Some dogs have stronger instincts than others, making them more reactive around smaller pets. Whether it’s a high prey drive or territorial behavior, certain breeds need extra training and supervision to live safely with cats, rabbits, or other animals. Understanding these tendencies helps you create a safer, happier home for everyone.
Individual temperament varies widely. Proper training, socialization, and responsible ownership can help manage reactive tendencies in any breed.
1. Siberian Husky
Bred to run for miles across frozen tundra, Siberian Huskies possess an incredibly strong prey drive that makes them challenging around small animals. Their wolf-like instincts kick in fast when they spot something furry and fast moving.
Cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs can trigger their chase response instantly. Even well-trained Huskies may struggle to resist this deep-rooted urge, requiring constant vigilance from owners.
2. Jack Russell Terrier
Don’t let their compact size fool you. Jack Russells were originally bred to hunt foxes and flush out rodents from underground dens, giving them fearless attitudes and lightning-quick reflexes.
Their terrier instincts mean they view small pets as potential prey rather than family members. These feisty dogs need serious training and should never be left unsupervised with vulnerable animals like hamsters or birds.
3. Akita
Originally used for hunting bears and guarding Japanese royalty, Akitas carry a powerful protective streak that can turn aggressive toward other animals. Their territorial nature makes them particularly challenging in multi-pet households.
These dignified dogs often see smaller pets as intruders rather than companions. Without extensive socialisation from puppyhood, Akitas may display dominance or predatory behaviour that puts other pets at serious risk.
4. Australian Cattle Dog
With a heart as driven as their herding instincts, Australian Cattle Dogs were bred to control livestock by nipping heels and chasing stragglers. This intense work ethic doesn’t switch off at home.
Cats and smaller dogs often become targets for their herding behaviour, which can escalate into aggression. Their high energy and need for control make them unsuitable companions for timid or fragile pets.
5. Pit Bull Terrier
Historically bred for bull baiting and later dog fighting, Pit Bulls can display animal aggression despite being affectionate with humans. Their powerful jaws and tenacious nature make confrontations particularly dangerous.
While many Pit Bulls live peacefully with other pets through careful socialisation, their genetic background means owners must remain cautious. Supervised introductions and ongoing training are absolutely essential for safety.
6. Weimaraner
Known as the Grey Ghost for their stunning silver coat, Weimaraners were bred to hunt large game like deer and boar. Their hunting drive remains razor sharp even in suburban homes.
Small pets trigger their instinct to chase and capture, making them risky housemates for cats or pocket pets. These athletic dogs need experienced owners who understand their predatory nature and can provide proper management.
7. Alaskan Malamute
Built for hauling heavy sleds through Arctic wilderness, Alaskan Malamutes retain strong pack instincts and prey drive from their working heritage. Their size alone makes them intimidating to smaller animals.
These powerful dogs often view cats and small pets as prey rather than family. Their independent streak and stubborn nature make training challenging, requiring dedicated owners committed to ongoing behavioural management and supervision.
8. Greyhound
Despite their reputation as couch potatoes, Greyhounds were bred for centuries to chase down prey at incredible speeds. That instinct doesn’t disappear just because they’ve retired from racing.
Fast-moving cats or small animals can trigger an explosive chase response that’s nearly impossible to stop once it starts. While some Greyhounds adapt to living with cats, many never lose their sight hound instincts completely.
