Should I Get a Dog or a Cat?

Are you easy-going, exuberant, and extroverted? Or are you a little aloof, solitary and quiet? Your personality may be the deciding factor in choosing the right pet for you. If you look back in history you will find most artists, poets and writers were cat people while film stars, athletes and singers those who normally had to work with people chose a dog as their pet.

Whether this is true or not, there are many other things to consider when deciding between a member of the Felidae or the Canidae family.

Dogs and cats both have their own pros and cons. Deciding which one is the best is a crucial choice that is dependent on the owner's personality and lifestyle. Listed below are some pros and cons of both so that you can decide which one is right for you.

Dogs

Dogs are social, easy to train and above all loyal. They are very protective of their owner. Some dogs even encountered death from the grief after the owner’s passing away. They will follow the owner everywhere and have a burning desire to stay with them. Even many humans can’t offer that condition free love that dogs can offer.

Here are some pros and cons of owning a dog:

Pros:

• Easy to train to obey basic commands like ‘down’, ‘sit’ and ‘heel’.
• They are very social and easily go well with other dogs
• Can be made great companions – hence the saying “mans’ best friend”.
• Dogs offer unconditional love to their owner

Cons:

• Dogs require daily workouts (this could also be pros) and a hectic amount of owner’s attention.
• High-quality dog food could be costly – especially for bigger dogs that require to eat plenty.
• Some dog breeds can drop plenty of hair.
• Dogs are harder to house train unlike cats, and this can be a long time project from start to end.

Cats

Cats are independent and taking care of them is easy. All they want is a water and food bowl and a litter box, they will be fine to go. Additional stuff you can add at your own discretion. Some demanding cats have scratching posts, cat trees, catnip, toys, grooming kits and special shampoos. Others just enjoy a rolled up piece of paper and a window view and this is enough to make their day.

Here are some pros and cons of owning a cat:

Pros:

• Easy to house train with a litter box.
• Cats are self-cleaning. They are frequently bathing themselves.
• Cat food is normally less expensive than dog food.
• Self-dependent and able to relax themselves.
• Saves the cost to take to the doctor and for cattery boarding if you are going away.
• Cats are relaxing and can soothe anxiety.

Cons:

• A little difficult to train to follow commands.
• Can be a little aloof.
• Can tend to take pleasure scratching furniture.
• Can cause allergies to some people.
• Don’t go well with moving house or travelling.

Which Will You Choose?

There you go – the most known pros and cons of keeping a dog or cat. You may need a lot of research before you come to a decision. However, whichever you choose a fluffy puppy or a purring kitten, you will definitely enjoy your pet to the fullest.

Still can't decide? Get both! Yes, we know. Cats and dogs don't get along, but with proper introduction, training, patience and time, they could be best friends. Just have a look at this pair. Aren't they the cutest?!