Forget the old stereotype of cats and dogs being mortal enemies. In reality, many live together peacefully, and in some unique situations, dogs have even been raised by cats. These dogs aren’t your typical canine companions: they might purr instead of bark and prefer napping in boxes over chasing balls. Take Mako, for example, the dog featured in this YouTube video. Mako has adopted some surprising — and adorable — cat-like behaviors, such as gracefully leaping onto countertops, cabinets, and even the top of the refrigerator!
How the Environment Shapes Dog Behavior
Cats were domesticated later than dogs and tend to be more independent.
©YouTube/The Dodo – Original
Much of a dog’s understanding comes from observation and social learning. Puppies are especially adept at this, learning not only from other dogs but also from other species. Between two and nine weeks of age, puppies form both positive and negative associations with the people, places, objects, and animals they encounter. This is why it’s important to expose puppies to diverse environments and stimuli during this time, as these early experiences shape their overall perception and behavior.
If a puppy has positive (or even neutral) interactions with cats during this critical socialization window, they are far more likely to be comfortable around cats as an adult. Some dogs even come to view cats as friends or family members.
Dogs Acting Like Cats
Dogs modify their vocal sounds when interacting with different people.
©YouTube/The Dodo – Original
A puppy raised among cats will likely adopt some of their behaviors. These can include “loafing” (tucking their paws under their bodies), rubbing against furniture, squeezing into small spaces like boxes for naps, and even attempting to use a litter box.
Then there’s Mako, the dog in the YouTube video, who takes this even further. He imitates his feline friends by jumping onto countertops, cabinets, and even the refrigerator!
Mutual Tolerance and Friendship
Dogs were one of the first animals domesticated by humans.
©YouTube/The Dodo – Original
Popular culture often portrays cats and dogs as sworn enemies, but this isn’t always the reality. While some may never truly get along, conflict is far from a guarantee. Many cats and dogs learn to coexist peacefully, and in numerous cases, they can even become the best of friends. This is especially true for dogs raised with cats, as early exposure helps them become comfortable and friendly with felines from a young age. Researchers suggest that dogs raised with cats are more likely to be comfortable and tolerant around felines.
You might be surprised to see that the dog in the YouTube video is a good-sized pit bull. These dogs have unfortunately developed a negative reputation over the years, but there’s nothing in their genetic makeup that prevents them from befriending cats. In fact, studies show that while certain breeds may have particular predispositions, the breed doesn’t solely determine a dog’s personality.
Many pit bulls are affectionate, often cuddly and loving, and have a strong desire to please. With proper socialization and training, many pit bulls can also be loving companions to other cats in the household.
Of course, the success of a cat-dog friendship also hinges on the cat. Not every feline will tolerate a canine invading their personal space. Fortunately for the family in the video, their household cats seem to fully accept their canine sibling as just another member of the family, despite his larger size.
