie
Border Collies are known for their intelligence and herding instinct, and they can try to herd cats—this can make life stressful for your feline friend. They need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to avoid boredom and/or destructive behaviors due to sheer restless energy.
6. Weimaraner
The Weimaraner is a hunting dog full of elegance and a strong prey drive. They need consistent training and supervision when they are around cats. Some can be trained, but their natural instincts make them a tough breed to own in a home with a cat.
7. Doberman Pinscher
Dobermans are smart and loyal, but they have an instinct to hunt. However, they might be dangerous for cats without proper training and socialization, as they may see them as prey. In a multi-pet household, keeping the peace requires a consistent environment with clear guidelines to do this.
8. Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Cattle Dogs were bred to herd livestock. This could lead to a strong drive to control movement, which may translate to chasing or herding cats. Understanding that they need to be trained and mentally stimulated is essential to avoiding conflicts.
9. Irish Wolfhound
Although these large dogs are known for their gentle nature, they have a history as hunters so they have a very strong prey drive. Due to their size, they would require supervision if introduced to cats, as it can freak them out, especially if they are small.
10. Airedale Terrier
Though Airedale Terriers are very intelligent and relatively energetic small to medium sized dog, they have a hunting past which means that they are likely to chase smaller animals. They require formal introductions and continued training to ensure that they do not engage in rough play with any feline housemates.
11. Chow Chow
Chow Chows are independent, territorial animals that have been known to see other pets as competition. Their aloof temperament can make them less tolerant of cats. They learn social habits early, and establishing boundaries and consequences early on can help minimize potential conflict.
12. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Despite their playful nature, Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a strong prey drive (their original purpose was hunting), and they may chase smaller animals. Cautious introductions, methodical training, and direct supervision are essential for bringing about harmonious living with cats.
While some of these breeds can learn to tolerate cats that aren’t feral (with early socialization), their instincts often make sharing a space difficult. These breeds can successfully live with other animals given proper training, supervision, and a great deal of patience.
