You may think I’m biased as a dog owner and lover, but I swear to you that I’m not a hater when it comes to cats. I actually love my feline friends and have had cats as well as dogs my entire life.
So really, that makes me pretty confident in listing a bunch of reasons why dogs are better all-around pets than cats.
Whether you’re in agreement with me or need some more persuading, scroll below to see 25 of the biggest reasons dogs rule and cats drool (and please don’t send me hate mail):
They Potty Outside
Let’s begin with the little unwavering fact that dogs do their business outside. Yes, that does mean that you have to carry around little baggies and dispose of the poop on your walk, which admittedly can be kind of embarrassing, but at least their unmentionables don’t hang around indoors until someone gets around to cleaning it up.
Also read about: The 35 Cutest Dog Breeds of All Time
You Never Have to Deal With Litter
On that note, if you’ve ever stepped barefoot on stray kitty litter that has spilled out of the litter box, that’s reason enough to prefer canine companions. Seriously revolting.
They Make Friends Easily
They often have shorter adjustment periods when getting to know new people and animals. If there’s one noticeable distinction I’ve made between all of my dogs and all of my cats, it’s that the dogs have been extroverts while my cats are the opposite.
They’re Like Built-In Security Systems
While too much barking can sometimes get a little annoying, it’s legitimately useful when a dog barks anytime a stranger approaches the house. Meanwhile, cats won’t even bat an eye at a new face.
They’re Full of Joy
Dogs are always happy and excited to see you, even when you’ve just been in the bathroom for two minutes.
(via Unsplash)
They’re Natural Mood Boosters
Studies actually show that petting a dog lowers cortisol (the stress hormone) and boosts serotonin.
Of course, cats can do this too, but dogs are proven to be more consistently calming just by being in the room, and cats aren’t always so welcome to pets.
They Love to Play
They play way more with you than cats do. Sure, cats enjoy feather toys or batting around catnip mice at times, but you have to admit that dogs are infinitely more playful.
They’re Eager to Learn
Dogs are more adaptable to learning tricks. Whether it’s sitting, shaking hands, rolling over or fetching items after you say “Accio [item]” dogs just pick up these skills easier.
Also read about: 15 Irresistible Captions for Every Photo of Your Dog
They Adore You
Dogs look at you like you’re the best thing on Earth which is a huge self-esteem boost. Now if only your crush would look at you with those puppy eyes.
They Notice When You’re Sad
Dogs are super in tune with human emotions.
When you’ve been having a rough day, most dogs will sense your sadness and join you to comfort you with their head in your lap, while cats tend to walk all over you before continuing on with their days.
They Don’t Bring Unwanted ‘Gifts’
Cats are more inclined to bring home gifts of dead mice, lizards and birds which, tbh, wasn’t on your birthday wish list.
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They Have Actual Jobs
Dutiful dogs can be trained to do plenty of jobs, from working as service animals to therapy dogs, search and rescue workers or even medical alert companions. We’ve never heard of a cat holding down a real job.
They’re Less Sharp
Dog nails and teeth aren’t nearly as sharp so it doesn’t hurt as much if they accidentally scratch or nip you.
They Can Come Along for the Ride
Dogs can accompany you on more adventures than cats who usually stay inside.
They’re Great for Your Social Life
It’s hard to walk a dog without getting chatted up in the process. Folks will stop you on the street to say hello to your pup in a way that simply doesn’t happen when you’re carrying a cat.
They’re Forces of Good
They’re all around less evil seeming. Sorry, cats.
They Make Every Homecoming Feel Special
Whether you’ve been gone for eight hours or eight minutes, the lovey-dovey greeting a dog gives you at the front door is unmatched and never, ever gets old.
Also read about: 15 Unusual Dog Breeds You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
There Are So Many Kinds of Dogs to Love
12. There’s more noticeable diversity among dog breeds than there is with cats. Of course there are plenty of cat breeds, but their differences aren’t as substantial as, say, a pug and a goldendoodle.
(via Unsplash)
They Want to Spend Time With Friends
When you have friends over, cats usually dash out of the room into a private spot while dogs love to join the hangout.
They’re Less Likely to Trigger Allergies
It’s easier to find a hypoallergenic dog than a cat. On that topic, cat allergies are twice as common as dog allergies.
They’re Best Friends to All
I mean, between the two, only one of these species holds the title of “Man’s best friend.”
They Understand Boundaries (Eventually)
With a bit of training, most dogs eventually learn not to jump on the couch, to beg at the table or to chew on your favorite shoes. Cats, on the other hand, will look you dead in the eye while scratching the very thing you just told them not to scratch. If they do understand you, they simply don’t care.
They Keep You Active
Dogs basically force you to get outside and move each and every day. Even if you’re just taking a quick walk around the block, rather than going on a full-on hike, your can count on your dog consistently increasing your step count.
They’re Not Chaos Goblins
The fact of the matter is that I’ve never seen a dog hop onto a counter and slide a glass of water off the ledge with its paw. It just doesn’t happen.
They Grow With You
The relationship you build with a dog over time is real and ever-evolving. They pick up on your routines and moods in a way that proves their love and care for you, so you just can’t help but love them back.
If you’re desperate for a pet but can’t convince your parents that you’re up for the responsibility, click HERE for the five signs you’re ready to take care of a pet.
On the other side of the debate, find all the reasons cats are better than dogs.
More pet reads: the dumbest dog breeds, ranked and captions for your new cat.
