Worried: Will a German Shorthaired Pointer puppy harm my existing cat?

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Rottweilers are big dogs and can be friendly but can also be quite aggressive. They are best with people that are used to dogs and able to do training and have a firm hand. Rottweilers are unfortunately prone to osteosarcomas (bone cancer). Shedding is minimal. German Short-haired Pointers are very very active dogs that require large amounts of attention and activity otherwise they are prone to behavioural problems. They are medium sized and shed a moderate amount. They are relatively healthy. I think that these puppies are likely good for people that are ready to put a lot of time and effort and energy into their dog, but likely would be wonderful dogs to owners that spend time with them. They will likely be larger sized and very strong. Best of luck!

If you are seeking a dog specifically to bark at strangers, your best bet would be not to introduce him to others outside of your immediate family. If you allow him to mingle with lots of other animals and people, he will likely become a well adjusted dog that gets along with most people. German Shepherds are definitely known for their protectiveness, especially towards their family and property. Unfortunately they are also known for their neurotic behavior and destructiveness when not given an appropriate job. Because of their high level of intelligence, German Shepherds tend to do better when they have a purpose. Oscar might benefit from some training in some type of dog related activity. German Shepherds are known for their acumen in Schutzhund. I would suggest you watch some videos online about this, and see if it is something you are interested in pursuing with your dog.

I'm so glad you and Bruno have a strong bond! I don't think it's a definite that he and another dog will fight when the puppy grows up. However, I would recommend that you introduce them carefully and slowly, and always monitor their interactions until you are certain that Bruno isn't going to play too rough with the puppy. In addition, I would consider having Bruno neutered, as testosterone increases aggressive tendencies and can certainly contribute to dog-on-dog aggression in some cases.

It is normal for puppies to be a nuisance to older dogs, as they try to mimic the rough-and-tumble play they had with their littermates. It is also normal for the older dog to say "enough is enough . . . leave me alone!" There shouldn't be a problem, and GSDs can certainly get along with small dogs. If you see any signs of true aggression, as opposed to the mock-fighting of play, then it is time to worry. Whether Kal seems aggressive or not, once he is three-four months old, enroll him in a good basic obedience class, so that you can learn to handle him (and he can learn to do as he's told) before he gets too big.

Hi there. I'm sorry to tell you this but Huskies are notorious for killing cats. It is unfortunately in their nature to chase and kill things that run from them....... This is going to be VERY difficult. If Villian did not run from him there may be a chance of getting some resolution but if Villain is scared (which is understandable) and he runs, the higher the chance your dog will eventually catch and kill him. I'm not trying to freak you out but I want you to be realistic. They are not a breed known to be good with cats or even small dogs. Of course there are some that are fine but if you have to play the odds.......most are not. That being said I feel like your only real shot is to have a dog trainer come to your house, assess the situation with all the family members and pets and then hopefully they can help you try to modify your dog's behavior and response to the cat. I will tell you, instinct is a hard thing to overcome. I recommend you try BarkBusters. They are really good. I don't think there is a trainer right in your city but call/email them anyway and see if they can help you or recommend someone in your area that can. http://www.barkbusters.com/dog-training-pennsylvania-experts You can also try UPenn Behavior service. They are not close to you but sometimes they do phone consults or Skype. https://www.vet.upenn.edu/veterinary-hospitals/ryan-veterinary-hospital/services/behaviormedicine This is a veterinary behaviorist you could also try calling for advice: http://www.reisnervetbehavior.com/ Remember, this is not going to be a quick fix. This is going to take a lot of money, dedication and time. This is a very tough issue. I hope this helps. Best wishes to you guys!

Hi Ollie! There isn't really one specific breed that's best with cats, although I'm very partial to Golden Retrievers. It's more how you introduce them, allow them to get to know each other slowly, and not let the puppy chase the cat. I can give you a method for introducing to cause the least stress to your cat. Best of luck. 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 cat has 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 cat and a DAP for your puppy. These are pheromone diffusers that help with anxiety and should also help ease the transition. Once both pets seem relaxed with the current situation, swap rooms placing the cat 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 cat while she is in a cat carrier or on the other side of a baby gate. Reward the puppy for being calm and quiet near the cat. Once they seem comfortable with each other, the baby gate can be taken away. Make sure your cat has a cat tree where he can escape from the puppy as needed, and don't allow the puppy to chase the cat.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I would allow the cats to safely sniff and see the puppy through a baby gate for 2 weeks. Then when you let them interact the puppy should be on a leash 100% of the time so you can control him. The cats should have a safe place (cat tree, a room with a cat door only then can fit through) to be able to escape from the puppy. If the puppy shows any form of aggression towards the cats he should never be allowed to be alone with the cats and off a leash in the house. That means he is crated when you are not home. Hopefully since Moose is young the will be easy to teach and the cats will put him in his place! Good luck!