Pd and Pd-Ni catalysts with three-dimensional hierarchical pores consisting of interconnected dendrite walls are successfully fabricated by cathodic deposition using hydrogen dynamic bubble template. The as-prepared catalysts are characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, element analysis mapping, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and typical electrochemical measurements. It is found that the porous structure enlarges the electro-active surface area; the Ni doping modifies the electronic structure of the catalysts and improves their stability. Thus the porous catalysts exhibit excellent catalytic activity and stability towards methanol oxidation. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.