Top 10 Cats That Act Like Dogs

How do we define dog-like cat breeds?

Cats and dogs each have their own charm, but some felines blur the line by acting like dogs. These “puppy cats” often follow their owners around, love fetch, or even swim in their own way.

In other words, they show the canine traits of loyalty, playfulness, and affection. At SnuggleSouls, we see dog-like cats as friendly companions that bond deeply with their people.

By understanding these breeds’ playful, people-oriented nature, you can engage them with walks, fetch games, or water play – activities many cats surprisingly enjoy.

Quick Glance: 10 Cats That Act Like Dogs

Each of these breeds is known for canine-like behaviors and certain care needs. In the sections below, we’ll “Meet Your Cat” with a friendly intro to each, plus a quick check: Is this cat your SnuggleSoul? We’ll share practical tips so you can bring out the best in your new furry friend.

Meet Your Cat: 10 Delightful Breeds

Each breed above tends to feel more like having a dog around. In the next section, we introduce each one in more detail and explain whether it might be your ideal companion.

Turkish Angora

Introduce

We find this breed to be highly intelligent and energetic. Turkish Angoras are very loyal – they love being involved in everything the family is doing.

You’ll notice they’re also quite vocal and playful: many owners report Angoras splashing in water to chase a toy or eagerly playing fetch with you.

These cats thrive on activity and attention, so a busy household (or an owner who likes to interact often) is perfect for them.

Is This Your SnuggleSoul?

If your ideal cat is a chatty, athletic friend who keeps up with your pace, the Turkish Angora could be a match. They enjoy games and learning tricks, so you can teach them things like fetching or coming when called.

We love seeing Angoras snuggle after play – these kitties will reward your attention with loyalty.  You’ll know you have a SnuggleSoul in an Angora if you’re looking for a playful companion that greets you at the door and enjoys being part of your daily routine.

Read more about Turkish Angora

Manx

Introduce

This tailless breed is famously affectionate and playful. We see Manx cats following their owners everywhere – they truly love company.

A Manx will happily hop onto the couch beside you or greet children and even other pets with a friendly head-bump.

Remarkably, many Manx enjoy games like fetch; you can even train them to come when you whistle their name. Their sweet, outgoing nature means they usually adapt well to families and new people.

Is This Your SnuggleSoul?

For someone who wants a cat that acts like a loyal playmate, a Manx is a great choice. This breed thrives on games and interaction, so if you regularly play with your pets or say “come” and actually see your cat obey you, that’s classic Manx behavior.

We’ve seen Manx cats eagerly waiting by the door or following their person around the house – if you want a furry pal always by your side, the Manx may be your perfect SnuggleSoul.

Read more about Manx

American Curl

Introduce

Recognizable for its curled ears, the American Curl is also extremely affectionate. Our team notes that Curls have gentle, curious personalities: they love to explore their surroundings but will always come back for attention.

They are playful and energetic, yet carry none of the typical cat “aloofness” – an American Curl will often sit in your lap and purr. They are especially patient with kids, making them terrific family pets.

Is This Your SnuggleSoul?

If a loving, lively cat fits your lifestyle, consider the American Curl. You can expect a Curl to seek out cuddles and follow you around as much as it chases toys.

We think dog lovers will appreciate how a Curl greets everyone warmly and enjoys being an active part of the family. If you have children or other pets, an American Curl’s patient and social nature will likely win your heart.

Read more about American Curl

Abyssinian

Introduce

Abyssinians are bursting with energy and affection. We describe them as the entertainers of the cat world – they love to play, climb, and even dive into a bowl of water to bat at a floating toy.

Loyal and outgoing, an Abyssinian often follows you from room to room, eager for interaction. They adapt well to leash training and can learn tricks because of their intelligence.

These cats require daily playtime to burn off all that activity, so puzzle toys or interactive play sessions are a must.

Is This Your SnuggleSoul?

If you’re an active pet owner who can keep up with a cat that wants all your attention, an Abyssinian might be the one. These kitties practically demand games – they’ll fetch toys or race you up the stairs if you give them a chance.

We recommend them to people who want to teach tricks to their cat: Abyssinians usually respond well to clicker training.

