Category: Breed Info

As you’ll see, from the richest to the poorest and everything in between, in America the Pit Bull was the dog for kids.

SeventyFour / iStock
Despite their (unfair) reputation for being dangerous, Pit Bulls were once considered some of the most beloved dogs in the United States and England. During the first part of the 20th century, families seeking dogs to keep them safe preferred Pit Bulls because they were considered highly trustworthy, protective, and loyal.

But while Pit Bulls have been referred to as “nanny dogs,” they weren’t originally bred to care for children or ever officially classified as such. Like many working dogs, Pit Bulls were originally bred and trained for hunting. So, where did the nanny dog nickname come from?

What is a nanny dog?

A nanny dog is a dog that is great with children — gentle, forgiving, affectionate, and watchful. Although there is no official “nanny dog” designation, certain dog breeds are often referred to as such because of their temperament around children. When properly trained and socialized from a young age, Pit Bulls make excellent “nanny dogs” or “babysitter dogs.” Pit Bulls love their people, no matter their age, and have a zest for life and play that children especially can appreciate.

Of course, no dog (of any breed) should actually be left completely alone to care for a child. Children under five are the top victim of dog bites, usually not out of aggression but due to dogs showing their boundaries (dog moms bite their puppies to correct their behavior).

Pit Bulls’ history

Pit Bulls weren’t originally bred for nanny dogs. Many Pit Bull breeds were bred for hunting in 19th century England, Scotland, and Ireland or, in the case of American Pit Bull Terriers in the late 19th century, for fighting (which, though still abusive, wasn’t nearly as brutal at the time as it is now).

What does “Pit Bull” actually mean?

It’s important to clarify what the term “Pit Bull” actually means. A “Pit Bull” is not actually a distinct breed but rather an umbrella term that refers to a number of different Pit Bull type breeds, including the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Bully Dog, and many other mixed breeds.

Pit Bulls as nanny dogs

Throughout the 19th century, Pit Bulls were increasingly bred as pets — predominately for families in the working class. This was the time around which Pit Bulls began to be recognized for their “nanny dog” qualities which made them ideal in homes with children. In the first part of the 20th century, Pit Bulls were so popular that they were often featured in the media, including in the “Our Gang/Little Rascals” films and the Buster Brown comic strips. Famous figures — including Theodore Roosevelt, Helen Keller, Thomas Edison, and Fred Astaire — were Pit Bull owners and supporters during that time. During WWI and WWII, Pit Bulls were even used in advertisements as patriotic symbols. And in the 70s, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club described the breed’s love of children, referring to them as ‘nursemaid dogs.’

Vilifying dog breeds

But Pit Bulls began to be vilified in the second half of the 20th century in no small part due to their unfortunate surge in dog fighting rings, which led irresponsible breeders to mistreat them to induce vicious qualities.

The media generally also has a long history of vilifying certain dog breeds to foment fear and sell sensationalized stories. It’s a phenomenon hardly limited to Pit Bulls; before Pit Bulls, Rottweilers were demonized, and before Rottweilers, Dobermans were targeted. Before Dobermans, German Shepherds were villainized. Certain breeds — breeds that we now rightfully consider safe — have long been deemed too vicious and unpredictable to be around people.

Are Pit Bulls safe around children?

Like any other breed, Pit Bulls are safe around children as long as an adult is observing them. Pit Bulls may behave aggressively when stressed — again, like any other dog — especially if they haven’t had the right kind of training or care. Small children should never be left alone and unsupervised with any dog. Proper training and socialization are important for any breed.

What made Pit Bulls suitable for the role of babysitters?

While there is no evidence that children were ever left completely alone in the care of Pit Bulls,  what made them suitable in homes with children is because of their adaptable nature. Pit Bulls have an incredibly protective instinct, which makes them perfect for looking after children in their families. These breeds are also called “velcro dogs” because they always want to be around their people. They are also empathetic and able to detect distress and offer comfort — a great trait in any babysitter — in the form of snuggling or licking their humans.

What are the myths surrounding Pit Bulls as nanny dogs?

Perhaps the biggest myth surrounding Pit Bulls is that they frequently attack humans. In reality, Pit Bull attacks on humans are rare. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, out of the approximately 4.5 million dog bites that occur in the United States each year, Pit Bulls cause only a small percentage.

Though Pit Bulls are not naturally human or animal aggressive, there are myths out there that they are. In fact, in 2012, 86.8% of American Pit Bull Terriers passed tests that measured their stability, aggressiveness, friendliness, and protectiveness. As a point of comparison, 85.2% of Golden Retrievers and 80.1% of Collies — two breeds largely considered incredibly friendly — passed those tests.

Some people even believe that Pit Bulls have dangerously locking jaws, but in reality, Pit Bulls’ jaws do not lock, and they do not even have the most powerful bite among dogs (German Shepherds have that honor). There are also myths that Pit Bulls don’t feel pain, but, of course, Pit Bulls feel as much pain as any other breed.

