[malteseluvr]

Im planning on getting this cute little maltese, but i joined this forum to learn just a little bit more on dogs and to get a little more information on what type of food is best.... ect.
and im worried a bout introducing him to the cat that im very close to and that has been with me for about 5 years...
if any of you have a good approach let me know!
thanks!

[sheltieluver]

Where are you getting this dog from? Do you know if he has ever been around a cat before? Wherever you get your dog, you should work with them to determine that the dog is "cat friendly". If the maltese is a puppy it can be a good fit because both the puppy and cat will learn to get along as the puppy grows.
At the same time, has your cat ever been around a dog before? How did she react?

[zoomkitten]

I have had 4 cats be introduced to my dog over the years. I find what is best is to simply do nothing. Let the cat and dog run freely around in the same house. Watch them closely and at any signs of agression, place one of the animals in a closed-off room or area of the house. After awhile, either the animals will get along or they won't. 2 of my cats simply take off at a sprint at the sight of the dog, and 2 are best friends with the dog.

Remember, cats and dogs are opposing species. Sometimes you won't ever be able to make them get along. Hopefully, though, they will become good friends.