In short, if you’re looking for a furry bundle of energy that will never say “no” to a play session, your SnuggleSoul may just be an Abyssinian.

Read more about Abyssinian

Burmese

Introduce

Burmese cats are famously people-oriented and playful. We’ve observed they form strong bonds – waiting patiently for their meals (like a good dog) and engaging in family playtime.

A Burmese is very intelligent and amusing, often following you from room to room. They will “chat” with you using soft meows and enjoy playing fetch with small toys.

These cats can become depressed if left alone too long, so they do best in homes where someone is around most of the day.

Is This Your SnuggleSoul?

For dog lovers who want a loyal companion without the need for walks, the Burmese is ideal. They love to be near their humans and will happily roll over for tummy rubs just like a pup asking for attention.

If you want a cat that sits with you at dinner (and maybe even does a little trick to get her food), a Burmese will fit right in.

We know you’ll enjoy having a Burmese “wait” by the fridge or your lap – these affectionate kitties will make even a rainy day feel cozy.

Read more about Burmese

Maine Coon

Introduce

A gentle Maine Coon cat with a long, tufted coat lounging outdoors. Often called the gentle giant of house cats, the Maine Coon combines a huge size with an even bigger heart.

Our team loves how friendly and devoted they are: these cats are known to closely follow their owners and even seem to obey simple commands.

Maine Coons are playful and patient – they’ll chase a toy or play hide-and-seek, but also curl up next to you for pets. Because of their thick, silky fur, they do need regular brushing to prevent mats, but most Coons happily tolerate the grooming.

Is This Your SnuggleSoul?

If a cat as big as a small dog (but twice as cuddly) appeals to you, a Maine Coon could be your match. These affectionate giants love company and are especially good with families.

We find dog owners often adore Maine Coons because they can grow up to 18 pounds – and they use that size for gentle play and love.

You’ll enjoy their easy-going personality: a Maine Coon will greet you at the door, follow you around, and even greet your other pets.

If you want a cuddler that feels like a friendly bear as much as a cat, welcome a Maine Coon into your life – it might just become your best SnuggleSoul.

Read more about Maine Coon

Birman

Introduce

The Birman is a calm, affectionate breed with a sweet disposition. We see them as the gentle nappers of the group: they enjoy play when you initiate it but are equally content to quietly lounge in your lap.

Birmans adapt easily to people of all ages – they are patient and enjoy giving (and receiving) plenty of pets.

Active enough to chase a toy when in the mood, they aren’t hyper, which makes them very family-friendly.

Is This Your SnuggleSoul?

If you prefer a cat that’s loving but low-key, a Birman might steal your heart. These cats love to follow their owner to bed or the sofa and will nuzzle you softly for attention.

We know dog lovers will appreciate a Birman’s loyalty: they often form strong attachments and enjoy routine, just like a content family dog.

If you seek a sweet, gentle friend to curl up beside you every day, the Birman could be the SnuggleSoul you’re looking for.

Read more about Birman

Sphynx

Introduce

Don’t be fooled by its lack of fur – the Sphynx is brimming with personality. We describe Sphynxes as lively, loyal, and extremely affectionate.

They will follow you like a shadow, often “talk” back with trills and purrs, and even wag their long, hairless tails when happy. Being attention-seekers, Sphynxes love cuddling (they feel surprisingly warm to touch) and will happily climb into your lap.

Because they have no coat to absorb oils, they do need regular baths – but in return you get an energetic, playful companion.

Is This Your SnuggleSoul?

If you crave a cat that behaves almost like a little puppy, consider the Sphynx. These cats will greet you eagerly at the door, follow you into every room, and demand cuddles on command.

You should be prepared to bathe them once in a while, but you’ll gain a devoted companion who gives constant feedback with head-butts and purrs.

We’ve found that Sphynx owners love how their cats learn quickly and crave involvement; if that sounds like the cat of your dreams, a Sphynx may be your SnuggleSoul.

Read more about Sphynx

Rescue Cat (Mixed-Breed)

Introduce

A calico cat with green eyes resting on a cozy blanket. : Finally, remember that any cat can surprise you. Many rescue and shelter cats display dog-like traits.

