Dogs Raised With Cats Develop Social Habits Most Owners Don’t Expect

Jan 12, 2026bySarah McConnell

Have you ever noticed your dog acting a bit more like a cat than usual?

When dogs and cats grow up together, something magical happens.

Your pup starts picking up feline habits that might leave you scratching your head in confusion.

While these behaviors are commonly observed in dogs raised with cats, every pet is unique.

Individual personalities, breeds, and environments can influence how animals interact.

Always consult with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist if you have concerns about your pet’s behavior.

1. Making Biscuits Like A Baker

Making Biscuits Like A Baker
Image Credit: © Tina Rettler-Pagel / Pexels

Picture this: your dog curls up on the couch and starts pushing their paws in and out against the cushion, just like a cat making dough.

This adorable behaviour, called kneading or “making biscuits,” shows pure contentment.

Dogs learn this from their feline friends and use it when they feel safe and happy.

If your pup does this, congratulations – you’ve got one relaxed doggo!

2. Claiming The Windowsill Throne

Claiming The Windowsill Throne
Image Credit: © Gabriella / Pexels

Ever caught your dog perched on a windowsill, staring outside like they’re surveying their kingdom?

This classic cat move becomes second nature to dogs raised alongside felines.

They love watching birds, squirrels, and neighbourhood activity from this elevated vantage point.

Your dog has basically become a furry security guard with excellent observation skills and a touch of feline grace.

3. The Sneaky Pounce Attack

The Sneaky Pounce Attack
Image Credit: © Tamhasip Khan / Pexels

Does your dog hide behind furniture and then leap out at your cat in surprise?

This playful ambush style is pure feline influence.

Dogs normally play more openly, but living with cats teaches them the art of the sneak attack.

It’s all in good fun, creating a unique bonding ritual between your furry housemates that looks hilarious to watch.

4. Mutual Grooming Sessions

Mutual Grooming Sessions
Image Credit: © Snapwire / Pexels

When your dog starts licking your cat’s ears or face, they’re not just being weird – they’re bonding.

Cats groom each other to show affection and maintain social connections.

Dogs raised with cats pick up this habit, creating sweet moments of interspecies friendship.

This behaviour strengthens their relationship and shows genuine care between your pets.

5. Cuddle Puddle Naptime

Cuddle Puddle Naptime
Image Credit: © Зоряна Русин / Pexels

Finding your dog and cat snuggled together in one bed might seem unusual at first.

But for animals raised together, shared sleeping spaces signal deep trust and comfort.

This behaviour breaks the old myth that dogs and cats can’t be friends.

Your pets have formed a genuine bond that goes beyond species differences, creating adorable photo opportunities daily.

6. Tail Chasing Entertainment

Tail Chasing Entertainment
Image Credit: © George / Pexels

Watching your dog spin around chasing their tail might remind you of kitten antics.

That’s because they probably learned it from their cat sibling!

While some tail chasing is normal play, dogs with feline influences do it more frequently as entertainment.

It’s harmless fun that keeps them active and shows how adaptable dogs can be to their environment.

7. Tail Wagging Greetings For Cats

Tail Wagging Greetings For Cats
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Most dogs reserve enthusiastic tail wags for humans or other dogs.

But dogs raised with cats break this pattern by wagging excitedly when their feline friends enter the room.

This shows they’ve formed genuine friendships that cross typical species boundaries.

Your dog sees their cat companion as an equal family member deserving of the same joyful greetings.