Which Dog Breed Is Good Company for Your Cat?

We have all brought upon a premise that cats and dogs are natural born enemies. We perceive their relationship as naturally based on hostility. However, this belief is greatly challenged by many examples of cats and dogs who live happily together. Even though we know that cat and dog will fight if they share the same territory, the reality of examples who live peacefully is contrary to what we have been used to think. Furthermore, some of them become best friends. But, to do it successfully, they have to grow up together and adjust to each other from their early age. Thus, if we love cats and dogs equally, veterinarians suggest to start from the very beginning: kittens and puppies can make a strong bond that could exist and remain unchangeable during their lifespans. However, if we have an adult cat or a dog and want to adopt another animal, we need to take more effort. Above all, we have to find out which dog breed is more cat-friendly because some dog breeds are out of consideration and can cause us and the cat a lot of troubles. The article “Best and Worst Dog Breeds to Live with Cats” gives us a list of 6 dog breeds that can be a good company for our cats.

• Pomeranian. These fluffy dogs weigh at from three to seven pounds and a lot of that is hair. If you can stand the grooming chores, this dog will be about
the size of a cat. They are affectionate and full of confidence. Although they were originally bred to be a working dog, they relish the role of pampered
pet and will want to share a lap with a cat. A devious cat may find a Pom’s fur just the thing to groom—wanted or not.

• Chihuahua. This short-coated breed is very confident, willing to take on larger dogs and he usually manages to intimidate them. Weighing in at about six
pounds, these pint-sized dogs will feel the chill faster than most so they welcome a warm cat as a nap companion.

• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This dog is the definition of laid back. They make great therapy dogs and are very tolerant of other animals. Be sure to
provide a lap for two though as the Cavalier is a cuddler. Expect him to weigh about fourteen pounds.

• Shetland Sheepdog aka Sheltie. This is an exceptionally intelligent working breed. He needs a job and herding cats might just be the thing. He’ll be glad
to round up the scattered cat toys too. There’s a lot of grooming involved but this sweet tempered dog is well worth the trouble.

• Beagle. Although Beagles are a hunting dog, they are also gentle and generally slow-moving because they are scent oriented. It takes extra time to follow
a trail when you’re only using your nose! Beagles have a sweet disposition and are willing to share the limelight.

• 6. Golden Retriever or Labrador Retriever. These are larger dogs, the Lab short haired and easier to groom, the Golden with longer hair and a lot of
shedding. Both have a good temperament and lots of tolerance. Eager to please and in need of a job, either breed will be good with kids, other dogs and
cats.

According to experts, another important issue to reconsider, is their mutual introduction. In the animal kingdom, the scent is the most important factor in their survival. If we want them not to perceive each other as a threat, veterinarians recommend beginning their introduction with scent. Then, help them explore each other’s territory. The third step is the most important one: introducing cat and dog through a closed door or a gate. It is the most important step because it helps them establish a favorable relationship by associating their first encounter with popular traits. By securing their encounter from any inconvenience and make it relaxing and pleasurable to the both of them, will significantly increase chances for a good relationship or at least peaceful cohabitation.