Training New Dogs to Get Along With Cats

Separate the Dog and Cat

When you first bring a new dog home, keep the animals apart. The pets can become accustomed to each other's scent without having direct confrontations. An unpleasant first encounter might create a rocky relationship from the beginning. Keep them apart using a baby gate, a dog crate, or even separate rooms. To speed up the process, give each pet something to sleep with that has the smell of the other animal on it. Learning each other's scent is the human equivalent to making initial introductions.

Introduce Slowly

After a day or two of separation, begin the introductions. First, take the dog for a long walk so he will be free of any pent-up energy and excitement before the introductions, especially if he is a puppy. Keep him on the leash at all times during the first introductions. Since you do not know how he will react, do not take chances. Bring the cat into the room and allow her to roam freely. Her curiosity will naturally bring her near the dog. If the dog lurches at the cat or acts as if he wants to chase her, give a sharp, quick tug on the leash as a correction. Praise him when he remains calm when she is nearby. Consider distracting him with treats, too. In some cases, the cat may be the aggressive one so watch for hissing, raised hair on her back, and other signs she may swipe at the dog. Correct her and remove her from the room. Repeat this process a few times but continue to keep the cat and dog separated when you are not present to supervise their interactions.

Open Up the House

If you have had positive results with the controlled introductions, you can allow the animals to mingle on their own. You should still separate them when you are not home but if you are in the house, give them a chance to get to know each other on their own terms. To protect your cat, make sure she has places to hide where the dog cannot go. For example, block the stairs with a baby gate so she can flee to the upper level of the home where the dog cannot go. To protect the dog, make sure the cat's claws are not sharp. Cats may be smaller, but they can blind a dog with a carefully aimed swipe when their claws are extended. Ideally, the cat and dog may be interested in one another at first but that interest should wane. Eventually, they will move around the house without paying any attention to one another.

If Problems Do Arise

It might be more difficult to introduce a dog with a strong prey drive, such as any of the hunting dogs. Because they have to overcome that basic instinct to chase a small animal, they can take longer to make the adjustment. Obedience training, lots of exercise, and treats for behaving around the cat should all be used to help the dog. However, the process may take longer and does require patience. Until you are comfortable that the animals will not hurt each another, do not leave them alone together unattended.

Resources

• Tips for Introducing a New Dog to a Resident Cat