Introducing Your Bernedoodle Puppy To The Family Feline

This Bernedoodle puppy isn’t too sure if the kitty really wants to be friends!

It’s long held belief that cats and dogs are arch enemies, but is it really true? As with most generalizations, it’s really more complex than just a basic statement.

So, let’s dig in a bit.  We have dogs and cats, several of each!  When we have new puppies, we make sure the pups are acclimated to the cats so, as they get older, they’ll see the cat as just another friend.  Our cats love the dogs, and the puppies especially. Once the puppies are weaned from their mom, it’s not uncommon to find a cat sleeping with a pile of puppies! The cats will play with the puppies for hours and I honestly don’t know if the cats know the difference between puppies and cats. 

It looks like the kitten definitely is in charge!

It’s much more difficult to get an adult dog to befriend a cat if the dog has never been around cats! Many times the adult dog will want to chase the cat (in good fun) and play too roughly with the cat, causing the cat to hiss and run.  That’s why it’s so important to acclimate them to cats when they are young puppies. They will learn that cats are companions and not something to chase up a tree. 

Awww play nice!

When bringing a new puppy into a home where a cat lives, it’s important to introduce the puppy to the cat in an orderly and gentle way.   They can be the best of friends if it’s handled correctly.  

Start out by sitting on the floor with your new puppy and bringing the cat nearby.  Don’t force it. Just sit patiently with both the cat and the puppy and let them work it out.  Normally, the puppy will inch a little closer in an attempt to investigate this odd creature.

The kitten is having way too much fun!

The puppy and the cat will take a bit of time, both inching forward and back a few times until they feel like it’s safe.  Some cats take longer than others to adjust to the new family member, but just be patient. As they become more comfortable with one another, they will begin to play and actually enjoy the companionship. If your cat seems agitated or angry, just wait a bit and then try again. 

My new BFF!

All animals have different personalities and there’s no exact formula for the adjustment period.  Before you know it, your new puppy and your cat will be best friends.