I've got a cat tree out of my BC's reach that my kitty can retreat to when he's had enough play time, and he treats it as his safe zone. Border collies can get along well with cats and dogs of any breed, so long as they're introduced at a relatively young age in a calm, secure environment. Some of the cats ignore the dogs, some love them and like to play with them, and 2 are quite intimidated by them. When the dog stops trying to take the treat, reward them with a different treat. However, cats have razor-sharp claws, and they will put up a fight when cornered. Furthermore, some high-energy herding breeds, such as border collies, often cant stop themselves from herding everyone in the house, cats included. He actually hasn't gotten outbreaks of either condition since I adopted my dog, which surprised me! It is easier to train a border collie when they are a puppy (as puppies are fast learners), preferably younger than 12 weeks old. Can A Border Collie Get Along With A Cat? Border Collies can be taught to get along with cats. I'm glad I worked out a healthy dynamic between the two of them, because my cat is prone to stress-related health problems because he has feline herpes (which is a chronic disease that comes out when cats are stressed or sick, like cold sores) and often gets cystitis when he's sick. Kittens send him over the top. Plus, collies tend to be gentle dogs, including with kids and other family pets. This means that they like boys more than female dogs. Fun Games and Activities for German Shepherds. Border Collies are one of the most caring and loving breeds. This helps prevent competition and conflicts. And some hounds, especially scent hounds, were bred to work closely in packs, so they are usually friendly with other furry family members. How do you punish a dog for chasing a cat? When introducing a cat and dog, it is important to do so gradually. The most ideal situation is for a new border collie puppy to come into a home that already has one or more cats. Bag - Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs, Salmon & Rice Formula Oat meal is easily digestible and gentle on the digestive system. CERTIFIED GENTLE AND SAFE Chlorine free and color safe. React with a firm NO if Doggo gets too excited. The following are the four best breeds known to get along well with German Shepherds: Siberian Huskies. So gentle its been Certified Safe for all carpets, earning the Seal of Approval by the trusted Carpet and One (1) 30 lb. Copyright 2023 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Border collies were bred initially as sheepdogs, and these highly intelligent dogs love nothing more than to be put to work. You may notice your border collie following your cat around the house, as if trying to guide them. Just remember that dogs are individuals, and not all dogs, even of the same breed, will fit the mold. I used to try an split them up when they wrestled, but I gave up a couple months ago. If she's sitting at the top or bottom or the stairs, the dogs will no go past her. This includes Amazon. Physical Characteristics: Sturdy, muscular body with a lustrous gold coat, broad head, and friendly and intelligent eyes. No matter the gender, they will typically weigh between 30 to 55 pounds (14 to 25 kg). Introduce your pets face-to-face and have them watch each other move around. But make sure that they are properly introduced and trained to get along. An adult Border collie from a rescue or shelter can be more challenging to introduce and train around cats. Youll be happier if you know your new family member will get along with the kitty. They get along fine now and can be left alone with no worries. Regularly feeding of treats, rewards and offering praise will also incentivize your border collie to act better in the presence of cats. Golden Retrievers. Because they are herding dogs, Borders usually get along with other animals. Put your new cat on a leash next to your border collie after youve walked him around the house and praise him if hes calm. Certain breed groups are more likely to get along with cats than others. Not all cats will get along with even the friendliest of dogs. Before you can begin training, you must have a list of items to effectively do so. Ensure that you have separate places for your border collie and cat(s) to go, and safe areas for them to feel comfortable. Border Collies naturally have strong herding instincts, and cats can end up on the receiving end of this. Weighing less than seven pounds on average, the Maltese is around the size of a cat, which causes many cats to feel comfortable around it. Likewise, a cat who tries to escape will only trigger the Border collie to run after him. Once these little ones develop the ideal behavior in their younger ages, the rest of your life will be a cake-walk! Bear was raised around a siamese that would swat him on the nose regularlysometimes to keep him in line, sometimes for no reason at all. Border Collies are generally known to be very good with cats. However, this can lead to the Border Collie becoming more obsessed with cats over time. