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What is the best way to introduce a new dog to cats?

post #1 of 3
9/14/10 at 11:34am
Thread Starter 
tomorrow i am going to be getting a Jack Russell. She is 5 years old and is up to date on all shots and is spayed. She was raised around cats but my cats have never been around dogs. what is the best to introduce them?
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post #2 of 3
9/16/10 at 9:31am
What fun. Actually, it could take care of itself. We have 3 cats and three German Shepherds. See this thread.We just got the third one two days ago and had to go through the process.

When we brought in the pup, she would draw a bead on a cat and then lunge.. Immediately we have to call her out. We left her on the leash and when she did it we would tug on the leash and yell "no". This went on for a few hours. When all the dust settled, she finally got close enough to find out how big and furry a cat can make itself. I mean really, the cats looked like they were plugged into the wall outlet. Along with Tasmanian Devil noises and spitting, the cats took their stand.

The puppy decided it's too much of a risk and backed down. The next day, the dog avoids the cats, and the cats are now strutting around thumbing their claws at the puppy.

It may take some time if the dog does show aggression. You also have to keep in mind that the cats can be a likely threat to the dog. You may have to keep them separated for a while.
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post #3 of 3
10/1/10 at 9:22am
It's best to keep them separated for a while and only allow supervised contact.

I don't buy into that whole "week behind closed doors" "week on a tether" then let them go.

I think if you're in the room then its safe to let the animals roam together and learn about each other. But when you are gone or go out put a door between them.

I would say at least for a week or so just keep them separated while you are gone. But only you can judge the comfort level of all of your housemates. They will tell you when they're ready to socialize.

I do recommend keeping the dog on a long tether attached to your hip for at least the first hour or so, just in case someone decides to lunge, whether it be the dog or a kitty, so you can immediately pull them out of harms way.
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