Why Dogs > Cats

Written by: Joel Keng Jing Yi (24-A2)

Designed by: Liu Min (24-A2)

Pets have been a part of our lives ever since the domestication of animals. When we talk about pets, the two main animals that we think about are either dogs or cats. The debate about whether dogs or cats make better pets has been ongoing for centuries, with passionate advocates on both sides. While cats have their charms and advantages such as their cleanliness, many argue that dogs make superior companions. From their loyalty to their sociability, dogs have many compelling factors that make this argument in their favour.

Dogs are unwaveringly loyal, showcasing a level of devotion and attachment that is truly exceptional. This loyalty is evident in many aspects of a dog's behaviour. From the moment their owners walk through the door, dogs eagerly rush to greet them with wagging tails and joyous enthusiasm, expressing their happiness and affection in a way that is hard to miss. They vigilantly protect their owners’ homes, often acting as reliable guardians who are always alert to any potential threats or dangers. Beyond these protective instincts, dogs offer constant companionship, always ready to sit by their owner's side, provide comfort, and share both the happy and challenging moments of life. In contrast, cats, while affectionate in their own right, are generally more independent and aloof. They tend to be more self-sufficient and less reliant on human interaction, often spending large portions of the day alone and appearing indifferent to their owners' presence. Dogs, however, thrive on human interaction and form deep, emotional connections with their families. This bond is not just a superficial attachment; it is a profound relationship built on mutual trust, love, and respect. Dogs often seem to sense their owner's emotions, offering support and companionship when it is needed most, further solidifying their role as loyal and devoted members of the family.

Dogs are inherently social animals, which makes them wonderful companions for individuals and families alike. Their love for being around people and other animals is one of their most endearing qualities. This sociability is not just limited to their owners; dogs are often friendly towards strangers as well. This makes them excellent for socialising and meeting new people, whether at a park, a social gathering, or just around the neighbourhood. Dogs' approachable and friendly nature can help break the ice and foster new friendships, enhancing their owners' social lives in the process. Moreover, dogs thrive in environments where they can interact and play with others, whether they are humans or fellow canines. They enjoy participating in family activities, joining in on games, and even accompanying their owners on trips or outdoor adventures. This ability to integrate seamlessly into social settings makes them ideal for people who have an active lifestyle or enjoy being part of a community. For those who thrive on social interaction and want a pet that can be an integral part of their activities, dogs are often the better choice. Their inherent sociability, friendliness, and eagerness to engage with others make them excellent companions for anyone looking to enhance their social experiences and enjoy a more connected lifestyle.

Training a dog is usually easier and more rewarding than training a cat. Dogs have a natural eagerness to learn and please their owners, making them highly responsive to commands and tricks. This willingness to cooperate stems from their long history of domestication, where they have been bred to work alongside humans and perform various tasks. Because of this, dogs are quick to pick up on training cues and can be taught to do a wide range of activities. From basic commands like "sit," "stay," and "come," to more complex tricks such as playing dead, rolling over, or even fetching specific items, dogs excel in learning and executing a variety of behaviours. Their intelligence and trainability make them suitable for roles beyond mere companionship. For instance, many dogs are trained as service animals, assisting people with disabilities by performing tasks such as guiding the visually impaired, alerting the hearing impaired to important sounds, and even detecting medical conditions like low blood sugar or impending seizures. This ability to learn and perform specialised tasks makes dogs invaluable partners in many aspects of human life. Cats, on the other hand, while intelligent and capable of learning, do not generally share the same enthusiasm for training. They are more independent and less motivated by the desire to please their owners, which can make training a more challenging endeavour. Cats may learn to respond to certain cues or perform simple tricks, but they typically do so on their own terms and with less consistency than dogs. This independent streak is part of what makes cats unique, but it also means that those looking for a pet they can actively train and engage with might find dogs to be a better fit.

 However, cats are naturally clean animals, which is one of their most attractive traits as pets. They are meticulous groomers, spending a significant portion of their day licking their fur to keep it clean and free of dirt and parasites. This self-grooming behaviour significantly reduces the need for frequent baths, making cats a low-maintenance option for those who prefer a pet that does not  require regular bathing. Additionally, cats are very particular about their bathroom habits. They instinctively use litter boxes, which means owners do not  need to worry about taking them outside for bathroom breaks, regardless of the weather or time of day. This can be particularly appealing for people living in apartments or urban environments where outdoor space might be limited. The convenience of a litter box allows for easy waste management and contributes to the overall cleanliness of the household. Moreover, cats tend to give off less odour than dogs, and their waste is contained within the litter box, which can be regularly cleaned and maintained. This contrasts with dogs, which often require regular trips outside, and can sometimes bring dirt and mud back into the house. For those who prioritise a tidy living space, the self-sufficient nature of cats in terms of grooming and bathroom habits is a significant advantage. The clean and independent nature of cats also means they generally require fewer accessories and less maintenance. There’s no need for leashes, frequent baths, or extensive grooming tools. This can be particularly beneficial for busy individuals or families who might not have the time to dedicate to more hands-on pet care routines.

In conclusion, while cats have their own unique charm and can be wonderful pets, the numerous advantages offered by dogs often make them the better choice for many people. Dogs' loyalty is unparalleled; they form incredibly strong bonds with their owners and are always eager to provide companionship and affection. This deep emotional connection is something that many dog owners cherish as it fosters a sense of unconditional love and devotion that is hard to match, making dogs a far more superior companion to us. Personally, I love both of these cute and cuddly animals but these few factors put dogs on top for me. However, it is ultimately up to you to decide whether or not you agree with my view that dogs are better than cats.