by Nancy Kellough
(Bainbridge, OH)
I”m getting my second rottweiler, a puppy this time and I already have a cat.
My other rottweiler blended well with the cat with no problems, in fact she gave the cat baths. I just want to be able to introduce them correctly the first time so there will be no long term problems.
The puppy will be 8 – 10 weeks old when I get her. The breeder does not have cats so I know she has not seem them yet.
Any advice you can give would be greatly appreciated. I have read all your different links and your information is phenomenal.
Hi Nancy
Congratulations on the upcoming arrival of your new Rottweiler puppy 🙂
As he’s young, this little guy shouldn’t have any difficulty accepting the cat as a part of his new family in the long term, but being a puppy he is likely to want to investigate this new creature… and probably chase it!
In my experience the cats usually get the upper hand pretty quickly, and given their agility and ability to jump and climb, he/she will likely be able to keep out of the puppy’s way until he’s got over his excitement about her.
However, it is important that you correct your pup if he decides to chase the cat, a firm ‘no’ and a redirection of attention should be enough – but it’s something you’ll need to do over and over again most likely.
I’d also recommend making sure the cat has access to areas of the house that the puppy doesn’t so that she can make her getaway easily, or observe the new family member from a distance and in safety. I use stair gates to keep the a puppy’s movements limited to one or two rooms, cats can hop over the gates no problem.
When raised with cats or other small pets Rottweilers do just fine, and are usually very gentle with them. Puppies are endlessly curious, very active and a bit clumsy so the first few weeks may be a bit lively in your home (your older dog may find a rambunctious puppy a bit of a trial at first too!), but given a little time I’m sure it will all settle down happily.
I hope this helps and am happy to know that you’ve found my website useful. Lots of luck with your new puppy.
