Cats and Puppies: How to Help Them Live in Peace

Just the other day, I came across an article about someone seeking a new home for their mother’s six-month-old border collie puppy. The puppy had a penchant for chasing chickens, even killing them, and couldn’t leave the cats alone in the house. I was shocked because unless you have an elderly, sick, or otherwise physically incapable sheepdog, these puppies will inevitably chase. That’s what they’re bred for! Every shepherd is bred to ‘shepherd’ and herd, so when something moves, it needs to be chased.
 
Now, let’s talk about our household. We have two indoor-outdoor cats. Whenever we bring a White Shepherd puppy into our home, the same scenario unfolds: ‘Cats are fun and need to be chased and herded.’ This is no different with puppy number six, Sien. Even Evie, who is now 22 months old, still isn’t always gentle with the cats.

Evie playing rough with Julie

So, I’ve decided to write a blog post about how to help them live in peace. With patience and the right approach, they can learn to coexist peacefully—and even become friends. We have living proof of this here at Sunnyside.
 
Start Slow
Let them smell each other first—swap blankets or use a gate for safe viewing. Keep early meetings short, calm, and supervised. Reward both pets for good behavior.
Give the Cat Space
Cats need places to escape. Use shelves, cat trees, or a room the puppy can’t access. It helps your cat feel safe and in control.
Train the Puppy
Teach basic commands like “sit” and “leave it.” A calm puppy helps the cat relax. Interrupt overly excited behavior early on.
Watch Body Language
A wagging tail doesn’t always mean friendly. Look for signs of stress: hissing, pinned ears, growling, or lunging. Step in before things escalate.
Supervise
Don’t leave cat and dog unattended, especially the first couple of months. If you can’t supervise, make sure they can’t get together by putting the puppy in her crate for the time being and/or locking the cat in a separate room and/or putting it outside.
Separate Resources
Provide separate food bowls, beds, toys, and (of course) the litter box. This reduces competition and tension.
Let the Bond Grow
Not all pets will cuddle, and that’s fine. Respect grows over time. Some just coexist peacefully—others form real friendships.
Conclusion:
With time, structure, and love, cats and puppies can thrive together. Go slow, be patient, and celebrate small steps toward harmony.

Jessie & Julie living in harmony