Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My Jack Russell Terrier chases cats. How to introduce them safely?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Female | spayed | 1 year old | 11 lbs

How can I get my 1 yo Jack Russell Terier to get used to our cats? I know they love chasing things so don't want to in courage the natural instinct. I've tried introducing them multiple times and my dog gets over excited and just wants to go for the cats. The cats however just growl at him, but are also curious.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Juliana, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 23rd, 2017

Jack Russell terriers do love chasing things! But with training, many can live harmoniously with cats. I would work on solid basic obedience with soekie first- So she reliably responds to basic commands like sit, down and wait. And I d exercise her away from the cats a lot! Then when you introduce her to the cats do it at a time when soekie has burned a lot of energy prior, out playing/running/ fetching etc. keep soekie on a leash so the cats are safe and give soekie commands like sit or down when the cats are close so she re focuses her attention to what your asking her rather than being too focused on cats. When she listens to you give her lots of treats and positive reinforcement. When she is able to focus well on you and relax in presence of cats you can try this same thing with her leash on but just dragging behind her- so you can grab it if neccessary to keep cats safe. Also reward her when she relaxes her body language around the cats. Do short sessions and end while things are still going well. Hope this is a good starting place for you. Let us know if you have more specific questions that come up!

Vote icon

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What to do if my cat has a small hole with pus coming from its ear?
Is your cat's ear hole oozing pus? A Petco vet explains potential infections like abscesses from bites, advising immediate vet care, antibiotics, and recovery.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My male dog's penis is stuck out and his scrotum has a painful rash.
Is your 11-year-old male dog experiencing a painful penis or rash? A certified vet explains potential paraphimosis urgency and why immediate care is vital.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?
Dog food protein's biological value & digestibility: A vet explains why data is complex. Learn to judge quality by company reputation and your dog's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored