17 Dog Breeds That Are Instant Besties with Other Pets
They say dogs are man’s best friend—but what if you’ve already got a house full of furry companions?
Whether you’re the proud parent of a snoozing tabby, a jittery hamster, or another canine, bringing a new dog into the mix can feel like a social experiment waiting to go sideways.
Not every pup is born with the diplomatic skills of a seasoned peacekeeper. That’s why it’s crucial to choose a breed known for playing well with others—four-legged or otherwise.
Some dogs are natural-born extroverts who thrive in multi-pet households. These friendly breeds can turn a chaotic zoo into a cozy family gathering.
From gentle giants who tiptoe around tiny kittens to peppy little pups who just want to be everyone’s best friend, certain breeds make cohabitation feel effortless.
hey understand boundaries, communicate well with body language, and—most importantly—aren’t overly territorial. Their social intelligence makes life easier for everyone involved.
Of course, every dog is unique, and early socialization is key no matter the breed. But if you want a head start, looking into naturally pet-friendly breeds is a smart move.
It’s like picking a roommate who already knows how to share the remote and clean up after themselves.
In this article, we’ve rounded up 17 dog breeds that are famous for instantly making friends with other pets.
Whether you’ve got a clingy cat, a sassy parrot, or a skittish bunny, these dogs know how to approach with charm and patience. They’re the golden retrievers of the dog world—sometimes literally.
So if your household is starting to feel more like a petting zoo than a quiet sanctuary, don’t worry. The right dog can bring harmony, joy, and just the right amount of slobber.
Let’s meet the breeds that make that magic happen.
1. Golden Retriever
You’d be hard-pressed to find a breed more universally loved by both humans and animals. Golden Retrievers have a natural knack for making friends, whether it’s with a kitten, a bird, or even a fellow dog that’s a bit on the shy side.
They’re affectionate without being pushy and gentle without losing their playful spirit. This makes them ideal companions in multi-pet households, where social balance is key.
What’s more, their eager-to-please attitude means they’re usually the first to extend the paw of friendship. Goldens can adapt to just about any social dynamic with a smile and a wag.
They’re basically the golden-hearted diplomats of the dog world—and yes, they’ll happily let the cat have the comfy chair.
2. Labrador Retriever
If there’s a canine version of the social butterfly, the Labrador Retriever wears that crown. Labs are outgoing, goofy, and built to bond—not just with humans, but with any animal that crosses their path.
Their energy is infectious, and they often coax more reserved pets out of their shells. But don’t let their enthusiasm fool you—Labs also know when to dial it down and give space.
Their friendliness is paired with a natural intelligence, making them easy to train in homes where harmony matters. They’ll chase a ball with your other dog or share a nap with your cat, no problem.
In a world full of pet drama, Labs are the comic relief and the peacemakers rolled into one.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Small in size but huge in heart, this breed knows how to win over just about anyone. With their soft expressions and calm energy, Cavaliers often blend seamlessly into homes that already have pets.
They don’t bark much, they don’t boss around, and they certainly don’t pick fights. Instead, they observe, adapt, and politely ask for friendship—usually with a tail wag and a gentle nudge.
Whether they’re snuggling with a cat or tagging along with a senior dog, Cavaliers keep the peace. They’re also super intuitive, often adjusting their energy to match their companions’.
Think of them as the polite dinner guest who compliments the chef and does the dishes afterward—your other pets will be thankful they moved in.
4. Beagle
There’s something charmingly earnest about a Beagle’s approach to friendship. As a pack animal by nature, this breed genuinely thrives on the company of others—whether that’s other dogs, cats, or even guinea pigs.
Curiosity drives much of their behavior, but it’s rarely aggressive. They sniff, investigate, and then usually settle into a friendly rhythm with whoever’s nearby.
Their gentle size helps, especially when introducing them to smaller animals. Beagles love a good cuddle pile or a playful chase—whichever their furry friends prefer.
They may follow their nose a bit too often, but when it comes to bonding, their hearts never stray.
5. Poodle (Standard or Miniature)
Known for their brains and beauty, Poodles also have exceptional emotional intelligence. They tend to sense the mood of a room—including the emotional boundaries of other pets—and adjust accordingly.
That means they rarely bulldoze into another animal’s space or act overly dominant. Instead, they come in with a calm presence that puts everyone at ease.
Whether you’ve got a moody cat or a jumpy rabbit, a well-socialized Poodle can fit in like a missing puzzle piece. Their hypoallergenic coats and low-shedding nature are just icing on the cake.
Graceful yet playful, they’re as good at reading the room as they are at learning new tricks.
6. Basset Hound
It’s hard to imagine a more laid-back roommate than the Basset Hound. With their droopy eyes and slow-moving charm, they bring an unbothered vibe to any multi-pet household.
They’re not in a rush to make friends, but they’re open to companionship if approached with kindness. Cats tend to like them because they’re not intrusive, and other dogs appreciate their chill energy.
They won’t compete for dominance or attention, and their calm demeanor often acts as a stabilizer in more excitable homes. Bassets prefer company to conflict and often just want a cozy spot near their pals.
They’re like that friend who always says yes to hanging out—but only if it involves snacks and a nap.
7. Collie
Few dogs have the gentle soul of a Collie. Originally bred to herd and protect, they carry that instinct into their relationships with other animals—only now it’s more nurturing than bossy.
They’ll often keep an eye on smaller pets and treat them like part of their flock. That makes them especially good in homes with more fragile animals like rabbits or aging cats.
They don’t overwhelm or chase, and their calm intelligence makes them excellent communicators. With a little socialization, a Collie becomes the watchful big sibling every other pet feels safe around.
