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German Shepherd and Kitten Play
Here’s a cute clip of a German Shepherd dog playing with a cat.
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German Shepherd dogs are generally very gentle and kind.
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Can a large three year old German Shepherd dog and a small three month old kitten get along, play, and bond together? Can they become lifelong friends?
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A big German Shepherd and a small kitten can coexist, spend time together, and even form a loving bond. This is only true, however, if the German Shepherd and the kitten have compatible personalities, as well as how the German Shepherd is introduced to the kitten. Here are tips and factors that can encourage positive interactions:
German Shepherd’s Character
As it is known, German Shepherds are intelligent, loyal, and protective. With the right socialization, German Shepherds are gentle and affectionate with smaller animals.
Unlike other domestic pets, German Shepherds are much stronger both in size and in the prey-driven instincts that they have inherited. Because of this, they may see a kitten as something to chase and attack. Moreover, proper introductions and supervision must always be maintained.
Kitten’s Character
Kittens are active, playful, and inquisitive but might be frightened by the large German Shepherd. However, an energetic and big German Shepherd might intimidate them, too.
Confident kittens that have been socialized extensively are better equipped to handle big German Shepherds, especially if the dog is generally gentle.
Is There Room for Rough Play?
Yes, with adequate supervision. Even without any intention of hurting the kitten, the German Shepherd’s size and activity level may easily overpower it.
As the kitten and dog become familiar with one another, they will naturally carve out their preferred way of playing together. However, close oversight remains critical during their early interactions.
Are They Able To Show Affection Toward One Another?
Most German Shepherds are quite protective and caring. If they spot the kitten as part of their ‘pack,’ it can grow stronger over time so that they can become very affectionate to each other.
Common examples of affection usually include grooming each other, sleeping close, and playful interactions.
Suggestions To Introduce Both Animals Effectively
Always remember that slow integration is the best way to go.
Let them catch a glimpse and sniff each other from a distance. A baby gate or crate may facilitate these initial interactions and provide safety.
Incrementally extend their time together as they acclimatize.
Oversight during interaction:
- You should always supervise their sessions together until you feel confident that the German Shepherd knows how to be gentle with the kitten.
- In addition, the dog should be rewarded for calm, non-aggressive behavior and the new environment with treats.
Set Limits
Restrict the German Shepherd by teaching it basic commands such as sit, stay, and gentle so it does not get too rough with the kitten.
Safe spaces should also be provided for the kitten, such as high perches or rooms out of the dog’s reach.
Supervise Play
The kitten may fall prey to the aggression of the German Shepherd or might be ‘mouthed’ too roughly. Hence, supervision is very crucial.
Suppose you find the kitten anxious or overwhelmed. In that case, it is best to separate it and try again later in a calm environment.
The Golden Rule Is Patience
Remember that, at best, the German Shepherd and kitten can take months to get used to one another. Do not forget the importance of patience in combination with effort.
Lifelong Relationship Development
With adequate supervision, training, and patience, many German Shepherds and kittens can become best buddies for life. These animals can often be seen cuddling, playing gently, or watching each other’s backs. Still, the unique character traits of both animals should be understood, and one should never force contact when one of them is afraid or feeling uneasy.
So, if your plan is to adopt a German Shepherd with a kitten or the other way around, use these tips in your observation to help you achieve a positive outcome.
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