Let them get used to each other’s scents
If possible, try to feed your kitten and dog on either side of a door, so that they can smell each other before meeting face to face. Your dog shouldn’t be allowed to whine, scratch or bark at the door, as this can be very intimidating for your new arrival.
Another way to introduce the animals to each other is to swap their blankets or a put a towels with their scents on it in each other’s bed. This will help them pick up the scent and become comfortable around it before coming into contact. You can also introduce each animal to the other’s space (when they’re not there), and let them have a good sniff. Just remember not to let your dog eat your kitten’s food or scratch in their litter box.
Meeting for the first time
When it’s time for your kitten and dog to meet for the first time, keep your cat in their box and put your dog on a leash. This way they can see each other without any physical contact taking place. Make your dog sit, and be prepared to take him or her out of the room if they get too excited. This activity should be repeated until both animals can relax when together. Don’t forget to reward both of them for their good behaviour by giving them lots of praise and cuddles.
Once your pets are comfortable being together in the same room, it’s time to let your cat out of the box. At this point, you should still keep your dog on its leash. If your cat seems reluctant to come out coax them with a treat, however don’t try to force it. Once out of the box, let the kitten explore, keeping your dog at your side. This should be repeated several times a day, until your dog is able to relax when the kitten is exploring.
Body language of dogs and cats
When introducing your dog to a cat, pay attention to the body language of both animals. If the cat’s ears are pinned back or his tail is swishing back and forth, this is a good indicator that he is displeased. You particularly want to be aware of dog body language that could be potential warning signs. If your dog has a strong prey drive (the inclination to seek out, chase and potentially capture animals seen as prey — usually smaller animals such as cats or rabbits), she might become very focused on the cat. She’ll stiffen, stare, and may start barking or whining. If you see these signs, do not let her near the cat. Ideally, her body language will be loose and relaxed around the cat. It’s OK if she pays attention to the cat, but you don’t want to see her fixated on him.
In addition, a dog’s interaction with a cat can change depending on the environment. Just because your dog is OK with the cat inside the house doesn’t mean she’ll exhibit that same behavior outdoors. She might fixate on the cat and start stalking him when they are outside together. So, be aware of her body language around the cat in each new situation, until you know how she is going to respond toward him.
How to Introduce a Kitten and a Dog for the First Time
Some dogs do fine living with cats; others simply cannot live safely with felines. Sometimes, a dog can live with certain cats (depending on their age, temperament and activity level), but not others. Even if your dog has successfully lived with cats in the past, it is important to remember that each dog and each cat is an individual and therefore each introduction is different.