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Why Are Dogs Better Than Cats?

Introduction

Are dogs better pets than cats? It’s the age-old debate that’s divided the population into dog people and cat people. At the end of the day, it all comes down to what you personally want from a companion. There’s also nothing to say that you can’t love both equally!

Here at Ruff Roaming though, we’re obviously inclined to side with our canine companions in arguments like this. With that in mind, here’s our list of reasons why we think dogs are better than cats.

Loyalty

The title of “Man’s Best Friend” is a well earned one. Dogs are famous for their unwavering loyalty to their human companions. Just think of all the heart-warming videos you’ve seen of dogs being reunited with their owners after months or even years of separation. The outpouring of emotion on display is indicative of the deep bonds forged between dogs and their owners.

Research also supports the profound emotional connection between humans and dogs. Studies indicate that interactions with dogs elevate oxytocin “commonly known as the “love hormone” levels in both dogs and people. This surge in oxytocin fosters a sense of trust and emotional connection, further solidifying the bond between dogs and their owners.

While cats can be affectionate in their own right, their independence often takes centre stage. Unlike dogs, they may not consistently seek out human companionship or express the same level of attachment. Cats have a distinct charm, and their more autonomous nature may appeal to individuals seeking a less demanding relationship with their pets.

Versatility

Dogs’ remarkable adaptability and enthusiasm for various activities make them stand out as versatile companions. Whether it’s participating in agility courses, accompanying you on hikes, or engaging in interactive play, dogs thrive on being active members of the family. Their eagerness to learn and please makes training them for different tasks an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Here at Ruff Roaming we focus on venturing into the great outdoors with your four-legged friends, but dogs can still make great companions for those who can’t or don’t want to do this. A lot of this versatility is down to the vast range of breeds out there. The daily activity level of your average border collie will be much different to those of the average chihuahua for instance.

Cats, while playful and agile, may not match the same level of versatility as dogs. Their independent nature may lead them to engage in solo play or enjoy activities like chasing toys. However, the range of activities that actively involve their human counterparts is generally more limited compared to dogs. Put it this way – I’ve never seen a cat on a hike!

Trainability

One undeniable advantage of dogs is their trainability. Dogs are intelligent animals that quickly pick up on commands and cues. Whether it’s basic obedience training, complex tricks, or specialized tasks, dogs showcase a remarkable ability to learn and retain information. The joy they derive from pleasing their owners further motivates them to excel in training.

This trainability extends beyond specific tasks; it also enhances the overall relationship between a dog and its owner. The communication established through training fosters mutual understanding and strengthens the bond.

Cats, on the other hand, have a reputation for independence that can translate into less responsiveness to training. While some cats can learn basic commands or tricks, their inclination to do so may vary widely. The independent streak in cats can make them less eager to please or follow specific instructions, leading to a different dynamic in the owner-pet relationship.

Protection

Dogs have long been recognized as natural protectors and guardians. Many dog breeds are inherently territorial and possess protective instincts. Whether it’s a small dog with a big bark or a larger breed trained for protection, the presence of a dog can provide a sense of security, especially if you normally live alone.

Dogs can be an effective deterrent to would-be thieves even if they aren’t specifically trained to be protection dogs. In our case, Flynn barks loudly any time a stranger approaches the door, giving the impression that the house is well protected (never mind the fact that he turns into a massive softy as soon as they come in)!

While some cats may exhibit protective behaviours, their role in providing security is generally more limited compared to dogs. Cats may alert you to unusual sounds or movements, but their smaller size and less assertive demeanour make them less imposing as protectors.

Health Benefits

Owning a dog brings a myriad of health benefits, both physical and emotional. The regular exercise involved in walking, playing, or running with your dog contributes to a healthier lifestyle for pet owners. The companionship and unconditional love provided by dogs have been linked to reduced stress levels, lower blood pressure, and improved mental well-being.

You definitely won’t struggle to get your daily steps in when you own a dog, especially if you enjoy going on long hikes with them like we do. Our problem is though that we usually end up in a pub after the hike for food and beer! At least we can say we’ve earned it.

While the health benefits of dog ownership are well-documented, cat owners also experience positive impacts on their well-being. The calming presence of a purring cat, the joy derived from play, and the companionship offered by feline friends contribute to a sense of emotional well-being.

However, a cat doesn’t need their owner to fulfil their physical exercise needs in the same way that a dog does. Consequently, a cat owner doesn’t need to undertake the same amount of physical activity that a dog owner does when exercising their pet.

Conclusion

While both dogs and cats bring joy, companionship, and unique qualities to our lives, the focus here has been on celebrating the exceptional attributes that make dogs pawsitively perfect companions. From their unwavering loyalty and social companionship to versatility in activities, trainability, protection, and health benefits, dogs offer a holistic and enriching experience for their owner.