Dogs come in all shapes and sizes - the UK Kennel Club recognises 221 different pedigree dogs, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
Then there are all manner of crossbreeds, from so-called ‘designer dogs’ to lovable mongrels.
Each has its own list of positive and negative attributes, and it’s important to take plenty of time to think about what breed will fit into your lifestyle the best - for instance a smaller dog if you live in a flat, or a hypoallergenic dog if the mere mention of dog hair makes you think about sneezing.
There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
While society sometimes seems to be split between ‘cat people’ and ‘dog people’, there’s actually no reason you can’t be both – as long as you choose the right breed.
So, if you already have a cat and would like to add a dog to your family (or would like to have the option of getting a cat in the future) then you’re in the right place.
Here are 12 of the breeds of dog that tend to get along with cats.
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1. Papillon
An adult Papillon is around the same size as a cat, which is perhaps one reason they seem to have a natural affinity. It's a breed that likes to join in with games and doesn't really care whether their playmate is another dog, a human, a cat, or a tennis ball. | AFP via Getty Images
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Another breed of dog close to cat-sized, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can make firm friends with felines. They don't have an aggressive bone in their body but are fearless - meaning they won't be bullied their cat housemate. | AFP via Getty Images
3. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are loyal, patient, and very tolerant of other humans and animals. A combination of this breed's easy-going nature and laziness means they are more likely to cuddle up to a cat than chase one. | AFP via Getty Images
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4. Pug
Pugs are incredibly loving to pretty much anybody they meet - human or feline. They hate being left alone so a feline playmate might be just the thing to manage their separation anxiety. | AFP via Getty Images