Cats and dogs?

[x_abi_x]

I've got 2 cats at the moment but we are thinking about getting a jack russell. Was wondering if the cats will be ok if we introduce a dog? The cats are two and we are thinking about getting a puppy.
Does anyone have cats and dogs together?

[jules77]

JRT's are commonly known to harass, injure or kill other small pets, such as cats, birds, rabbits, mice, rats, etc., simply due to their strong natural hunting instinct. Raising a JRT puppy with a cat does not guarantee the cat's life long safety!

Dogs and cats can live happilly together, although the cats may take umbridge when you first bring a puppy into the house, but think you are asking for trouble with a jack russell.

[Sillyfilly]

We've always had dogs and cats together and never had any problems. Because you are introducing a puppy to older cats you will prob find the dog will grow up to respect the cats. The cats will be ' in charge'.

[cardi88]

ive got a sheepdog who's mad about my three cats so i think it depends on the breed of dog, i have found wikipedia very useful when investigating what breed of dog i was going to get - it gives just a basic temprament description and unfortunatley like jules says Jack Russels seem to be the very worst breed for cat co-habitation it goes as far as to say the breed are cat aggresive! although i know plenty of farms that have terriers and cats together.

[x_abi_x]

If i didn't get a jack russell, i was thinking a Border Collie, does anyone know if they would be better with the cats?

[ruby27]

x_abi_x

I think technically any breed can live with cats. There are Greyhounds who do live successfully with cats. However, I understand that an enormous amount of training is required (far more than the amount required for your normal well behaved dog). I don't think most people have that skill/determination, I certainly don't.

I have to agree with jules, my experience of JRT,s including my present one is that they are just not naturally good with cats - the breeding of chasing is too strong to be overcome. It may work but I wouldn't risk it. I would go for a more placid and biddable breed.

[garner]

I have three cats that were here first before my two dogs.The terriers were puppies when we got them and once the cats put mick and peggy in their place peace has prevailed.Mind you, when the dogs are out in our garden they do not allow any other strange cats in it.

[lankeela]

Not a problem as you have got the cats first. A puppy will soon get used to them, although their noses will be put out of joint for a while till they let the puppy know who is boss.

[the arab]

hi lankeeeela my puppy likes watching billy eliot! cool huh? if you ask me cats are a waste of space. dogs rule!

[tiggerblue10]

Thought you were supposed to be going to bed arab!?