Forget the cartoons. Dogs and cats can learn to live together peacefully under the right circumstances. It’s easier to introduce puppies and kittens, since they’re both young and haven’t yet had bad experiences with the other species. But even older dogs and cats can learn to tolerate—if not relish—one another’s company.

Never allow your dog to approach the cat.
Even if your dog just wants to be friends, your cat will only allow so much sniffing before she retaliates with her feline heels. Dogs like to chase small creatures; it’s part of their hunting nature. So try to keep your dog in a down/stay position whenever your cat is in the room. That way your dog is under control, and your cat can gain some confidence.

Keep your dog on leash.
If you do not yet have verbal control over your dog, keep him on a leash until you can effectively tell him “No!” That way, you can stop him easily if he starts stalking the cat.

Stay in control.
Use a squirt bottle to douse your doggie should he pester your cat. And praise him as soon as he stops chasing the cat around. If you can’t get a handle on your dog’s behaviour, a quality training class can put you back in the driver’s seat.
 
Let your cat approach the dog.
By all means, allow your cat to walk up and investigate her canine cohort, but watch over them with care. Once calm persists, your cat will gain trust in you and your dog, and believe that she is safe in his company. She’ll even begin to realize that sharing the house with your pooch (who is not allowed to chase her) isn’t so bad after all.

Keep them separated when you’re not at home.
Until you’re sure that your dog won’t chase your cat, do not leave them on their own. Either put your cat in a room—with the door closed—or place your dog in his own space, such as a crate.

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