Why Dogs Are Better Pets Than Cats

Animal lovers have long debated between cats and dogs as being the preferred companion. Dog enthusiasts tout their four-legged favorite as having a longer list of virtues, such as being better exercise partners and more loyal pets. Devotees of hounds also have concluded that their pets may suffer fewer health ailments than their feline counterparts.

Dogs and their owners share a bond that is as intense as the connection between mothers and their children, says Kate Douglas in "New Scientist: Dogs Vs. Cats: The Great Pet Showdown." Cats are independent and aloof, whereas dogs are accustomed to moving in packs and instinctively seek attachments. Douglas notes that dogs' behavior resembles babies, who are confident and comfortable in the presence of their mothers but become agitated when separated. That's why canine owners cite the unconditional love of dogs as a chief advantage over cats.

A dog owner can slip a leash on his pet and head outdoors for some exercise. The master and his animal might play Frisbee, jog through a park or take a long stroll through the neighborhood. "You can't take a cat with you on a run!" according to Freddie R. Bubble in "About Dogs: Why Dogs Are Better Than Cats." In its online article titled "Top 10 Reasons Why Dogs Rule," K9 Magazine further endorses the theory that dog owners are healthier by referencing a Belfast study that concluded that dog owners experience lower cholesterol and blood pressure and recover more quickly from heart attacks.

Most dogs endure baths, while a cat generally will refuse to step into her owner's bathtub for a routine shampoo. "Dogs are so obedient that they will let you give them a bath quite easily, while a cat will struggle the entire time," writes Freddy R. Bubble in "About Dogs: Why Dogs Are Better Than Cats." Likewise, feline owners must clean litter boxes, but dog owners only have to open their doors and allow their pets to step outside (but don't forget the bag).

Fido can be trained to fetch his owner's slippers and newspaper or to sit, heel and beg. On the other hand, cats are incorrigible. "The dogs are very obedient creatures and will sit or lie down or heel on command unlike the cats who will just smirk and walk away," says dog lover and author Freddy R. Bubble. He further contends that canines make great watchdogs but cats could never be relied upon to come to the aid of a master in trouble.

New York Times best-selling author Bradley Trevor Greive and acclaimed photographer Rachael Hale collaborated to outline reasons why dogs outshine cats. In their book "Why Dogs Are Better Than Cats," they contend that dogs are social while cats are sociopaths. Dogs warm up to people, but people have to warm up to cats. Dogs want lots of love, but cats only want lots of fish. Hounds teach humans to be patient, while felines test people's patience.