Lisa O
Many people think cats and dogs always fight, but that’s not true. Actually, they can be great pals and live happily together. However, some dog types might not be the best buddies for cats. Why? Well, it’s about their natural instincts. So here’s a list of the worst dog breeds for cats. Keep them in mind if you’re thinking of adding a furry friend to your family!
Australian Cattle Dog
Meet the Australian Cattle Dog – a speedy, energetic, medium-sized dog with strong muscles. This gorgeous breed is known for its herding skills, so don’t be surprised if it tries to round up your other pets. While this herding behavior can be a bit disruptive and create tension, the Australian Cattle Dog is generally not aggressive, especially if it’s well-socialized.
Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are full of energy, intelligence, and a touch of stubbornness. While their playful nature might lead them to chase your cat, their strong-willed personality can make it tough to train them otherwise. Huskies have a knack for finding their way out of any enclosure, so your cat’s safety and that of the neighborhood kitties might be at risk.
American Pit Bull Terrier
American Pit Bull Terriers are a bundle of strength, confidence, and love, making them quite the crowd favorite! With their sleek coats flaunting various colors and patterns, they’re as stunning as they are spirited. But here’s the thing: their fiery nature might lead them to chase after cats, even if it’s all in good fun. While early socialization helps, it’s like a tug-of-war game – sometimes, that chasing instinct just can’t be fully tamed.
Scottish Deerhound
Let’s talk about the Scottish Deerhound – a dog originally used for hunting deer. No surprises here – these dogs have a real knack for chasing things! They might go after cats and small animals, not meaning any harm but just following their instincts. Starting the socializing process early can lower the chance of accidents, but let’s be honest – your cat probably won’t find the chase too enjoyable.
Greyhound
Greyhounds are famous for their slim, athletic build and incredible speed. They’re sweet and gentle, full of love to share. But here’s the thing – that love might not extend to your family cat. Greyhounds are part of the hunting dog crew, and when they spot something to chase, they go all out. If you’ve ever seen them race, you know just how lightning-fast they can be. Your poor kitty wouldn’t stand a chance!
Samoyed
Samoyed are known for being fluffy, cute, and super friendly. But underneath all that fluffiness lies a heritage of hardworking Siberian dogs. These pups have a long history, one of the oldest purebred lineages around. They’ve got some strong instincts, like chasing prey and herding. So, while your Samoyed may be the sweetest thing, there’s always a chance those instincts kick in around your cat.
Schnauzer
Schnauzer is super affectionate but sometimes a bit on edge, and they’re not shy about speaking up with their barks. While they excel as watchdogs, they’ve also got a hobby: chasing small critters in the yard. Those rabbits and squirrels usually dodge their pursuit, but it can put some serious stress on your house cat. Even with early socializing, that urge to chase isn’t likely to disappear.
Bedlington Terrier
Meet Bedlington Terriers – they’re super alert, making them top-notch watchdogs. However, that keen watchfulness doesn’t leave much room for intruders like cats. Even though they might not want to hurt them, Bedlington Terriers tend to chase away these little critters. Not just that, they can get a bit barky and even show some aggression towards dogs of the same sex.
Weimaraner
The Weimaraners are big, sleek hunting dogs known for their speed. With their hunting instincts, they’re always on the lookout for small critters like squirrels and rabbits in your yard. And let us tell you, they have quite a successful track record! They’re likely to chase after your cat, too, but with some early socialization, you can totally minimize this risk.
Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers are bursting with energy and were once the go-to choice for fox hunting. They’re fearless, independent, and super determined, especially when it comes to tracking down prey. Many people keep them around to help sniff out pesky critters like moles, squirrels, and rats. Now, here’s the thing: cats can do the same job. So, having both a Jack Russell and a cat together might not be the best idea.
Whippet
Whippets are like mini versions of Greyhounds, with slim, athletic bodies and a sleek tail. They’re super gentle, but their independent streak makes training a challenge. Indoors, they usually stay calm and aren’t big on barking. However, once they step outside, get ready for bursts of energy! They’re fantastic jumpers and have a thing for chasing anything in sight.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu is another small breed that can sneak into many of a cat’s favorite hiding spots, making this breed a bigger threat than you might realize. But unlike the breeds we’ve discussed, jealousy is the main reason for aggression in Shih Tzus. These pups crave attention and might not be too thrilled about you showing affection to a cat.
Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are fantastic family dogs and some of the tallest pups around. Honestly, they’re just big sweethearts who want to be pals with everyone, and that often includes cats. But here’s the thing: they’re also part of the sighthound family, just like Greyhounds. That means they’ve got a strong urge to chase after prey, and unfortunately, your kitten might become their target.
Manchester Terrier
The Manchester Terriers are ratting dogs, which means they’re experts at chasing and catching small animals. Given their natural inclination, it’s no surprise they’re not the best match for cats. Even with plenty of early supervision, ensuring your cats’ safety might be a challenge. Plus, you’ll need a sturdy fence to keep unwanted animals out of your yard, or your Manchester Terrier might catch them, too.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers are another small breed that might not see eye-to-eye with your cat, though the damage they cause could be more mental than physical. Similar to Shih Tzus, Yorkies aren’t big fans of sharing their owner’s affection with other animals. While they’re usually fine with other people showing love to their owners, cats are a whole different ball game.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are super friendly and gentle, but they can also be a bit overprotective and territorial. Their strong instinct to guard their owners and stuff might not make them the best companions for cats. And let’s remember, they’re pretty huge, which can be quite intimidating and hard to ignore for a smaller, less confident cat. They also bark a lot, which might be overwhelming for a cat.
Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds – if there’s a breed that could be the archenemy to cats, it’s them. Despite their elegant long hair, these hounds are born hunters skilled at catching rabbits, wolves, and even snow leopards! A regular house cat doesn’t stand much of a chance. It’s not about frustration; it’s about the thrill of the chase and hunt for Afghan Hounds. They’ll actively seek out your cat just for the joy of the pursuit.
Pharaoh Hound
These incredibly loyal hounds have a history dating back thousands of years, serving as hunting dogs even during the time of ancient Egyptian pharaohs. While they may be pretty obedient to commands, breaking away from millennia of natural instincts proves to be quite a challenge. Their unusually high prey drive doesn’t make them the best fit for households with cats.
Schipperke
Meet Schipperke – they may be small in size, but they’ve got a big personality packed into that fluffy coat! While they can get along with your other house pets, their mischievous nature might ramp up the stress levels for your cats. They love to chase and bark at yard animals, although their pint-sized stature means they’re not much of a threat.
Smooth Fox Terrier
Initially, these pups were the farmers’ right-hand companions, helping clear out vermin like rats, burrowing creatures, and even foxes from underground dens. While they’ve transitioned to simpler lives playing with their families, the thrill of the hunt still runs in their veins. That means, given the opportunity, they’ll gladly chase after your cat.