10 Reasons Dogs Are Better Than Cats (Like, Seriously)
Let’s be honest—dogs get us. They greet you like a long-lost celebrity whenever you walk through the door. Cats have their charm, sure, but if loyalty, love, and an all-around good time are what you’re after, dogs win. Need more proof? This list breaks down undeniable reasons why dogs are superior pets, and by the end, even the most devoted cat lover might start questioning everything.
Dogs Are Over-the-Top Excited to See You
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Coming home to a dog is like stepping into a surprise party thrown in your honor every single day. The tail wags, the happy barks, the zoomies around the room—it’s pure joy. Cats might look up, acknowledge your return with a slow blink, and return to whatever they were doing. That’s not a greeting but a performance review.
Built-in Exercise Partners
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Dogs need exercise. The CDC suggests at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, and dog owners are more likely to hit that target just by keeping up with their pets. Meanwhile, cat owners are more likely to get a workout dodging surprise attacks or retrieving the TV remote from under the couch.
They’re Social Butterflies
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If you want to be more social, get a dog. Take one for a walk, and suddenly, you’re chatting with neighbors, fellow dog lovers, or random strangers who have to pet your pup. Cats, on the other hand, are social black holes. They’re independent, elusive, and not breaking the ice with anyone.
More Trainable (And Willing To Learn)
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It’s easy to tell that dogs actually want to learn. Sit, stay, roll over? No problem. Fetch your slippers? Absolutely. Detect medical conditions? Some can do that, too. They have been trained for police work, search-and-rescue missions, and even detecting diseases like cancer, thanks to their intelligence. Cats can learn things, too, but it’s like negotiating with a tiny, unimpressed CEO.
They Protect You
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Dogs have been guarding humans for thousands of years and still take the job seriously. Even the most miniature breeds bark their heads off if they sense danger, meanwhile, bigger dogs are natural deterrents against intruders. Cats might watch an intruder break in, knock a glass off the counter for dramatic effect, and then nap.
They Won’t Knock Stuff Off The Counter For Fun
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Your dog may be clumsy, but they don’t have a personal mission to send objects flying. Conversely, cats are notorious for methodically knocking over cups, pens, and anything else they can get a paw on. Worse is, it’s not an accident—it’s pure entertainment.
They Make Excellent Babysitters
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Having a childhood dog is pure joy. Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers are naturally gentle and protective around children. Growing up with a dog can also reduce allergies, lower stress, and help kids develop stronger social skills. Cats, on the other hand, are more likely to view small children as unpredictable threats or, at best, temporary roommates.
More Likely To Save Your Life
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Dogs can sense danger and take action. They have been known to alert owners to fires, wake people during medical emergencies, and even detect life-threatening conditions before they happen. A Labrador in Canada once saved his owner from a diabetic coma by sensing low blood sugar and barking for help.
They Can Learn To Help with Chores
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Apart from being fun, dogs are also super functional. Some breeds can be trained to pick up laundry, fetch the remote, or even open the fridge. Service dogs go even further by helping people with disabilities complete daily tasks. Cats’ version of “helping” involves sitting on your laptop while you work or knocking over your drink while you clean.
They Form Close Bonds With Multiple People
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Dogs spread love. They’ll happily bond with an entire family and shower affection on everyone in the household. Cats tend to choose a person and stick to them like a furry, fickle shadow—everyone else is background noise. While dog owners get to share their pet’s love, cat owners often find themselves in a weird, one-sided rivalry for their pet’s affection.
They Respond When You Call Them
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A dog hears their name and comes running. If you’re lucky, a cat hears their name and might flick an ear in acknowledgment. Dogs can learn hundreds of words, while cats seem to recognize their names but choose not to react. Owning a cat means repeatedly saying their name into the void and hoping they decide to show up.
They Don’t Use A Litter Box
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No one wants a litter box in their home. It’s a smelly, space-consuming necessity for cat owners that requires constant upkeep. Dogs, on the other hand, do their business outside—there are no lingering odors, no scooping clumps of mystery waste, and no surprise “presents” left in hidden corners.
Built-in Alarm Clocks (With Wagging Tails)
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Forget snooze buttons—dogs make sure you get up. Whether it’s a morning potty break, breakfast, or excitement for a new day, they’ll make sure you’re awake. Cats wake you up, too, but usually with less enthusiasm and more demands. One wakes you up out of love. The other wakes you up because they want something.
They Keep You Warm At Night
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Dogs are the best bedtime companions. They snuggle, radiate warmth, and love being close. Cats might curl up at the foot of the bed if they’re in the mood. Otherwise, they’re off doing whatever mysterious cat things they do at night.
They Actually Care About Your Feelings
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History proves dogs sense sadness, anxiety, and stress—and will actively try to comfort you. They’ll nuzzle, lick your face, or sit beside you when you’re having a tough day. Meanwhile, cats might acknowledge your feelings by blinking in your direction. A dog is like the ultimate four-legged therapist.