Today I had 2 clients that had trouble with cats. Cats teasing the dog, dogs chasing the cats. Intense starting at cats and inability to relax when they are around. One dog was a boxer, the other was a Carolina mix.In both incidences it was obvious that the cats needed to be conditioned to the dogs just as much as the dogs need to be conditioned to them. I recommended desensitization, new house rules, games to take the extra spring out of the dog, bite control games as well as a few other situational helpers.
I love how quickly the dogs cling to a new routine, order and rules. It really makes them feel safe and secure. They know now that all they need to do is listen learn and repeat that behavior for constant positive attention. They get calmer, tired quicker and learn to self soothe. These dogs are smarter than we think people.
