03.04.26 Dog behaviour. Dog training. Helping your dog and cat get along

Ensure you have worked on basic training with your dog so you know you’ll have greater control when they are around your cat/s. A great command to teach for this is the 'Leave' - where a dog steps back away from an animal or object. Then, training and your dog's overall behaviour benefit from sufficient mental and physical exercise every day. Pent-up energy can be put to negative behaviour, like an increased likelihood of your dog fixating on and chasing your cat, as well as an overall higher level of tension and anxiety in your canine companion. Look to build a positive association with the other animal. When your dog comes into the room with your cat, have cat treats handy and as often as you can, dispense them while your cat can see your dog. Then vice-versa, treat your dog upon them seeing your cat if they are reacting well here. Though if your dog becomes highly excitable, remove them from the room to calm down. Then, make sure you have high resting places where your cat can easily and safely retreat away. Have your cats food, water and litter tray if required, where only they can access. If utilizing a crate for your dog, keep this away from your cat’s normal feeding/drinking/toileting/sleeping area’s and your cat’s access to the outdoors (cat door) if possible. Importantly, never punish either animal for aggressive behaviour here as a negative association can form with the other animal, Selina McIntyre, Dog Behavioural Consultant & Dog Trainer, Dogs Best Friend. For more dog behavioural and training tips, advice and suggestions, why not check out my book in association with HarperCollins ‘Big Dog, Small Dog - Make your dog happier by being understood’ thank you 🐾