Can we have a dog too?

[LazySusan11]

We're thinking about getting a dog from our local rescue centre, we have 2 cats that are pretty docile not big on cuddles and do their own thing.

We obviously would never want to cause either our cats or a potential new family member any stress.

With that in mind is there a particular breed that is better with cats? We know that if we get a rescue it would need to be ok with cats and we would prefer a smaller dog but again it depends on what dogs are at our local centre.

How do we introduce a dog to our cats?

I've never had dogs and cats, so can't help. I've always wanted to have a dog, but don't want to put my cats & me through the stress of it all. I have known cat and dog households and they have worked. There must be a way to introduce them very successfully from the beginning. Someone will be along soon to help you.

I have two cats and two dogs, who are rescue lurchers. My advice would be not introducing them to each other, but just letting things happen. People think they need to show the cats to the dogs, or bring them together, but that just makes the cat more interesting. Accept that the cats will sulk for a bit. Make sure your cats have safe spaces, so we have a baby gate on the kitchen so they can eat in peace and go in and out of their catflap away from the dogs, and to begin with always make sure your dogs can't get to the cats when you are out.

We have a springer spaniel who is wonderful with our 2 cats and all children, pinchy, poke her in the eye babies included!
We've always had Springers and can't recommend enough. People might try and tell you they are crazy but to me they are just clever and lively. With the right families they make the very best companions.