Do Labradoodles Get Along with Cats? Socialization & Introduction Tips
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Labradoodles are known for being sweet, loving, and friendly. However, if you’re a cat owner bringing home a Labradoodle or bringing a cat into a home where you already have a Labradoodle as a pet, you might be a bit concerned. Many pet owners wonder if Labradoodles and cats can get along. The answer is yes.
It’s essential to remember that every dog is different, as is every cat, so though we say they get along, it will depend on how well-socialized and trained both of the animals in question are. If you’re considering putting a Labradoodle and cat in the same house, keep reading for some information you might want to consider.
Do Labradoodles Get Along with Cats?
All dogs of one breed will not behave the same, but some dogs are likelier to get along with cats. Luckily the Labradoodle is one of those breeds. The Labradoodle’s kind and gentle nature makes it an excellent pick for living with cats.
What Can You Do to Help Your Cat and Labradoodle Get Along?
The most crucial step is the introduction. The cat and dog should be separated initially, and you should introduce the animals gradually to prevent confrontations. All dogs should be socialized when they’re young so that when they’re older, they’re used to strangers and other animals.
If You’re Getting a Labradoodle Puppy
The first step after getting a Labradoodle puppy is to introduce them to your cat in a controlled environment; your cat’s reaction will tell you everything you need to know. Most Labradoodle puppies love to socialize and will get along with a cat. But you must ensure your cat is comfortable, or they might snap at the puppy.
Set up your cat’s bed in another room with its toys and food nearby in case it wants to escape the puppy when it becomes too excited. If you see your cat getting uncomfortable, stop them from interacting and try again the next day. When the puppy and cat interact without issues, reward them with treats.
If You’re Getting a Grown Labradoodle
If you’re adopting a grown Labradoodle, you can ask the breeder or shelter staff if they know about the dog’s history. Finding a shelter dog’s history is difficult, but it can help you determine how it reacts to other species.
As with the puppy, you need to introduce the cat in a controlled environment, but the difference here is that you need to worry about the cat instead of the dog. Hold the dog on a leash on one side of the room and have the cat on the other. Judge their reactions, and if it’s negative, keep them apart and bring them closer gradually as they improve. If they react positively, you can go ahead and give your dog a bit of slack.
As before, make sure the cat doesn’t get uncomfortable because if they try to run, your dog might chase them. Most Labradoodles don’t chase cats, but you can never be too careful. Over enough time, your cat and Labradoodle will become more comfortable, and you can let the dog off the leash.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, in most cases, Labradoodles get along famously with cats and other animals. It is important to socialize and train both the dog and the cat immediately for the best results. Labradoodles are kind, gentle, and loving, so they won’t strike out at your cat unless they are provoked.
Remember, however, if you’re going to take on the responsibility of having both of these animals in your home, you need to keep an eye on them when they play, just to be on the safe side, as you would with any other pets in your household.
Featured Image Credit: sophiecat, Shutterstock