Think Lassie, but less dramatic rescues and more shared nap spots.
8. Papillon
Don’t let the dainty size and butterfly ears fool you—Papillons are full of personality and social savvy. These little dogs are confident, curious, and unusually tolerant for their size.
Instead of being yappy or territorial, they tend to be observers first, slowly warming up with gentle tail wags and playful nudges. Their confidence helps them engage with larger animals without becoming reactive.
Papillons can be wonderful playmates for cats, ferrets, or even gentle larger dogs. And thanks to their small frame, they rarely pose a threat to smaller animals.
They might be tiny, but their social game is mighty.
9. Bernese Mountain Dog
Here’s your gentle giant with a teddy bear soul. Bernese Mountain Dogs may be big, but they’re known for their sweet, sensitive personalities and remarkable patience.
They often treat smaller animals with surprising gentleness—like they know their size could be intimidating and go out of their way to be careful. Berners are slow to anger and quick to offer companionship.
With proper training and early exposure, they’ll cuddle next to cats, trot alongside toy breeds, or simply hang out without causing stress. Their mellow nature makes them one of the least reactive large breeds.
They’re basically the oversized emotional support friend your pets didn’t know they needed.
10. Boxer
Energy? Off the charts. But aggression? Hardly ever. Boxers are enthusiastic playmates who genuinely enjoy other animals, especially when they’ve been socialized early.
They may come in hot with excitement, but they’re not mean-spirited—they just have a zest for life that’s hard to contain. Given a bit of training, they quickly learn to read the room.
Boxers often form close bonds with other dogs and can be surprisingly tender with cats or smaller pets. Their expressive faces and clownish antics make them easy to love, even if they occasionally knock over a food bowl.
They’re the life of the party, but also the kind that makes sure everyone’s having fun.
11. Maltese
Elegance and sweetness combine in the ever-charming Maltese. Despite their royal appearance, these little dogs are gentle, affectionate, and surprisingly adaptable when it comes to living with other pets.
They’re not domineering or overly excitable, which means they tend to coexist peacefully with cats, rabbits, and fellow small breeds. Their calm temperament helps reduce tension in multi-pet households.
Because of their size, they’re rarely intimidating, and they typically respond to social cues with care. Whether snuggling with a sleepy feline or hanging back while bigger dogs play, the Maltese finds its niche.
They’re like the quiet roommate who brings good vibes and zero drama.
12. Newfoundland
Don’t be fooled by the massive frame—Newfoundlands are famously gentle and nurturing. Nicknamed “nanny dogs,” they’re known for their instinct to protect and care for those around them, animals included.
Their patience makes them ideal companions for high-strung pets, and their calm aura helps tone down the overall energy in a household. They rarely react with aggression and tend to ignore small provocations.
Give them a cat to curl up next to or a smaller dog to gently lean on, and they’ll be in heaven. It’s not just their size that makes an impression—it’s their kindness.
This is a dog that brings the body of a bear and the heart of a therapist.
13. Sheltie (Shetland Sheepdog)
Smart, sweet, and quietly observant, Shelties thrive in homes with a social dynamic. They’re sensitive dogs that pay close attention to body language, which helps them adjust to other pets quickly.
Although bred to herd, they’re far from pushy. Instead, they use their sharp minds and emotional intelligence to ease into relationships with cats, dogs, and even birds.
Their loyalty often extends to the entire pet family, and they tend to act like little guardians without becoming possessive. Shelties are happiest when they feel part of a peaceful group.
They’re like the wise introvert who always knows when to speak—and when to just listen.
14. Irish Setter
Spirited and affectionate, Irish Setters bring joyful energy without crossing into chaos. Their fun-loving nature draws other pets in, while their non-aggressive personality helps keep things calm.
They don’t usually pick fights or act possessive—instead, they just want to play and enjoy company. These dogs are ideal for households where pets appreciate a social but respectful presence.
Setters are also great at mirroring energy, meaning they can tone things down when needed. They’re as happy playing fetch with a buddy as they are lounging next to a sleepy cat.
Their charm lies in their ability to be both the entertainer and the peacekeeper.
15. Havanese
This cheerful little breed is built for companionship. Havanese are known for being gentle, playful, and eager to get along with both people and pets.
They’re outgoing without being overwhelming and rarely display aggression or jealousy. In multi-pet homes, they often act as the bridge between more aloof animals.
Cats tend to find their respectful curiosity refreshing, and other dogs enjoy their enthusiasm for games. Because they crave social connection, they’ll do best with pets who are open to bonding.
It’s like they were designed to make friends—and they never forget one.
16. Great Dane
Despite their towering height, Great Danes are surprisingly gentle creatures. They’re often referred to as “gentle giants” for a reason—their patience and soft demeanor shine in multi-pet homes.
They don’t need to dominate the room and usually move with slow, careful steps around smaller animals. Cats especially appreciate their calm presence, and smaller dogs often view them as oversized bodyguards.
Danes rarely show aggression and are incredibly loyal to their household. Their low prey drive also means they’re less likely to chase or startle other pets.
In short, they’re a whole lot of dog—with a whole lot of heart.
17. Japanese Chin
More catlike than canine in behavior, Japanese Chins tend to mesh naturally with feline roommates. They’re independent, quiet, and respectful of personal space—traits that win over even the most territorial pets.
While they enjoy affection, they’re not overly clingy, and they won’t invade another animal’s comfort zone. Their gentle curiosity and calm energy create a peaceful atmosphere.
Because they prefer to observe before interacting, they rarely spark conflict. Whether they’re lounging beside a cat on a windowsill or politely avoiding a grumpy older dog, they handle social settings with grace.
Think of them as the refined artist of the dog world—low drama, high charm.