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Its preferable if they have their own room, so they may relax before meeting their new acquaintance. Many Border Collies can thrive with a companion dog, but you have to be very careful with the breed. For this reason, it is important to keep an eye on a border collie when they are around cats. As such, your collie will herd them, and giving the eye is just part of the process. Nope, they are mortal enemies, don't get along at all. Bear isn't too fond of this but tolerates it. Clear editor. The good news is that they wont mean any harm. Its crucial to give your cat his own room and not compel them to do anything they dont want to do if they appear terrified or panicked. While showing him about your house, teach your new cat where to go when he wants to be alone. BCs, Gideon and Micah and a token JRT just to keep me humble. That is why it is crucial to divert your collies attention to other things other than herding. If a cat runs after intense eye contact, the collie will chase after him. Cats Tend To Get Used To Border Collies. They work at a fast pace, covering ever greater distances to herd and move livestock. ]. On the bright side, I have seen many instances where Border collies and cats get along well in their homes. Our cats and dogs have always played together. The dogs are taught that they mustn't chase the cats, but I do allow play if the cat intiates it. Your pup might not control his bite and injure the unsuspecting feline. This heavy-duty worker is 23 to 25 inches tall, and this well-furred Alaskan Malamute has an affectionate side. Aggression coming from either animal should not be tolerated. Its inevitable that having a border collie and a cat together would result in competitiveness and jealousy. While all three are highly intelligent and can be trained to behave around cats, the smaller miniature and toy varieties are generally less intimidating to a cat. Now, how would you feel if someone was following you and watching your every move? Farming, sheep, gardening, agility, reining, music/guitar, technology, trail running/hiking/exploring. I've been thinking of getting a Border Collie pup since my Golden Retriever passed away a few months ago, however I have 2 cats (who got along fine with the Golden, respecting each others space) and am concerned how a Border Collie would get along with them, as I keep hearing that they do not mix well due to their herding instinct. In fact, toy poodles are roughly the size of many cats and often will become close companions and playmates with their feline friends. My dogs have better games to play, and it's not fair for the cat (the dog is bigger) or the dog (the cat has claws). Also, it helps to provide your cat with a high place to run to. Poodles come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. The deterrence method involves actively trying to isolate your border collie and cat from one another, and usually follows a period of unsuccessful socialization. Aiguo Kai is one of the authors and editors of Pet Creeks, he is focused on teaching and providing useful information about pets. This will save a repetitive strain injury in your arm and ensure you give them plenty of exercise and opportunity to run around. You can teach this command by holding a treat in your hand and allowing the dog to sniff it. There are also three particular methods that work well when training your border collie to be social and friendly with cats. As an adult cat, Tiger Lily teased the pups when they came but as they grew she started to recognize them as potential pals. Always introduce dogs and cats cautiously until you know they will get along. This is, of course, is most likely to occur if your border collie and cat have been socialized properly. She'd smack them then take off across the yard for one of the fence posts, scramble up and laugh at them jumping about her. In her salad days she even caught an adult turkey by snapping its legs when it rose up in front of her to try to fly away. This breed excels at so many canine sports that signing up your border collie to one of these classes is an excellent way to burn off some energy. Having said that, border collies are an entirely different breed than rough collies. Of course, it is not a good idea to have both of these breeds if you do not have the time to dedicate to your pets as both breeds are highly intelligent, active dogs that need daily physical and mental stimulation. Newfies are patient, calm, and protective of their family members. Certain ways can help you introduce a border collie with a cat. She and Robin occasionally snooze near each other but not on top of each other. It is also important to remember that stopping your dog from chasing a cat is always better than trying to correct the behavior after it happens. You should complete your border collies obedience training and socialize before considering bringing in a cat if you must have an adult cat. So, how do Border collies and cats coexist in your home? With the help of your kids, he can channel his energy into something more productive. The owner of this website, furryherders.com, is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking furryherders.com review to Amazon properties including, but not limited to, amazon.com. Do remember that both cats and dogs have unique personalities and behaviors. A Border Collie named Blitz recently saved a 51-year-old woman's life in England. The next second they are best buds-it is soooo funny to watch! However, I would rather choose the lesser evil than have my dog maim another family member or risk him being put down or rehomed. Our current cat, Anni, likes to walk under the dogs and rub on their belly. One of the main reasons why Border Collies may become obsessed with cats is their strong herding behavior. I do not let my dogs chase my cats. They are typically affectionate dogs with a moderate energy level, and they tend to live peacefully with other pets, cats included. Border collies need both physical and mental challenges -- agility courses, training, games of fetch and regular walks or runs. You may need to consider getting cat flaps installed. I'm not sure, but wow, does he love cats. Height: Standard: 15 inches; miniature: 10 to 15 inches; toy: 10 inches and under, Weight: Standard: 45 to 70 pounds; miniature: 15 to 18 pounds; toy: 5 to 9 pounds, Physical Characteristics: Curly, dense, single-layer coat that may be one of many solid colors, including white, black, gray, brown, and apricot. Contents show. Despite having a pet gate, you should not allow Border collies and cats to meet for at least three days, if not a full week. Yes, the Border Collie can chase the cat and vice versa, but with proper training and supervision, these can become great friends. In fact, pet parents have reported that this behavior has driven their cats into hiding and refuse to eat their meals. The cat has smacked her a few times for being too nosy and made her yelp, that's probably why she respects him. The above lists of dogs that get along with cats and dogs that do not get along with cats, therefore, are not a black and white declaration, rather, they just simply list breeds of dogs that are more likely to chase and view cats as prey and dogs that are more ready to accept cats as a friend. Since they notice a kind of game when the Border Collie starts this behavior. Your pup might show these same behaviors with the cat, so supervise their play and intervene before the biting stage. The Cavalier King Charles spaniel is part of the American Kennel ClubToy Group. Over time, the dog can become protective of the cat as though it was part of the family. It is advised to use positive training methods to teach the dog appropriate alternative behavior. Massage your hands on your border collies back while drawing the cat closer with one hand to praise him for being calm. Border collies do not necessarily have to be employed in farms, but you should always give this work-driven canine a job to keep him pumped up. Since they notice a kind of game when the Border Collie starts this behavior. Border collies do get along with cats if you get both pets from their puppy and kitten stages. Much depends on the personality of both your collie and your cat and the age at which they are introduced. Educating a border collie and a cat at the same time is likely to be tough. Milk-Bone Soft & Chewy Dog Treats, Beef & Filet Mignon Recipe, 25 Ounces, Milk-Bone Original Dog Treats Biscuits for Medium Dogs, 10 Pounds (Packaging May Vary), Milk-Bone MaroSnacks Dog Treats, Beef, 40 Ounce, Purina Friskies Gravy Wet Cat Food Variety Pack, Poultry Shreds, Meaty Bits & Prime Filets Cans of 5.5 oz. This will help to reinforce the desired behavior. Although they don't typically mean to harm other animals, nipping and other herding behavior can injure cats. Do Border Collies pick a Favourite person? And its good manners extend to cats as well as people. Your border collie may end up herding or chasing away the cat. In the next section we will look at some practical things that you can do. How do I get my Border Collie to stop chasing cats? You will also need a long leash and toys. While this is entirely natural for a border collie to do, a cat will not take to it very well. However, if you already have a border collie and want to add a cat to the mix, its fine as long as you are ready to put in the work. Firstly, before we continue it is important you know that border collies are not the best breed of dog for cats because they were selectively bred to be herding dogs. How much company do Border Collies need? Only positive training techniques