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View 2 More +Miniature Schnauzers are among the most affectionate and sociable of any dog—particularly among the Schnauzer breeds. They get along well with adults, children, and other dogs, but do they get along with cats? It depends on their early socialization, training, and individual temperaments.
About the Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are a result of breeding down Standard Schnauzers to create a smaller version of the popular guard dog breed for ratting and herding. Some of the breeds that were crossbred to create a smaller Schnauzer include the Affenpinscher and Miniature Poodle.
Though the Miniature Schnauzer belongs to the Terrier Group because of its ratter background, it does not share ancestry with Great Britain Terriers. Miniature Schnauzers are more obedient, laid-back, and friendly than terriers.
That said, Miniature Schnauzers do share one thing in common with terriers—an extremely high prey drive. This trait makes them great at hunting rats and other pests but can present problems in homes with other small animals like cats.
Do Miniature Schnauzers Get Along With Cats?
Because of their rodent-hunting background and in-bred traits, Miniature Schnauzers will always have a natural instinct to hunt small animals like rats, mice, and birds. Cats are small and both predator and prey, depending on the situation. They also move like prey, giving dogs a good chase.
With proper training and socialization, many Miniature Schnauzers can get along with cats just fine. It depends on the personality of the individual dog, but Miniature Schnauzers that are raised around cats from puppyhood are more likely to recognize a cat as a household companion rather than prey to hunt and chase.
How to Socialize Your Miniature Schnauzer With Cats
It’s easiest to get a Miniature Schnauzer used to cats if it is raised around them. Some rescue Schnauzers may come from a household with cats, but you can also teach a puppy to accept a cat from a young age.
Your Miniature Schnauzer and cat should be introduced slowly. If you’re already crate training your puppy, that will make introductions easier. When your pup is out of the crate, make sure it’s on a leash for safety.
When your puppy and cat interact appropriately, as in no growling, hissing, swatting, or snapping, offer a treat to both. They’ll begin to associate each other with good things.
Keep the interactions short and sweet. If you do see signs of defensiveness or aggression, end the session, simply separate them, and give them a “time out”. Try again at another time. It’s easier to prevent the situation from escalating than to address it once a behavior like chasing begins.
Remember, there’s a risk to both the cat and the dog in this scenario. A cat has sharp teeth and claws that can hurt a puppy if it gets defensive. Likewise, a juvenile or adult Miniature Schnauzer can seriously injure or kill a cat. Always supervise interactions between your dog and cat.
In Conclusion
Miniature Schnauzers are sociable dogs that enjoy spending time with all family members, human and pet alike, but cats can activate their naturally high prey drive. Fortunately, you can train your Miniature Schnauzer to accept your cat with positive training and careful interactions.
Featured Image Credit: Anastasiya Tsiasemnikava, Shutterstock
