10 Key Reasons Why Dogs Are Much Better Than Cats

Dogs are far better than cats. I’ve always considered myself a dog person, likely because my family has always had dogs and never cats. Though my grandparents and many friends had cats while I was growing up, I’ve still come to see why dogs truly outshine cats. Keep reading below as I explain why dogs are simply the better choice.

1. Can Join In On Exercise

One of the things I love most about having a dog is that she can join me in many of my favorite activities. Whether walking, hiking, or swimming, it’s great having my dog by my side.

Sure, you could bring a cat along, but that usually involves a carrier or pet stroller, and it’s not the same as having your furry companion happily walking beside you on a leash.

2. Come In Different Shapes and Sizes

Another great thing about dogs is the variety of sizes, allowing you to pick one that fits your preferences. You can opt for a 170-pound Great Dane or a tiny Yorkshire Terrier weighing less than 10 pounds. In comparison, most cats are generally similar in size and weigh around 10 pounds.

3. Safety

If someone rings the doorbell or attempts to break into your house, your cat likely won’t react, but most dogs would immediately jump up and start barking. It’s comforting to have that extra layer of protection. Dogs are naturally protective and love looking after their humans, while cats tend to be more independent and indifferent.

4. Playful

Most dogs are naturally playful, whether playing fetch, tug-of-war with a toy, or running around with other dogs. While some cats enjoy playing with things like lasers or toy mice, their playfulness doesn’t quite match the energy and enthusiasm of dogs.

5. More Trainable

Dogs are much more trainable than cats. You can teach them commands like fetch, sit, shake, and roll over, and that’s just the beginning. I’ve never seen a cat perform tricks at any of my family or friends’ houses, though I’m sure a few out there, enjoy learning them.

6. Friendly To Children

While not all dogs are incredibly friendly with children, many are. My Labrador Retriever, for example, adores kids, and I never have to worry about her harming them. It’s the best feeling. 

On the other hand, my brother-in-law has a cat, and we keep the kids away from her since she tends to claw and hiss.

7. Emotional Support

Dogs excel at providing emotional support. This is one of the main reasons so many dogs are designated as emotional support animals. They are highly attuned to humans and can sense when someone is sad, depressed, or in pain.

My Labrador Retriever, for instance, always knows when I’m feeling down. She loves to lick me, bring me her toys, or lay beside me when I’m sad. While some cats might approach you for petting, they don’t offer the same emotional support as dogs.

8. Sociable

Dogs are incredibly social creatures and there are two major benefits to this. First, their friendly nature makes them excellent icebreakers. I can’t count how many conversations I’ve had with strangers who wanted to pet my dog or because my dog wanted to sniff them. It’s a fantastic way to connect with people and engage in conversations that might not happen otherwise.

Another great aspect of their sociability is that you usually don’t have to worry about dogs interacting well with other people or dogs. In contrast, many cats tend to hiss or struggle with unfamiliar people, other cats, or even different animals.

9. Can Be Used For Different Jobs

Another reason dogs are better than cats is their versatility. While they are fantastic pets, dogs can also serve various roles, such as hunting, providing emotional support, ensuring security, and working in the military, among several others. 

I’ve never seen a cat working for the TSA at an airport, so this point is hard to dispute. The primary job of cats seems to be wandering around homes and occasionally catching mice. So, dogs win this category with flying colors!

10. Typically Don’t Like To Claw At Things

Certainly, there are some dogs that you can’t leave alone at home because they might destroy furniture, cabinets, and other items. However, dogs can be taught not to do that with the proper training. 

In contrast, cats are known for their tendency to claw at things, which is why many people invest in cat trees and scratching posts. I can’t even count how many of my sweaters have been ruined by my friends and family’s cats. Fortunately, I never have to worry about this issue with my dog.

Are You A Dog Or Cat Person?

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