When bringing a new dog into a household with other pets, choosing a breed known for its good-natured temperament and sociability is crucial. Certain breeds are more predisposed to get along with other animals, whether they’re dogs, cats, or smaller pets. Here are 15 dog breeds that are known for their ability to coexist peacefully and even bond with other pets.
1. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are well-loved for their friendly and tolerant nature. They are known to get along well with other dogs and pets due to their gentle disposition. Their sociability and eagerness to please make them ideal companions in a multi-pet household.
2. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are another breed known for their amiable and outgoing nature. Labs are often very accepting of other animals and can easily adapt to living with other pets. Their playful and friendly personality makes them great companions for both humans and other animals.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their affectionate and gentle demeanor. They usually get along well with other dogs and can coexist peacefully with cats when introduced properly. Their adaptable nature makes them suitable for households with multiple pets.
4. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are small dogs with a friendly and cheerful disposition. They typically enjoy the company of other dogs and can get along well with cats. Their playful nature often leads them to seek companionship with other pets.
5. Boxer
Boxers are known for their energetic and playful temperament. They are generally good with other dogs and can be trained to live harmoniously with other pets. Boxers are social dogs that often welcome interaction with other animals.
6. Poodle
Poodles of all sizes (standard, miniature, and toy) are known for their intelligence and sociable nature. They are typically good with other dogs and can adapt to living with cats when introduced properly. Poodles are often eager to please and can be trained to respect other pets in the household.
7. Beagle
Beagles are friendly and outgoing dogs that generally get along well with other animals. Their social nature and pack mentality make them good companions for other dogs, and they can also live peacefully with cats if introduced properly.
8. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They are typically good with other pets and can be a great addition to a household with multiple animals. Their friendly demeanor often leads to harmonious relationships with other pets.
9. Collie
Collies are known for their loyalty and friendly temperament. They are often good with other dogs and can be trained to live peacefully with cats and other animals. Collies are family-oriented and usually enjoy the company of other pets.
10. Brittany
Brittanys are energetic and sociable dogs that typically get along well with other pets. They enjoy being part of a pack and can adapt easily to living with other dogs. With proper introduction, they can also coexist well with cats.
11. Papillon
Papillons are small but confident dogs that usually get along well with other pets. They are sociable and adaptable, often enjoying the company of other dogs, and can live peacefully with cats when properly introduced.
12. Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs are known for their intelligence and friendly nature. They usually get along well with other dogs and are known to be gentle with smaller pets. Shelties are social dogs that enjoy being part of a family, including one with multiple pets.
13. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are sociable and outgoing dogs. They typically get along well with other dogs and can adapt to living with cats, especially when raised together. Corgis are known for their friendly and playful nature.
14. Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are gentle and affectionate dogs that usually get along well with other pets. They are sensitive and peaceful, making them suitable companions for other animals in the household, including cats.
15. Maltese
Maltese dogs are affectionate and often get along well with other pets. They are gentle and can be great companions for other gentle dogs or cats. Their loving nature makes them suitable for a household with multiple pets.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Dog Breeds for Getting Along with Other Pets
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What dog breeds are known to be the most friendly with other animals?
Breeds like Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Beagles, and Poodles are widely recognized for their sociable nature. These dogs tend to be more tolerant, patient, and eager to please, making them great companions for homes with other pets. -
Are small dog breeds better suited for homes with cats or other small pets?
Not necessarily. While size may seem like a factor, temperament is more important. Breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Maltese are gentle and get along well with other pets, including cats. However, some small breeds, such as terriers, may have a high prey drive and may not be the best choice. -
Do certain breeds require socialization from a young age to coexist peacefully with other pets?
Yes, all dogs benefit from early and consistent socialization, but this is especially important for breeds with strong guarding or hunting instincts, such as German Shepherds or Huskies. Exposing them early to other pets helps foster a peaceful environment. -
Can herding breeds like Collies or Australian Shepherds live peacefully with other animals?
Generally, yes. While herding breeds are intelligent and loyal, they may instinctively try to “herd” smaller pets. With proper training and supervision, they can learn to live harmoniously with other animals in the household. -
Are there dog breeds that are generally not recommended for multi-pet households?
Yes, some breeds like the Akita, Shiba Inu, or some terriers may be more prone to dominance or prey-driven behaviors. However, each dog is unique, and with proper training, even challenging breeds can sometimes adapt to multi-pet homes. -
What should I look for in a dog if I already have a cat at home?
Look for breeds known for their calm demeanor and low prey drive. Breeds like Basset Hounds, Papillons, or even Boxers (with training) can adapt well to feline companions. A dog’s history with cats and their behavior during supervised introductions are also key factors. -
Do mixed-breed dogs get along with other pets as well as purebred dogs?
Absolutely. Mixed breeds can be just as loving and sociable as purebreds. It’s important to evaluate each dog’s individual temperament, history, and energy level rather than relying solely on breed characteristics.
Conclusion
These 15 dog breeds are known for their ability to get along with other pets, making them ideal choices for multi-pet households. Their sociable and adaptable natures are key to creating a harmonious home environment. Proper introduction and socialization are crucial, regardless of the breed, to ensure peaceful coexistence among all pets.
Related: 10 Noisiest & Most Vocal Dog Breeds