Dogs and cats can live in the same space in perfect harmony, but there are times when your dog can feel excessively stimulated and wants to chase him. Obviously, your cat won't like it too much!
It is very important to interrupt this behavior right at the moment it occurs because it could cause a great distaste to the cat, even if the dog did not have bad intentions. In addition, your cat will interpret it as a predatory behavior and will want to hide in order to feel safe.
But don't be afraid because this behavior can be controlled. In this article we will review the reasons why your dog chases your cat, how to make your dog stop chasing him, and what to do if he does not stop doing so. Why do dogs chase cats? When a dog chases a cat it is usually because it follows its instincts, especially if your dog is of a breed that is usually used to stay in prey or as a shepherd. Other times you may just want to play, and chase the cat almost the same way you would with a ball we would have thrown at him.
It is true that dogs have a powerful hunting instinct and that any movement can fire it. However, there are cases in which dogs and cats live together for years without persecution and suddenly develop instinct. The important thing is to prevent your dog from catching the cat as soon as you observe this behavior. Dogs should see cats as partners, not as toys.
Step-by-step guide to control your dog's hunting instinct It is much easier to train your dog when he is a puppy because you can socialize it so that he understands that cat chasing is unacceptable behavior.
- If your cat feels comfortable in a carrier, insert it into it and place the carrier in a room (when the puppy is not there). Make sure he has his toys and some catnip to keep him entertained.
- Approach the puppy. The puppy will be immediately intrigued by the presence of the cat. Try to sniff it and pinch it. Try to get your dog's attention every time he approaches the cat. If he looks at you, treat him with a prize.
- The goal is to repeat this routine every time your dog looks at the cat (it is not necessary to be approaching him). Every time you look at the cat, call him by his name and give him a prize when he gets close to you. This will reinforce the idea that it should not disturb the cat.
- Release the cat (if it is safe to do so) and try again. If your dog insists on approaching the cat, call him by his name and reward his obedience with a prize. If he doesn't, tell him to stop using a firm tone of voice, take the cat out of the room and try again later. Over time he will learn the behavior and will not chase the cat.
Sometimes, however, your dog develops this hunting and hunting instinct at more advanced ages. In these cases it may be necessary to have a more detailed plan to try to stop your dog from chasing your cat.
- If your dog detects the cat, it catches its attention immediately. Stop doing what you have in hand to make sure it comes to you when you call. It is important because the goal is to stop the persecution before it begins. Distracting your dog will always be a good way to set limits.
- Each time your dog detects the cat, repeat the same action. Use orders if you had already taught them before, such as 'still' or 'let go'.
- If your dog starts chasing your cat, it is important that you interrupt him. Follow the dog and use verbal orders that prove your disapproval. The severe tone of your voice should convey the idea that chasing a cat is not an approved behavior and should stop instantly.
If this method does not stop you from chasing the cat, you may need to use a different method.
- Attach your dog with an adjustable length leash. Make sure you have a good grip on the strap or that you can access it easily. Have a prize at hand.
- When your dog looks at the cat, it catches his attention. If he comes to you, give him a prize.
- Repeat this behavior every time your dog looks at the cat. The leash allows you to ensure that your cat can move freely without being hit by the dog and will allow you to better control the dog in case it does not obey your orders.
- Over time, your dog will start looking at you automatically whenever the cat is close to him. At this point you can lengthen the strap and let it move a little more.
- If you start chasing it, use the short strap again to control it. If he hears you, give him a prize.
- Once the dog shows little or no interest in the cat when it is close to him and with the long leash, release it so he can move freely with the cat.
Remember that a good amount of rewards for good behavior will help you reach the goal and make your dog stop chasing your cat.
What to do if you keep chasing it?
If your dog does not stop chasing cats, it may be necessary to reconsider if there may be new factors in his life that have led him to this. For example, do you exercise enough? If not, you may be trying to use your extra energy chasing the cat around the house. Try to take it for longer and more intense walks.
If this does not work, consider taking your dog to a trainer or a veterinarian specializing in canine behavior. These professionals can identify the problem and solve it. Occasionally, changes in behavior are given by diseases. If you are concerned about this issue, take it to the veterinarian to ensure the absence of problems.
Step 2: Exercise
For your dog to be a balanced animal You should have your good dose of exercise every day. It is convenient that you take him out for a walk, run or play with the ball for at least half an hour, two or three times a day. This way you will ensure that your dog releases its energies and is tired and calm at home.
Step 4: Gather the animals progressively
Your dog will already be somewhat trained and balanced because of the exercise, therefore it is time to introduce the cat again. To start you just have to open the door that separates them a little, but taking care that there is not enough place for them to pass. Leave the door for a couple of days, so that they have the opportunity to smell and hear each other, but without having direct contact.
If you see the two days go by and there are no signs of aggression, you can bring the two animals together. To do this you will have to put the leash on your dog and enter the cat's room. You will only do so if the dog is calm and does not pull on the leash.
During the meeting give them treats and treat your pets with love. Never challenge him or yell at him because that way he won't understand if he misbehaves. Do not remove the leash, just be there for a little while and come out again. Repeat the procedure a few days and you will see that the attacks will not be repeated.
Extra tips
- One of the best things you can do to stop your dog from attacking your cat it is to castrate or sterilize it, because that way the instinct of aggression and fighting will be diminished.
- Punishing your dog every time it attacks your cat will only cause the behavior to repeat itself.
- Ask a dog trainer for help if you can't teach him the commands or if you prefer an expert on the subject.
- By following all these steps and these tips, you can make your dog leave your cat alone once and for all.
Follow these tips and very soon you dog and cat They will have a better relationship.
