People often think you’re either a dog or cat lover, but that may not be true anymore. A study from Oregon State University found that cats can form strong bonds with their humans, just like dogs and children. 64.3% of cats showed secure attachment, compared to 58% of dogs.
Research also shows that over 40% of cats play fetch, which is usually a dog behavior. If you love a dog’s playful and loyal nature, some cat breeds give you both, but prefer a cat’s independence. Here are seven cat breeds that act just like dogs.
2. Maine Coon
Maine Coons are often called “dog-like” not just due to their massive size-making them the largest domestic cat breed-but also due to their extremely loyal disposition. These magnificent cats will attach themselves firmly to their owners, shadowing them around the house and even standing by the door waiting for their return.
Due to their extreme intelligence, they are easily trainable, with many learning commands and walking on a leash. Unlike most other cats, Maine Coons enjoy water, so bath time is less traumatic. Their physical and mental stimulation requirements are the same as those of many of their canine friends and need to be fulfilled with interactive play to keep them engaged.
3. Abyssinian
Abyssinians are the cat version of the never-ending motion machine, with boundless energy levels that rival the most energetic of dogs. These super-savvy felines require attention and tend to get depressed when alone too frequently, a quirk that veterinarians have labeled as a “dog-like attachment to owners.
Abyssinians do well with training, making them one of the easiest cat breeds to train. Their curious nature leads them to follow humans everywhere they go, invading their shoulders to maintain as high an observation point as possible.
4. Burmese
The Burmese is the social butterfly of the cat world and displays levels of loyalty and attachment found with canine friends. These cats adore life in family situations, not clinging to an individual but scattering their affection throughout the household members. Their strong intelligence and imitative natures make leash training a possible trait few expect from cats.
Burmese cats are also much more verbal than most other breeds, with veterinarians commenting that they “enjoy having a conversation” with their owners. Their energetic temperament promotes interactive play, and their acceptance of children and guests makes them exceedingly dog-like in social adjustability.
5. Siamese
Siamese cats embody the phrase “dog-like cat” with their extremely social and watchful personality. These chatty companions trail their owners reliably, forming what professionals term a relationship more similar to that with a dog than with an ordinary cat.
The Siamese’s inquisitiveness makes them very trainable and eager to learn new tricks or abilities. They tend to stay close to their owners and sleep in bed at night, something not commonly observed in more reserved feline breeds. Their desire to join in all family activities and their tendency to greet guests demonstrate their social, dog-like nature.
6. Bengal
Bengals dispel the myth of most felines being afraid of water, displaying an unusual affinity for water that directly correlates to their Asian leopard cat ancestry. This crossbreed’s water-repellent coat contributes to their comfort during water activities, whether playing in sinks or going with their masters to the shower.
Bengals are simple to train due to their high intelligence and curiosity, making them quick learners of commands and tricks. Like most dogs, they have an extremely high energy level that necessitates continuous physical and mental stimulation. You can generally train Bengals to walk on leashes, as they are a highly athletic cat breed.
7. Ragdoll
Naturally named “puppy cats,” Ragdolls possess a unique trait that earned them their name—going completely limp and loose when lifted, much like picking up a toy belonging to a child. This breed’s gentle nature and flexibility make it perfect for travelers and families.
While most aloof cats tolerate human interaction, Ragdolls actively seek human companionship, meeting owners at the door, following them around the house from room to room, and generally preferring to be wherever their humans are.
Their affectionate, warm nature extends to being picked up and carried, behaviors many cats only tolerate, but Ragdolls actively love.
8. Manx
The dog-like character of the Manx is readily apparent in how well they obey commands, usually coming when called by their name or when the owners whistle, an action that regular cats seldom show. These tailless animals display the uncommon trait of congregating and covering toys, reminiscent of retrieving instincts in certain dogs.
Their loving and protective natures have gotten them labeled “watchcats,” with some also growling and attacking when faced with unfamiliar situations. Dr. David Taylor of the International Zoo Veterinary Group deems them “positively dog-like” in behavior and response towards owners.
9. Fetching
A recent study from Purdue University dispelled the common thought that fetch is a singular canine game and found that an impressive 40.9% of cats engage in fetching behavior compared to 77.8% of dogs.
The research, based on over 8,000 cat owners’ responses, determined that some breeds are much more likely to fetch, with Siamese, Burmese, and Tonkinese cats leading the pack. Male, indoor-only, and healthier cats all demonstrated a higher probability of fetching. Surprisingly, cats who lived with dogs were less likely to exhibit this behavior, perhaps as a result of competition or intimidation from their dog housemates.
Choosing Your Perfect Canine-Feline Hybrid Companion
Some cat breeds show dog-like traits, making them ideal for people torn between choosing a cat or dog or those who can’t keep dogs due to space, allergies, or busy schedules.
When choosing a cat, think about the traits you value most—like the Maine Coon’s loyalty, the Bengal’s love of water, or the Siamese’s talkative nature. Every cat is unique, so spend time with one before adopting.
These seven special breeds offer the affection, trainability, and social nature of dogs, along with the independence and low maintenance that make cats such beloved pets worldwide.
