The lives of cats and dogs can be a challenge. Even if the cat does not seem to be opposed to the behavior of your pup, it is vital to ensure that your dog’s companion does not pursue the cat. They shouldn’t be left alone without supervision. Baby gates can prevent your dog from gaining access to certain areas. If your puppy is over-stimulated and doesn’t quit the fight, place your dog in a way out of his crate. However, he should be given treats so he will not form a negative relationship with the cage.
Being able to manage the situation now is the most effective option. Dogs don’t understand when it is enough, and you must be able to monitor your puppy to stop him from the habit of chasing, biting, or latching. At some point, he’s likely to get over this offensive behavior.
Picking a puppy up with the collar or scruff isn’t safe, efficient, or practical. It could encourage him to pursue the cat. The puppy must learn what you would like to get him to do instead. Use an item of high value or a toy, and when he turns away from your cat, be sure to reward him and praise him.
How can we stop dogs from chasing the cat to manage
Management involves arranging the surroundings to avoid the behavior. It is ideal to do this at the beginning; your dog will never have the chance to misbehave, and your cat won’t have to suffer the consequences! The prevention of inappropriate behavior is crucial because cat-chasing is an unselfish-reinforcing habit that the cat reinforces (i.e., the more your cat chases, the more likely it is for him to repeat the behavior). Therefore, if you’re planning to introduce the first cat or dog to your home, you should go through the guide “How to Introduce a Dog to a Cat.”
If, at any point during the process of introduction, when the dog barks, is focused on the cat, or attempts to chase the cat, you must remove your dog from the area to ensure that he does not continue to engage in unacceptable behavior. This is also true for dogs with an instinct to chase the cat. Find a peaceful space (a bathroom or a crate such) or a space that your dog is already accustomed to positive things and in which you can bring your dog to enjoy.
Redirect the Behavior
You have the best chance to stop aggressive behavior when you recognize it early and then redirect it.2 If dogs find out they are awed by cats, their behavior could be difficult to reverse. Therefore, try to stop it before it gets out of hand. If your cat tries to leap at you or pursue your pet, you can tell your cat “no” and put him in a separate room for a short period.
If you spot your dog focusing on your cat, turn your focus immediately. You can tell him to get up or go away. If he does what he is told to do and does what you ask, give him kudos and reward him with treats. If your cat is calm around your cat from the start, you can reward him for that as well. In time, you’ll be able to offer him a longer leash. Be sure that your cat has the means to escape to safety in the event. Think about using cat condos, cat trees, tall furniture, and cat shelves for escape routes.
Wear Your Puppy Out
Puppy dogs seem to have endless energy; however, the more you wear your puppy, the less likely it is that he will look for and frighten your cats. There are many ways to exhaust your puppy; however, one of the most effective is stimulating your mind.
The stimulation of the mind is an essential element of your pet’s development. It can also assist in keeping the animal from becoming bored and developing bad habits. A few ways you can keep their minds engaged include:
- Puppy training classes
- Puppy socialization classes
- Teach techniques
- Games and food as rewards
- A wide range of toys to choose from, including puzzle toys with his favorite snacks. He will have to find out how to get those sweets out, which can keep him busy for a long time!
Why Do Puppies Chase Cats?
A majority of dogs feel the need to chase cats unless they are trained to discourage them. Terriers that are herding are especially attracted to chasing due to their nature. They’ve been designed to do. Rapid movements like those of a cat fleeing can trigger their instinctual predatory instinct to chase. Cats run away when chased and continue to perpetuate the issue. The good news is that most puppies can be taught to accept cats, and both species come to peace.
Separate Them
The habit of yelling at your cat and playing with them is a habit that you’ll have to end to ensure that your feline companions will ever find peace. The first thing to do is keep your pet from your cats whenever possible when you’re not in the vicinity, to supervise. It is because chasing and jumping onto your cat is part of their prey instinct and naturally reinforces your pet’s behavior. As he does, it is more likely he will repeat the behavior repeatedly.