21 Cat Breeds That Act More Like Dogs Than Felines
Cats are often seen as independent and aloof, but not all felines fit this stereotype. Some breeds display behaviors that are surprisingly canine-like!
From fetching toys to greeting their owners at the door, these cats blur the line between cat and dog characteristics. If you’ve ever wanted the best of both worlds, these cat breeds might just be your ideal furry friend. Let’s explore these amazing breeds that bring a little dog spirit into the feline world.
1. Abyssinian
The Abyssinian cat is known for its energetic and playful nature. This breed loves to explore and is incredibly curious about its surroundings.
Often compared to the athletic prowess of a dog, the Abyssinian enjoys interactive play and thrives with activities that challenge its agile body and keen mind.
These cats are social butterflies, not shying away from strangers and usually being the first to greet visitors at the door.
2. Siberian
Siberian cats are renowned for their dog-like loyalty and playful demeanor. This breed is not only affectionate with its human companions but also enjoys engaging activities such as fetch.
Despite their large and fluffy appearance, Siberians are quite agile and love to jump and climb. They form strong bonds with their families, often following them around the house like a little shadow.
Their gentle nature makes them fantastic companions for families, including those with children or other pets.
3. Burmese
Burmese cats are often described as ‘velcro cats’ because of their tendency to stick close to their humans. They are highly sociable and thrive on human interaction, much like a dog.
These cats have a playful spirit and enjoy games that involve their owners, making them a favorite among families seeking a pet that engages with every member.
Their curious nature and loyalty make Burmese cats an excellent choice for those who want a cat that acts more like a canine companion.
4. Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is often referred to as the ‘gentle giant’ of the cat world. Known for their large size and even larger personalities, these cats are friendly, social, and love being part of the family.
They are particularly good with children and other pets, displaying a patience and understanding that is often characteristic of dogs.
With their playful nature and inclination to follow their owners around the house, Maine Coons are a fantastic choice for those who appreciate the companionship of a dog but prefer the grace of a feline.
5. Ragdoll
Ragdolls are famous for their calm and placid demeanor, as well as their inclination to go limp when held, resembling a ragdoll, hence their name.
These cats are often described as ‘puppy-like’ because of their tendency to follow their owners from room to room and greet them at the door.
Their gentle and affectionate nature makes them ideal companions for families, and they often enjoy being cuddled and carried around, much like a pampered pooch.
6. Manx
Manx cats, known for their unique tailless appearance, are also recognized for their playful and friendly personalities.
They are highly social and enjoy engaging with their human companions, often initiating games and playtime. Like dogs, Manx cats can be taught tricks and enjoy interactive activities that stimulate their minds.
Their loyal and affectionate nature makes them excellent pets for those seeking a cat with dog-like qualities.
7. Bengal
Bengal cats are known for their wild appearance and lively personalities. These athletic felines are always on the move, much like a hyperactive puppy.
They enjoy exploring their environment, climbing, and playing with a level of energy that’s hard to match. Bengals love interactive playtime, making them a perfect choice for families who enjoy engaging with their pet.
Despite their energetic nature, Bengals form strong bonds with their owners, often following them around the house and seeking attention just like a loyal dog would.
8. Cornish Rex
The Cornish Rex is a unique breed with its signature wavy coat and slender frame. Known for their playful and affectionate nature, these cats are often compared to dogs in their social behavior.
They thrive on interaction with their owners and enjoy participating in family activities. Cornish Rex cats are also known for their high energy levels and love of play, making them a lively addition to any household.
Their playful antics and love for attention ensure they are always at the heart of the family, much like a beloved canine companion.
9. Sphynx
The Sphynx cat, with its distinctive hairless appearance, is known for being exceptionally affectionate and social. These cats crave attention from their human companions and are known to follow their owners everywhere, just like a dog.
Their need for warmth and affection makes them the ultimate lap cats, always seeking out snuggles and cuddles. Sphynx cats are also quite playful and enjoy interactive toys and games.
Their loving nature and desire for constant companionship make them a perfect choice for those looking for a pet with dog-like devotion.
10. Turkish Van
Turkish Van cats are famously known as ‘the swimming cats’ due to their love of water, a trait not commonly associated with felines.
These adventurous cats enjoy a good splash and can often be found playing in and around water, much like a water-loving dog. Their playful and energetic nature makes them a lively presence in any household.
Aside from their aquatic antics, Turkish Vans are affectionate and form strong bonds with their human companions, often following them around the house or joining them in activities.
11. Tonkinese
Tonkinese cats are a delightful blend of Siamese and Burmese breeds, known for their outgoing and friendly personalities. These cats thrive in social settings and are often compared to dogs for their loyalty and love of interaction.
