10 Friends That Can Make Life More Fun For Your Dog
If your dog has more zoomies than you can handle and keeps bringing you toys you didn’t even know you owned, it might be time to let them make a buddy. These 20 animals don’t replace dog parks or belly rubs, but they do bring something special to the friendship table.
Goats
Goats are like the backyard chaos twins your doggo never knew they needed in their life. They’ll bump heads sometimes and follow each other around. Pups love themselves some goat energy, so don’t let them bully the goat into being a chew toy.
Cats
The age-old “cats and dogs” thing is mostly drama because they can be good cuddle partners once trust is built. Get a chill, confident kitty, though, to avoid hissing standoffs. Take things slowly, and you might just end up with a pooch who shares their space with a purring roommate.
Geese
Geese are loud and walk like they own the yard, which your pup might respect. Some fall into watchdog mode, hanging out near the goose crew like bouncers at a club. Just be cautious at first. Geese nip and dogs bark. You don’t want that combo going confrontational.
Mini Pigs
These little guys are intelligent, tidy, and quite affectionate. Mini pigs love routines and treats, so if you think your pup would be cool with snouts and grunts, it’s a match! Pigs don’t like chaos, though, so maybe skip yourself a Babe if your dog can get wild.
Ferrets
Fuzzy speed demons with zero chill—that’s what Ferrets are, which is precisely why playful dogs love them. They’ll dart and pop out of nowhere—live-action entertainment. They are not great for aggressive or big, jumpy canines, though. These adorable, chaotic animals are tiny, so you’ll need eyes on them during playtime.
Ducks
If your dog’s got herding instincts or motherly vibes, ducks can work out. Curious and with a pecking order, they can keep to themselves. Some dogs even act like security for them—just pacing around like feathered royalty is in town. Who knew backyard life could be this wholesome?
Guinea Pigs
These tiny squeakers are perfect for dogs who are calm and don’t have a strong prey drive. Guinea pigs mostly stay in their cage, but some pups like lying nearby or gently sniffing. It’s all very soft and mellow—great for homes that already feel like a peaceful little retreat.
Horses
Dogs and horses? Total farm goals. Many herding or working dogs instantly “get” horses—they understand the body language and the pacing. Some horses will even nuzzle their canine friends. Just make sure your dog isn’t zooming behind them because one swift kick and playtime is over.
Rats
Rats are social and love interaction. They’ll run mazes and peek through cage bars. If your dog’s not the bite-first, sniff-later type, they might really enjoy rat-watching. You’ll still need to supervise—no face-to-face smooches. Calm pooches might bond surprisingly well with these tiny brainiacs.
Turtles
Dogs that are more snoozer than sprinter will love themselves a turtle companion. These reptiles don’t do much, but pups find them super interesting—the slow movement, the occasional neck stretch. Of course, no chewing is allowed. Turtle shells aren’t built for dog mouths, obviously.
Chickens
Chickens can live surprisingly well with dogs, especially if your pooch isn’t out for poultry revenge. Once boundaries are clear, some dogs actually “guard” the flock. Bonus: your pup gets entertainment, and you get fresh eggs. Just don’t introduce them during mealtime. Dogs plus raw chicken? Recipe for disaster.
Rabbits
Rabbits and dogs happen, too. If your pet is patient and not a born hunter, rabbits can become sweet companions to them. They’re gentle, quiet, and love grooming their pals. Supervision is a must at first, though. One excited bark and the rabbit might remain under the couch forever.
Donkeys
Donkeys are surprisingly loyal and protective. They also have that dry, no-nonsense energy that calms hyperdogs down. If your pup needs a grounded pal, a donkey might be perfect. Just know: donkeys don’t do “fetch,” and they definitely don’t appreciate sneak attacks. Respect the ears, and the friendship thrives.
Parrots
For dogs who are used to chaos or create it, parrots are oddly compatible. They talk and sometimes bark back. Pooches that are the curious type will probably be obsessed. However, keep that parrot’s perch high and safe. One wrong jump, and you’ve got feathers flying—not cute or safe.
Llamas
Llamas won’t fetch or play chase, but they make solid companions for calm pups. Think of them as the wise, silent neighbor who occasionally hums. Dogs often trail behind them like loyal sidekicks. Llamas actually make great pasture buddies for dogs that respect space and don’t try to bite ankles.
Sheep
It’s not all “baah” and boredom—some dogs, especially herders, love living near sheep. They get purpose and a whole squad to monitor. That said, sheep spook easily. So, if your pup is not trained or naturally calm, you may want to delay bringing a sheep home.
Alpacas
Alpacas are like the chill cousins of llamas—less drama, more fluff. Besides being quiet and curious, they are not easily spooked. Certain dogs just gently trail them while others nap nearby like they’ve claimed a personal cloud. As long as there’s no barking chaos, this duo can totally work.
Bearded Dragons
If your dog is the nap-all-day, sunbathe-on-the-patio type, a bearded dragon could totally be his speed. These chill reptiles mostly vibe and watch the world go by. Your dog might lie next to their enclosure for hours. Plus point? No barking or fur and very little poop drama.
Cows
Big, sweet, and slow-moving—cows are like giant mellow friends. Dogs raised around them often fall into a buddy routine, like guarding or just keeping them company. Cows have a way of recognizing familiar dogs. It can be peaceful and oddly cute having them together.
Turkeys
Domestic turkeys are weirdly social. They’ll peck your shoelaces and hang around dogs like nosy roommates. Easygoing dogs that won’t mind a little tail fluff in their face will find a great yard buddy in them. Plus, turkeys are super nosy, so monitor interactions to protect them.
