Dogs and cats may seem like complete opposites, but some breeds blur the lines between the two.
Certain dogs display the quiet independence of cats, while some cats have the loyalty and playfulness usually seen in dogs.
These surprising similarities make for fascinating companions that defy expectations.
Whether you prefer a dog that lounges in sunbeams or a cat that greets you at the door, these breeds might change the way you see the classic “cat person versus dog person” divide.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from online sources.
Always research each breed’s temperament before adoption, and consult a qualified veterinarian or trainer for care advice.
Photos are for illustrative purposes only.
Dog Breeds That Act Like Cats
Some dogs don’t fit the usual image of a loyal shadow following you from room to room.
Instead, they value quiet moments, enjoy perching in high places, and prefer affection on their terms, much like a feline roommate.
These breeds tend to be graceful, independent, and surprisingly calm, making them ideal for people who love cats but want a dog’s company.
1. Basenji
Originating from Central Africa, the Basenji earns its reputation as the barkless dog.
This breed grooms itself meticulously, licking its paws and body just like a feline would after dinner.
Independent thinking defines this dog’s personality. Basenjis often choose when they want affection rather than constantly seeking your attention.
They climb furniture with ease and enjoy perching on high spots to survey their domain.
Their aloof demeanour around strangers mirrors typical cat behaviour.
Basenjis form strong bonds with their families but maintain a dignified distance from unfamiliar people, making them selective about who receives their trust and companionship.
2. Shiba Inu
This Japanese breed carries itself with unmistakable confidence and self-reliance.
Shiba Inus clean themselves regularly, spending considerable time maintaining their plush coats without human intervention.
Stubbornness comes naturally to these dogs.
They prefer making their own decisions about when to play, eat, or cuddle.
Training requires patience because Shibas evaluate whether commands benefit them before obeying.
Their quiet nature surprises many first-time owners. Rather than barking excessively,
Shibas communicate through subtle body language and occasional vocalizations.
They appreciate personal space and won’t tolerate rough handling, displaying boundaries similar to most cats.
3. Greyhound
Speed defines their racing heritage, but laziness characterizes their home life.
Greyhounds spend up to 18 hours daily sleeping or resting, rivalling even the most dedicated cat nappers.
These elegant dogs seek out soft surfaces and warm spots.
They’ll claim your favourite chair or sofa without hesitation.
Their calm temperament means they rarely demand constant entertainment or interaction from their owners.
Sensitivity marks their emotional landscape. Greyhounds dislike harsh corrections and prefer gentle guidance.
They form quiet attachments to their families but maintain an independent streak that allows them comfortable alone time without anxiety.
4. Chow Chow
Ancient China gave us this lion-maned breed with a famously reserved personality.
Chow Chows choose one or two favourite people and remain politely distant from everyone else, including family members.
Their grooming routine includes frequent self-cleaning.
These dogs dislike getting dirty and will carefully pick their way around puddles and mud.
Stubbornness during training sessions tests even experienced owners’ patience.
Affection happens on their terms exclusively.
Chow Chows tolerate petting when they’re in the mood but walk away when they’ve had enough.
This boundary-setting behaviour perfectly mirrors feline independence and selective sociability.
5. Afghan Hound
Elegance flows from every movement this breed makes.
Afghan Hounds carry themselves with regal bearing, often appearing too dignified for common dog activities like fetching balls or rolling in grass.
Independence runs deep in their character. These dogs think for themselves and question commands that seem pointless.
Training requires creativity because traditional methods often fail to motivate them.
Their grooming needs are extensive, yet they maintain cleanliness between brushings.
Afghan Hounds avoid messy situations and prefer keeping their luxurious coats pristine.
They display reserved affection, offering companionship without the typical canine eagerness to please everyone constantly.
6. Shih Tzu
Bred as palace companions in ancient China, Shih Tzus expect royal treatment.
These small dogs prefer soft cushions over outdoor adventures and spend hours grooming their flowing coats.
Climbing abilities surprise many owners. Shih Tzus scale furniture to find the highest, most comfortable perch available.
They observe household activities from elevated positions, surveying their kingdom like miniature lions.
Selective sociability defines their interactions.
While affectionate with family, Shih Tzus approach strangers cautiously.
They enjoy attention but won’t beg for it, maintaining dignity even when seeking cuddles.
Their calm demeanour indoors makes them ideal apartment companions.
7. Scottish Terrier
Confidence radiates from these compact terriers despite their small stature.
Scottish Terriers make independent decisions and rarely seek approval before acting, displaying self-assurance that matches any cat.
Their grooming habits include regular self-cleaning sessions.
Scotties dislike being dirty and will clean their paws after walks. Reserved with strangers, they assess newcomers carefully before deciding whether to engage.
