Want a dog breed compatible with cats? Meet 8 great companions
The post Want a dog breed compatible with cats? Meet 8 great companions appeared first on Dog's Best Life .
Thanks to TV show stereotyping, many people believe that dogs and cats are mortal enemies. The truth is that cats and dogs can coexist and even become best friends. Choose from a list of dog breeds compatible with cats, then focus on training and nurturing both pets.
Maybe you want a new companion for your kitty or to welcome a dog to the family while already having a cat. If you are a dog and cat lover, choosing dog breeds compatible with cats is best.
You can help your fluffy friends socialize and get accustomed to each other through cautious introductions and training.
This article discusses eight dog breeds compatible with cats.
Labrador Retriever
These breeds are also lovingly called “Labs.” They are energetic, outgoing, and good-natured creatures. Labrador Retrievers are gigantic compared to your feline friend, but incredibly caring and affectionate. They will readily accept your kitty as their own.
Moreover, they are not inherently jealous and can easily share their space with your cat. Your feline companion should also be able to share her space with the friendly Labrador.
Labs are also intelligent and gentle. They are the perfect companions for your kids as well.
Golden Retriever
Golden retrievers are known for their playfulness. They are a well-behaved, gentle breed. Their kindness and adaptability make it easy for them to befriend your cat and accept it as a family member.
Their playfulness can be a downside as they tend to chase other animals for fun. They need some initial training so that they do not chase your cat. Once they are successfully trained , your goldie and kitty will surely be BFFs.
Golden retrievers are also adaptable and obedient, making them easy to teach and train. With their playfulness, affectionate nature, and empathy, they are the complete package of joy.
You can also give your goldie a creative name matching your cat’s name. Suppose you name your dog Peanut, and your cat is named Butter. You can also do the opposite and name your cat using a cat name generator .
Beagles
Beagles are one of the top dog breeds compatible with cats. The dogs are generally friendly creatures and get along well with other animals.
Due to their extraordinary sense of smell, they were bred to hunt in large packs led by hunters. Hence, they needed to be compatible and amicable with other animals.
Beagle puppies are usually carefree and make excellent companions. Since they are friendly toward many animals, they are also amiable with cats.
They will view your feline as a member of their pack. Their congenial nature makes them a wholesome addition to the family.
Pugs
The pug is another amiable breed and can be the ideal furry companion to your cat. They are also small, and their size makes it easier to play with the cat. You also do not have to worry about your cat being hurt by accidentally sitting upon this dog.
As long as the cat accepts the pug, they can quickly become good friends. While the humans are away, your cat and pug can bond and play with each other. It is their nature to lounge around, so you do not have to stress over them chasing the cat.
Since pugs are small and sweet-natured, they are also safe around other small pets like hamsters.
Basset Hound
Basset hounds are scent hounds like beagles and were bred to hunt in packs. They move slowly as they have long bodies with short legs. Their slow movement will make your cat feel less intimidated and more likely to befriend them, which makes them one of the best dog breeds compatible with cats.
Basset hounds are generally easy-going and calm-natured toward other creatures. Hence, they will also be friendly with your feline. Moreover, their laid-back nature will invite your cat to cuddle with them.
Despite being laidback, this breed is a bit stubborn during training . The training might take some time, but they are amazing additions to your ménagerie once accomplished.
Poodles
Poodles are available in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. All three types are compatible playmates for your feline companion. All of them are very intelligent and easy to train. Miniature and toy poodles are roughly the same size as cats.
Hence, cats are less intimidated by them and can quickly form a close-knit bond. They are also very protective and will go to great lengths to protect your kitty. They need plenty of exercise and will be on their best behavior when they are active daily.
Taking them for daily walks and playing with them will improve relationship dynamics.
Maltese
Since Maltese are generally the same size as cats, many cats are less daunted by them and feel more comfortable around them. They are known to be the epitome of the toy breed . Maltese are affectionate, kind-hearted, and pretty mellow.
They also love to relax or lounge around and will not be concerned about your kitty’s activities.
Hence, you do not have to worry about them creating chaos by going after your cat. Your cats will play with the Maltese’s long fur while lying on the couch. The two can live peacefully once your cat is trained not to annoy your Maltese.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Dogs of this breed are caring, gentle, and adaptable. Despite their small stature, they have fearless personalities. Cats are not scared by them due to their small size.
Cavalier King Charles spaniels are bred to be affectionate, obedient, and amicable lap dogs. They get along with humans and other animals, making them compatible with your children and kitties.
Safely introduce your dog to a cat
With the right approach, bringing a new dog into a home with an existing cat can be a smooth process.
Here are some recommendations to help the two pets acclimate to each other:
Create a safe space for your cat
Start by ensuring that your cat has a safe space to retreat to if it feels overwhelmed. This could be a room with its food, water, litter box, and favorite toys.
Make sure the dog cannot access this space.
Use gradual introductions
Instead of forcing the two animals to meet immediately, allow them to gradually get used to each other’s presence.
Start by allowing them to smell each other’s belongings, like bedding or toys, to familiarize them with their scents.
Controlled introductions
When ready for a face-to-face meeting, keep the dog on a leash during the first few interactions and allow the cat to roam freely.
Watch their body language closely; if the cat seems stressed or agitated, it’s best to step back.
Positive reinforcement
Use treats and praise to reward both pets for calm behavior during introductions.
This builds positive associations with each other’s presence. For instance, give your dog a treat when they calm down, ignore the cat, and reward the cat for approaching the dog or remaining relaxed.
Short supervised sessions
Initially, keep the meetings short; just a few minutes at a time, gradually increasing the length as they become more comfortable.
Always supervise these interactions until you’re confident they can be together without incident.
Train pets to get along
Use basic commands
Teaching your puppy basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it” can help manage their behavior around the cat.
This training can prevent excited or potentially aggressive actions.
Encourage calmness
Train your dog to remain calm when the cat is around. This can be challenging since if you have a dog with a strong prey drive, their instincts may motivate them to chase the cat.
Techniques like desensitization (gradually exposing your dog to the cat while rewarding calm behavior) can be very effective.
Cat-friendly training
Although cats are generally less trainable than dogs, you can still encourage your cat to feel safe around the new dog.
Reward your cat with treats for approaching the dog, and create a positive environment for interaction.
Establish a routine
Maintaining a daily routine for feeding, walking, and playtime can help both pets feel secure.
A predictable routine reduces anxiety and allows for better adjustment.
Provide separate resources
Ensure each pet has food and water bowls, toys, and resting areas.
This can help prevent territorial disputes and make both pets feel secure in their spaces.
Be patient
Remember that every pet is different; the introduction process can take time.
Be patient and avoid rushing the process. If necessary, consult a professional trainer or behaviorist for advice tailored to your specific pets.
Consider dog breeds compatible with cats
These breeds are ideal furry friends, whether you want a canine addition to your family or a cat companion.
Remember to supervise the introduction of cats and dogs and provide proper training to ensure the animals bond and become loving companions.
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The post Want a dog breed compatible with cats? Meet 8 great companions appeared first on Dog's Best Life .
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