We’ve seen mixed-breed cats that follow their people around, fetch toys, or even learn tricks – because shelters often assess personalities, you can find very social, trainable cats waiting for homes. The “rescue” category here simply means a non-pedigree cat; you might end up with one that acts like two breeds in one. These unique kitties often come with the best of all worlds.

Is This Your SnuggleSoul?

If you’re open to adopting, a rescue cat can be a wonderful snuggle buddy. Talk to shelter staff about a cat that’s friendly and playful. With the right love and encouragement, a rescue cat will repay you with loyalty and affection – sometimes even more so, knowing you chose them.

We always encourage loving homes to give a friendly shelter kitty a chance; you might find your perfect SnuggleSoul unexpectedly.

Our Commitment to You and Your Cat: A Lifetime of Snuggles

At SnuggleSouls, we’re here to help you and your pet thrive together. Our passionate team combines experience with the latest research to give you trustworthy, practical advice on cat behavior and care.

We promise to guide you with warmth and clarity, so you’ll always feel confident about feeding, grooming, and entertaining your feline friend.

Whether you have one of the breeds above or any cat at all, we’re dedicated to supporting you and celebrating every meow, purr, and playful jump with you. Your satisfaction and your cat’s happiness are our top priorities – after all, snuggles are forever!

FAQ

What exactly makes a cat “dog-like”? 

In general, dog-like cats are simply those that show behaviors we usually associate with dogs. For example, they might greet you at the door, follow you around the house, enjoy training games, and even walk on a leash.

According to experts, these traits include strong attachment to owners, an interest in water play, and a willingness to respond to commands. The label “dog-like” isn’t an official breed standard – it’s just a way to describe a cat with unusually loyal, social behavior.

Can any cat learn to act like a dog? 

Absolutely. While some breeds tend to have these qualities, the environment plays a big role. In fact, studies note that kittens who grow up well-socialized often become affectionate and trainable regardless of pedigree.

For example, rescue (mixed-breed) cats are often very loving and playful if they’ve had friendly early experiences. It’s really about your cat’s unique personality and how you raise it: with time, patience and positive reinforcement, you can encourage dog-like behaviors in almost any cat.

How do I train a cat to do tricks or come when called? 

Many cat owners find that dog-like breeds are eager learners. Positive reinforcement works well: use treats or clicker training as you would with a dog. Surprisingly, certain cats will chase a thrown toy or ball much like a pup. For instance, Ragdolls and Abyssinians often enjoy fetch games and can be taught to fetch or do simple tricks. The key is consistency and patience. Research shows cats can be trained on command (as long as you reward them!), so feel free to teach yours to sit, stay or walk on a leash.

Will these cats get along with dogs, kids, or other pets? 

In general, yes – dog-like breeds tend to be very sociable. For example, Ragdolls are famous for being gentle with children and even getting along with dogs. Many Manx and Birman cats are also patient and adapt well to family life. Because these breeds crave companionship, they often enjoy meeting new people and animals. Of course, every animal is individual: proper introductions are important. But if you have other pets, a cat from one of these breeds will often become just another friendly member of the crew.

How much play and care do these cats need? 

Most dog-like cats do best with daily interaction. Active breeds like Abyssinians or Sphynxes love vigorous play or puzzle toys (spruce pets notes Abyssinians have high energy). Make sure to set aside time each day for play – it keeps them happy and out of trouble. Grooming needs vary: short-haired breeds (Abyssinian, Burmese) need little more than weekly brushing, while long-haired cats (Ragdolls, Maine Coons) benefit from regular combing to keep coats mat-free. Overall, plan to engage your cat mentally and physically – they’ll reward you with affectionate antics and loyalty in return.

Are any of these cats hypoallergenic? 

Hypoallergenic cats are rare, and traits like “dog-like” personality don’t usually affect allergens. Among the listed breeds, none are truly hypoallergenic (even the Sphynx, though hairless, produces skin oils). If you have allergies, talk to an allergist; some people handle short-haired breeds (like Abyssinians or Burmese) slightly better, but individual reactions vary.

We hope these insights help you understand and care for the dog-like cat in your life. Remember: every cat is unique, and with the right love and guidance (our promise!), you’ll enjoy a wonderfully rewarding bond – snuggles included.