Cats and dogs can become good friends. They can be company to each other, providing needed exercise chasing through the house or yard. Dogs bring so much happiness and pleasure into our lives that it is not surprising that you are considering adopting one as a companion for you and your cat!

Inter-species introductions follow the same basic rules of adoption as same species. It would be best to choose smaller also but only an eight-week old puppy would fulfill this requirement. A puppy is a more acceptable choice to an existing cat for two reasons. Most puppies have not had a chance to discover how much fun it is to chase a cat. The second reason is that a puppy is less threatening than a full-grown dog. If an adult dog has been socialized to cats, or if your cat has had a good relationship with dogs, the job of introducing them will be that much easier. However, there are many, many adult dogs who could care less about cats and would therefore, make excellent companions. DO NOT be convinced that only a puppy will work in your household!

There are several things to consider before introducing a new dog to your existing cat. You must protect their health by making sure vaccinations for both are up-to-date and each is free of worms and fleas. Cats are very territorial and do not appreciate any change in their environment. Therefore, no matter what, this will be a stressful situation for your cat. Be sure your cat is mentally and physically healthy before introducing her to a dog. Ask a friend to bring the dog to your home. Be sure the dog is on a leash and under control at the time of arrival. Your friend can then turn the dog and leash over to you. If your cat does not run and hide, let her make the first advances toward the new dog. If the dog displays any inappropriate aggressive behavior toward the cat, he should be quickly and firmly corrected with a slight jerk on the leash and a verbal "NO." This is the beginning of your assertion as this dog's leader and , as leader you will not permit him to chase the cat. After they get to know each other, friendly games of chase are acceptable.

After an hour or so of this controlled introduction, release your dog with leash still attached and let them come together. It is the dog's natural instinct to chase, so be prepared to grab the dragging leash and assert your leadership. Be warned! Your cat may go on the offensive. Be prepared to protect your dog's eyes or nose from scratches. Chances are very good that your cat is going to retreat to high ground and survey this new creature from a safe height while your dog explores the house. Your dog will adjust fine. Your cat will be under some stress and may take several weeks to act as she did before this newcomer arrived. Talk to your cat, give her lots of hugs and great food treats. Be understanding, and forgiving, if she sprays a time or two or if she jumps up on something normally off-limits. She will get used to the idea of having a dog around, and chances are very good that they will become best friends.