Can a Mini American Shepherd puppy safely get along with cats?

Question

Will a mini american shepherd get along with to cats if he/she meets them younger? Will it be dangerous? Thank you. Pet's info: Dog | Miniature American Shepherd | Male

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

Yes, a mini American Shepherd can get along with cats if they are introduced to them properly. I will give you a method on how to do this, and they can get along well without problems. Introducing a new puppy to cats: Introducing them should be done slowly. When you first bring your puppy home, I would keep them in rooms separated by a door. This way, they can get used to the smells and sounds of each other without contact. Make sure your cats have a litter box, food, and water in their room. You can also place a blanket with the puppy's smell in the cat's room, and a blanket with the cat's smell in the puppy's room. I would also consider get a Feliway for your cats and a DAP for your puppy. These are pheromone diffusers that help with anxiety and should also help ease the transition. Once all the pets seem relaxed with the current situation, swap rooms placing the cats in the puppy's room and vice versa. You can do this switch several times over the course of the introductions. Once they are both comfortable with the smells of each other, it's time for them to meet face to face. I would introduce the puppy on a leash to the cats while they are in a cat carrier or on the other side of a baby gate. Reward the puppy for being calm and quiet near the cats. Once they seem comfortable with each other, the baby gate can be taken away. Make sure your cats have a cat tree where he can escape from the puppy as needed, and don't allow the puppy to chase the cats.

Can a Mini American Shepherd puppy safely get along with cats?

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