Most Australian Shepherds have wonderful, outgoing personalities. Some are a little shy around strangers, but they love spending time with their family members. They generally get along well with young children and other dogs that live in their households. They usually aren’t aggressive when meeting dogs in public places either. If Australian Shepherds can get along with other dogs, can they get along with cats too? Let’s discuss the matter here.
Yes, Australian Shepherds Can Get Along With Cats
Since Australian Shepherds are friendly and easygoing, they can get along well with cats. However, it should never be expected that a dog will automatically accept the company of a cat. Australian Shepherds that are most accepting of cats are those that are well socialized as puppies. Your Australian Shepherd should be introduced to cats when they are little so you can teach them how to behave.
Once your dog meets new cats or gets used to living with one, they shouldn’t have a problem hanging out with a cat day or night. In fact, you might even find that your Australian Shepherd enjoys cuddling with your kitty! Some Australian Shepherds will naturally be good with cats even if they haven’t met one as a pup. Others that aren’t exposed to cats early may never be around one without trying to chase or grab them.
How to Introduce Your Australian Shepherd to a Cat
It’s a good idea to start introducing your Australian Shepherd to cats while they are still a puppy. This enables you to guide their behavior and helps ensure that the pup can’t physically hurt the cat if the introduction does not go well. Take note of both animals’ body language. If your cat doesn’t want to be around the dog, let them go away and try again at another time.
The same goes for your dog. If no aggression is shown on either side, encourage sniffing of one another. Then, let them do their thing and see how it goes. Ensure that your cat doesn’t swipe at your dog and that your dog doesn’t try nipping your cat. Correct any behavior that you do not want them to display. Over time, you should be able to allow them to spend time together without having to watch every move that they make.
If you are introducing an older Australian Shepherd to a cat, make sure the dog is leashed and the cat has a place to retreat to if necessary. You may have to use the leash to restrain your pooch for several days while they get used to the cat’s presence. It’s important to understand that your Australian Shepherd may never get used to spending time with a cat calmly and affectionately. If this becomes the reality, you’ll have to figure out how to keep your pets separated, at least when you are not home.
In Conclusion
Most Australian Shepherds tend to get along with cats, at least enough to be in the same room together. Things like socialization may be necessary, but the process will be well worth it. The younger that an Australian Shepherd is introduced to a cat, the easier it will be for them to get along with cats throughout their entire life.
Featured Image Credit: Eve Photography, Shutterstock