should be used. . Because border collies are friendly dogs that enjoy being around other dogs, it will be simple, yetyou have to beconsistent. These are: The idea here is to keep your border collie distracted and to refrain from the need of herding/chasing a cat. Not sure what was up with kitty, but she sure showed them. Of course, they're also smaller and more fragile, so make sure the play doesn't get rambunctious. Most adult dogs are 18 - 22 inches tall and reach a weight of 30 - 55 pounds. Make him your jogging partner or train him to become an athlete. The cats have a tree (which isn't real protection from a determined dog because it's not that tall); their main escape is the guest room, which is baby gated to keep the dogs out. Breed Characteristics. My grandparents used to have a little B&W farm cat that used to sleep curled up with the BC they had at that time. When a border collie lives with an energetic cat, he or she receives more exercise. In my experience, border collies can get along with other breeds that they live with better than they do with some other breeds when they're out and about. There are also many cases where the cats usually carry it very well after this process and even have fun. 05 of 10 Golden Retriever Here are the qualities you can expect from raising a Border Collie dog, on a scale of 1 paw (low) to 5 paws (high). Breeds like Shiba Inus, terriers, greyhounds, and border collies often come up in discussions about dog breeds that don't get on well with kitties . This behavior is inherited from their ancestors, who were used to herd sheep and other livestock. Provide plenty of exercises and mental stimulation: A tired and mentally stimulated dog is less likely to engage in problem behaviors like chasing. A Border collie is an avid herder, and so, he may stare at your cat as part of his instinctual herding behavior. Sure, staring down wont injure a cat, but it causes the recipient stress that can manifest in physical ways. The gate will prevent your dog from charging at your cat. It took centuries of breeding to keep all the characteristics that make them who they are today. Herding of other animals can be defined in multiple ways, including chasing, nipping, and barking. Most of the dogs now ignore the cats, except Meg, the eight month old. Disconnect the leash and put on some pet-friendly movies to watch with your border collieand see how they react. How that is possible, I don't know, but there you go. I just adopted a female kitten and she seems fine for the most partwith the dog but my old man seems to be stressed. These dogs don't "work" for the sake of working like the Border Collie or Australian . This breed can get along with almost every person and animal imaginable, including cats. Every border collie is different; some are likely to get along better with cats than others. Out of sight, I heard a yelp from Meg and then both dogs come running full speed back to the car and jump in. My baby lives with a four-year-old male cat and they get along surprisingly well. A natural part of herding is nipping which will not likely be received very well by your cat. So, as much as possible, there should be no mishap during the introduction. We do not tolerate any interaction with the 2 that are intimidated, we let the ones that like to play set the pace, but call a halt if it gets out of hand, the ones that ignore them are, quite frankly, ignored right back. Physical Characteristics: Dark, alert eyes shrouded by white fur that is naturally long and silky; single-layer coat without an undercoat. You'll want to set aside significant time to keep your border collie occupied. Many families already pair up Labradors and Border Collies because they are a wonderful combination. I think cat trees are a must-have for anyone who has cats and dogs living together. So, are border collies good with cats? A professional trainer or behaviorist can offer tips to make the introduction go more smoothly. Moreover, it is recommended to be consistent with your dog and not to reinforce unwanted behavior. This is why they find it hard to get along with other canines. How Do I Stop a Dog From Attacking a Cat?. We have 2 BCs (soon to be 3!) If you recall Lassie (a rough collie), you know that collies are lovers, not fighters. Fortunately, Grab/Bite, Kill, Dissect, and Consume have already been bred out. Predatory aggression in dogs causes the most difficulty when it comes to peaceful interspecies relationships. So, it is advised to be sensitive to each pets behavior and make adjustments as necessary. The Pomeranian is a spirited and engaging toy dog. each, 32 count, Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator for Strong Odor - Enzyme Pet Odor Eliminator for Home - Carpet Stain Remover for Cats and Dog Pee - Enzymatic Cat Urine Destroyer - Carpet Cleaner Spray, Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs, Salmon & Rice Formula - 30 lb.
