Which companion should I get for my dog?

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Hi everyone! I'm thinking about getting a new companion for my dog, Bongo. He's just over a year old, but I don't really want a second dog as Bongo already takes up a lot of my time (with training and walks) and I couldn't manage a second one right now. (Our walks are usually with other dogs so he's really happy then, but once we're back home, he gets a bit bored; he's not that into toys, except for squeaky ones, of course!). So, I'd like to know if, in your experience, a cat (he gets along well with them) would make a good playmate at home, or maybe even a rabbit or something else? Bearing in mind I live in a flat, I can't exactly get him a pet pony haha ;)

Thanks! :)

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    • Love Animaux 19
    Love animaux 19 Icon representing the flag French
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    Brilliant! Thanks for your advice! I'm going to take some time to get them used to cats and see how they react :)

    Okay, great :)!

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    ?
    Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French
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    Brilliant! Thanks for the advice! I'm going to take my time getting them used to cats and see how they react :)

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    Energiesolaire
    Energiesolaire Icon representing the flag French
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    I adopted a cat to keep my dog company, and it all went really well.

    If you're thinking of doing the same and have any questions, feel free to ask them here.

    For now, I've just got one main bit of advice: introduce any potential new addition to your dog. So, when you go to see some kittens, take your dog along and do the introductions. That's what I did. I left my puppy in the car, picked out a kitten, and then brought it out to the car. I put it down next to the dog to see how they reacted to one another. I liked how they got on, so I went ahead with the adoption.

    Good luck!!

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ZuNOvzWpFc]

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    ProvetoJuniorConseil
    Provetojuniorconseil Icon representing the flag French
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    Hi there,

    Dogs and cats can definitely get along and keep each other company. However, you need to be careful when first introducing them: you’ll need to gradually get the cat used to the dog. In fact, dogs often frighten cats because they can be so bouncy. You’ll have to teach your dog not to pester the cat "to play", as the cat could easily get spooked. You’ll need to keep a close eye on them at first to make sure their relationship gets off to a good start.

    The best thing to do is set up some high-up spots for the cat: food bowls off the ground, a cushion on a shelf, a cat tree...

    In any case, your dog will still need plenty of socialising with other dogs, long walks and playtime, just as you’re doing now. That’s the best way for them to burn off steam.

    As for the rabbit, it’s a bit risky as dogs see them as prey. However, anything is possible with proper training; it’s really up to you.

    I hope that helps.

    Pauline

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    Love Animaux 19
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    A cat would definitely make a good companion for your dog. Contrary to popular belief, cats and dogs can get on really well. You'll need to give them some time to "get used to each other" though, and I’d be very careful at the start to make sure the dog doesn't go for the cat (or the other way round, for that matter! ^^).

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    Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French
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    Hi there, Animals are a bit like us—it’s all about the 'vibe' and how they get along. If you’re getting a kitten, do be careful. I’ve actually seen a tiny kitten die because of an adult dog before. It wasn't intentional, but things can go wrong during play and they can get injured or worse. You'd have to supervise them constantly, but there’s bound to be a moment eventually where they’re left alone... So, I’m a bit iffy about it. At the end of the day, it's down to luck and patience, because no matter what you choose, you just have to see if they actually hit it off.
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