Dogs and cats have the potential to coexist harmoniously, but occasional tensions may arise due to their inherent differences. Dogs are social animals that thrive on companionship, while cats are independent hunters who value their solitude. Dogs typically engage in playful behavior, such as chasing, which can be misinterpreted by cats as a potential threat.
Why do dogs chase cats?
When dogs chase cats, it is often due to their innate instincts, especially if the dog belongs to a breed historically bred for chasing or herding. In some cases, dogs may chase cats simply because they want to play, similar to how they chase after balls during a game.
Dogs are driven to chase cats due to their strong natural instinct, which is triggered by the cat's movement. However, there are instances where dogs have peacefully coexisted with cats for years before suddenly exhibiting this chasing behavior.
It is crucial to address and discourage dogs from chasing cats as soon as you observe this behavior in your own pets. Dogs should learn to see cats as companions rather than objects to be chased or treated as toys.
How to stop dogs chasing cats: a step-by-step-guide
In the picture, we see a cat sitting on its owner's lap while a dog gazes up at them. To prevent your dog from chasing cats, there are several training techniques you can master. These include gaining control over your dog's attention, ensuring reliable recall when calling your dog, and using an adjustable leash.
If you're seeking guidance on how to stop dogs from chasing cats, we have outlined two different methods below for you to consider. Training your dog is generally easier when they are a puppy, as you can effectively socialize them to understand that chasing cats is unacceptable behavior.
Method 1 - Be in control of their attention
If your cat feels comfortable in a cat crate, place them inside and position the crate in a separate room away from your puppy. Ensure that the cat has their toys to keep them entertained.
Next, bring in the puppy. The puppy will naturally be curious about the cat and may try to sniff or pester them. Whenever your puppy approaches the cat, redirect their attention towards you using commands. If the puppy looks at you, reward them with a treat.
The goal is to repeat this process each time the puppy looks at the cat (even if they don't approach them directly). Call the puppy to you whenever they glance at the cat, and when they come to you, reward them with treats. This will reinforce the idea that leaving the cat alone leads to rewards.
Once it is safe to do so, release your cat and repeat the process. If your dog continues to approach the cat, call them to you and reward them for obeying. If they persist in bothering the cat, firmly tell them to stop, remove the cat from the situation, and try again later. With time and consistent training, they will learn to leave the cat alone and cease chasing them.
In some cases, dogs may develop chasing behavior later in life. In such instances, a more detailed plan may be necessary to address and discourage the dog from chasing the cat.
Method 2 - Call the dog to you
If your dog starts chasing a cat, immediately redirect their attention to you. Interrupt your own activity and ensure they come to you when called. This is crucial to prevent the chase from escalating. Using distractions can be an effective way to establish boundaries.
Whenever your dog notices the cat, consistently apply the above technique. Employ firm commands that your dog has been trained to understand, such as "stop" or "leave it."
If your dog initiates a chase, it is essential to intervene and halt the behavior. Follow your dog and use assertive verbal commands to express your disapproval. The tone of your voice should convey the message that chasing the cat is unacceptable, and your dog should cease immediately.
If this approach fails to curb your dog's chasing behavior, you may need to explore alternative methods to address the issue.
Method 3 – Use an adjustable lead
To deter your dog from chasing the cat, consider keeping them on an adjustable-length lead while indoors. Ensure the lead is either tied to you or easily accessible. Additionally, have treats readily available.
Whenever your dog looks at the cat, redirect their attention to you by calling them. If they respond and come to you, reward them with a treat. Repeat this process each time your dog shows interest in the cat. The lead will allow your cat to move freely without the risk of being chased, and it will provide you with better control over your dog's behavior if they do not obey your commands.
Over time, your dog will start instinctively looking at you when the cat is nearby. At this stage, you can gradually lengthen the lead, allowing your dog more freedom to explore. If your dog still attempts to chase the cat, bring them back on the lead to regain control. Conversely, if they come to you when called, reward them.
Once your dog consistently shows little to no interest in chasing the cat while close to you and on a longer lead, you can allow them to roam freely alongside the cat.
Remember to reinforce good behavior with plenty of treats to reinforce the message and discourage your dog from chasing the cat.
Top 5 tips for training your dog to stop chasing cats
When training your dog to stop chasing cats, there are a few things that owners need to make sure they are avoiding. Using physical punishment or negative reinforcement will slow the process and can cause your dog to become scared of you. Here are a few tips to training.
Socialize your dog with cats from a young age:
The best way to prevent your dog from chasing cats is to socialize them with cats from a young age. This will help them learn that cats are not prey but rather companions.
Use positive reinforcement:
Reward your dog with treats or praise every time they show good behavior around cats. This positive reinforcement will encourage them to continue behaving well.
Train your dog to obey commands:
Teaching your dog basic commands like "sit," "stay," and "leave it" will help you control their behavior around cats. You can use these commands to redirect your dog's attention away from the cat.
Use a leash and/or crate:
Keeping your dog on a leash or in a crate when they are around cats can prevent them from chasing or harassing the cat. This will also give you better control over your dog's behavior.
Supervise your dog and cat interactions:
Always supervise your dog and cat when they are together. If your dog starts to chase the cat, intervene immediately and redirect their attention to something else. Consistent supervision and intervention will help your dog learn to respect the cat's boundaries.