Stubbornness challenges trainers regularly.
These dogs evaluate commands critically and comply only when they see personal benefit.
They form loyal bonds with their families but maintain emotional independence, never appearing needy or desperate for constant attention and validation.
8. Borzoi
Russian nobility treasured these sighthounds for their grace and hunting prowess.
Borzois display quiet dignity in modern homes, preferring peaceful environments over chaotic households.
Their independent nature means they enjoy solitude.
These dogs don’t constantly follow owners from room to room. Instead, they choose comfortable spots and rest contentedly alone for hours.
Sensitivity characterizes their temperament. Borzois respond poorly to harsh training methods and prefer gentle guidance.
They offer affection sparingly, making their attention feel earned rather than freely given.
Their calm presence and minimal barking create a serene atmosphere similar to living with cats.
Cat Breeds That Behave Like Dogs
Then there are cats that flip the script completely.
They’ll play fetch, follow you from room to room, and even greet guests at the door with cheerful curiosity.
These outgoing breeds thrive on social interaction and affection, often showing a level of devotion that rivals man’s best friend.
For anyone torn between a cat or a dog, these cats bring the best of both worlds.
1. Maine Coon
Size alone sets Maine Coons apart from typical house cats.
These gentle giants follow their owners throughout the house, displaying loyalty usually associated with dogs rather than independent felines.
Their playful nature extends well into adulthood.
Maine Coons enjoy fetch games and learning tricks.
They respond to their names consistently and come when called, behaviours that surprise people expecting typical cat aloofness.
Social butterflies in the cat world, Maine Coons greet visitors warmly.
They vocalize frequently with chirps and trills, maintaining conversations with family members.
Their friendly disposition and desire for companionship make them feel more canine than feline.
2. Ragdoll
Named for their tendency to go limp when picked up, Ragdolls seek human contact constantly.
These cats follow their owners everywhere, waiting patiently outside bathrooms and greeting them at doors.
Their docile temperament allows handling that most cats wouldn’t tolerate.
Ragdolls enjoy being carried around and cuddled for extended periods.
They rarely use their claws defensively, preferring peaceful interactions.
Trust comes easily to this breed.
Ragdolls approach strangers without hesitation, making them poor guard cats but excellent companions.
Their need for companionship means they dislike being left alone for long periods, displaying separation concerns more typical of dogs.
3. Abyssinian
Energy defines every moment of an Abyssinian’s day.
These cats race through houses, play fetch enthusiastically, and investigate every sound or movement with boundless curiosity.
Their social nature demands interaction.
Abyssinians dislike being ignored and will insert themselves into any activity.
They follow family members constantly, participating in household tasks with helpful enthusiasm.
Intelligence makes training possible.
These cats learn commands, walk on leashes, and solve puzzle toys quickly.
Their extroverted personality and constant need for engagement mirror high-energy dog breeds.
Abyssinians thrive in active households where they receive plenty of attention and mental stimulation daily.
4. Burmese
Velcro cats perfectly describes Burmese personalities.
These felines stick to their favourite people, seeking physical contact throughout the day and night without respite.
Their vocal nature keeps households lively. Burmese cats communicate constantly, sharing opinions about meals, activities, and perceived injustices.
They demand attention through persistent meowing until acknowledged.
Playfulness continues throughout their lives.
Adult Burmese chase toys, learn tricks, and engage in interactive games with enthusiasm.
Their people-oriented focus and desire to please their owners creates bonds stronger than typical cat-human relationships.
They genuinely miss their families when separated.
5. Turkish Angora
Mischief and intelligence combine dangerously in this ancient breed.
Turkish Angoras open doors, turn on faucets, and solve problems that stump other cats through determination and clever thinking.
Their social needs exceed typical feline standards.
These cats initiate play sessions, bring toys to owners, and insist on participation in family activities.
They learn their names quickly and respond reliably when called.
Water fascination sets them apart. Many Turkish Angoras play in sinks, join showers, and swim willingly.
Their outgoing personality and trainability make them seem more like small dogs than traditional cats.
They adapt well to leash walking and car travel.
6. Siamese
Conversations fill homes with Siamese cats.
These vocal felines express opinions loudly and frequently, maintaining running commentary about everything from meal timing to household visitors.
Their attachment to people borders on obsessive.
Siamese cats shadow their favourite humans relentlessly, demanding constant interaction and attention.
They dislike closed doors and protest loudly when excluded from activities.
Intelligence allows complex training.
Siamese cats walk on leashes, learn tricks, and even play games requiring strategy.
Their extroverted personality and need for companionship make them feel more canine than feline.
They genuinely suffer from loneliness when left alone regularly.