Tonkinese cats are playful and intelligent, enjoying games and activities that engage their curious minds. They are also known to be quite vocal, always ready to chat with their human companions.
With their affectionate demeanor and love for companionship, Tonkinese cats make wonderful pets for families seeking a feline friend with a touch of canine charm.
12. Savannah
Savannah cats are the epitome of wild elegance, known for their striking appearance and adventurous spirit. This breed is highly active and enjoys exploring its environment with the enthusiasm of a curious puppy.
Savannahs are known for their friendly demeanor and strong attachment to their human families. They often enjoy playing fetch and can be walked on a leash, much like a dog.
Their adventurous nature and love for interaction make Savannah cats an exciting addition to any household, blending the grace of a cat with the playfulness of a dog.
13. Burmilla
Burmilla cats are a stunning breed known for their beautiful silver coats and charming personalities. These cats are playful and affectionate, often seeking out interaction with their human companions.
Burmillas are known to form strong bonds with their families, displaying a loyalty and attachment typically seen in dogs. Their gentle nature makes them ideal pets for families with children or other animals.
With their love for play and social interaction, Burmilla cats bring a delightful blend of elegance and dog-like friendliness to any home.
14. Selkirk Rex
The Selkirk Rex is a unique breed, easily identifiable by its curly coat and charming demeanor. These cats are not only visually distinct but also known for their playful and affectionate nature.
Much like a dog, Selkirk Rex cats enjoy being in the company of their human families and are always eager to participate in games and activities. Their relaxed attitude and love for attention make them a beloved member of any family.
With their curly fur and friendly nature, Selkirk Rex cats offer a delightful mix of feline grace and canine companionship.
15. Oriental Shorthair
Oriental Shorthair cats are known for their sleek appearance and large, expressive ears. Beyond their striking looks, these cats are highly social and thrive on interaction with their owners.
Orientals are often compared to dogs for their playful antics and tendency to follow their human companions around. They enjoy engaging in games and activities that challenge their agile bodies and curious minds.
With their outgoing personalities and love for companionship, Oriental Shorthair cats are a fantastic choice for those who appreciate a pet that combines the best of feline and canine characteristics.
16. Bombay
Bombay cats are often described as ‘mini-panthers’ due to their sleek, black coats and striking golden eyes. Beyond their exotic appearance, these cats are known for their playful and affectionate personalities.
Bombays enjoy interacting with their human companions and often seek out attention and playful engagement. Their social nature and love for games make them a wonderful addition to any household.
With their striking looks and dog-like friendliness, Bombay cats bring a touch of the wild with the warmth of a loyal friend.
17. American Bobtail
American Bobtail cats are known for their distinctive short tails and playful personalities. These cats are highly social and enjoy spending time with their human families.
Bobtails are intelligent and can often be trained to play fetch or walk on a leash, similar to dogs. Their adventurous nature and love for interaction make them exciting companions.
With their unique appearance and friendly demeanor, American Bobtail cats offer a delightful blend of feline independence and canine companionship.
18. Cymric
The Cymric cat, a long-haired version of the Manx, is known for its playful and affectionate nature. These cats enjoy social interaction and form strong bonds with their human families.
Cymrics are often compared to dogs for their tendency to follow their owners around and participate in family activities. Their playful behavior and gentle nature make them an ideal choice for families with children.
With their fluffy appearance and loving personality, Cymric cats bring a touch of dog-like devotion to the feline world.
19. Chartreux
Chartreux cats are known for their beautiful blue-grey coats and gentle dispositions. This breed is often described as dog-like due to its friendly and social nature.
Chartreux cats enjoy spending time with their human companions, often following them from room to room. They are playful and enjoy games that engage their agile bodies and curious minds.
With their striking appearance and loyal personalities, Chartreux cats make wonderful pets for those seeking a feline friend with a touch of canine charm.
20. Japanese Bobtail
Japanese Bobtail cats are known for their distinctive short tails and lively personalities. These cats are highly social and enjoy interacting with their human companions.
Japanese Bobtails are playful and often participate in family activities, much like a loyal dog. They are intelligent and can be trained to perform tricks or play games.
With their unique appearance and friendly demeanor, Japanese Bobtail cats bring a delightful mix of feline grace and canine companionship to any household.
21. LaPerm
LaPerm cats are easily recognizable by their curly coats and affectionate personalities. This breed is known for its playful and social nature, often forming strong bonds with its human companions.
LaPerms are curious and enjoy exploring their environment, much like a curious puppy. Their love for play and interaction makes them a beloved member of any family.
With their unique appearance and dog-like friendliness, LaPerm cats offer a delightful blend of feline grace and canine companionship.