It’s ironic that one of the most tolerant, patient, gentle kinds of dog is now portrayed as the most dangerous. And yet, an estimated one million Pit Bulls are euthanized each year; they account for 40 percent of all dogs euthanized by shelters annually.

 Pit Bulls as “babysitters” with pictures

Although these vintage photos of children with their Pit Bull dogs are cute, it’s important to note that there is no evidence that Pit Bulls were ever used as babysitters. However, there is plenty of evidence that Pit Bulls adore their people and can be great with kids — news to no one who’s ever met one. These photos serve as a helpful reminder that these pups were (and still can be) trusted family pets.

This collection of amazing historical photos of Pit Bulls as “nanny dogs” with children was created by Yonah Ward Grossman. Posted with permission.

Pit Bull Nanny Dog FAQ

Were Pit Bulls bred to babysit?

Though good with children, Pit Bulls were bred to hunt, not to babysit children. All dogs should be supervised with children, regardless of breed.

Where can I learn more about the history of Pit Bulls as babysitters?

Pit Bulls have been called “babysitters” because they are gentle around children. To read more about the history of Pit Bulls, you should read Pit Bull: The Battle Over an American Icon by Bronwen Dickey.

What made Pit Bulls suitable for the role of babysitters?

Pit Bulls are incredibly loyal and tolerant, which makes them suitable for families with children.

Are Pit Bulls child friendly?

Yes, Pit Bulls are friendly with children. Like any other breed, Pit Bulls are safe around children as long as an adult is observing them.

Why are Pit Bulls called nanny dogs?

Pit Bulls have been called “nanny dogs” because they are gentle around children and can be very protective of them.

What is the myth of a Pit Bull as a nanny dog?

While stories of the Pit Bulls friendly temperament around children inspired the myth, Pit Bulls were never actually bred to be “nanny dogs.” No child should ever be left completely alone and unsupervised with a dog of any breed.

Why do people say Pit Bulls are mean?

The media has spread this misconception and Pit Bulls have also been mistreated by humans and forced into illegal dog fighting, which has perpetuated this stereotype.

By Savannah Admire

Oleksii Syrotkin / Stocksy
Every dog is unique and requires understanding and patience from their pet parents, but a dog’s breed can often give new pet parents a bit of clarity about how to raise and take care of their pup. Working dog breeds — like Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and Rottweilers — come with plenty of training and care challenges, but they can be incredibly loving and devoted family dogs.

“Working dogs are usually very beautiful and incredibly intelligent,” says Robert Haussmann, CPDT-KA, Trainer, Behavior Consultant, and Co-founder of Dogboy NYC. “This can draw people in when selecting their next dog. However, it is often overlooked that working dogs need to be engaged both mentally and physically for much of their day.”

Learn all about working dog breeds, their characteristics, and what to expect if you bring an energetic working dog into your home and family.

What is considered a working breed dog?

So, what is a working dog? Working breeds may have been bred for a specific task, like herding or hunting, or they may have adapted over time to work with and for humans. Many working dogs still engage in jobs or activities like herding, tracking, retrieving, agility, and obedience. Some even work with the military or law enforcement or assist individuals as service dogs.

What are the characteristics of a working dog breed?

These breeds tend to be very focused and driven to complete their tasks and make their handlers or trainers happy. Working dogs are usually calm and confident and remain so even under high-pressure situations, enabling them to perform their jobs without becoming distracted or spooked. Physically, these breeds are usually medium to large with strong, powerful bodies and are some of the heaviest dog breeds.

Common working dog breeds

There are many breeds that fall under the working dog category, but some of the most popular types of working dogs include Retrievers, German Shepherds, Hounds, Siberian Huskies, Great Pyrenees, Boxers, Australian Shepherds, Collies, Sheepdogs, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Rottweilers.

What to know before adopting a working breed dog:

These high-energy breeds often aren’t content to laze around the house and have a number of other specific needs that will require your time and attention, so if you have more of a sedentary or busy lifestyle, a working dog breed may not be the best choice for you.

Temperament

While working dog breeds tend to be very focused and intelligent, they can also have an independent streak. Parents of these breeds need to know how to raise a working puppy, as well as how to train and command them to curb any unwanted behaviors.

Trainability

Working dogs are highly intelligent and quickly learn new tasks, from basic commands to more advanced tricks. They’re eager to please and happy to listen and take direction, making them good companions with the right obedience training.

“Start training ASAP,” Haussmann says. “An eight-week-old puppy can learn basic cues, and you can start setting some house rules. You should also find a well-run puppy socialization play group conducted by a CCPDT or IAABC certified trainer.”

Socialization

Like most dogs, working breeds need to be exposed to the people, environments, and other animals they will encounter on a regular basis. Puppy training classes can be a fantastic way to socialize your working breed dog from a young age. You may also want to spend time at local dog parks or invest in doggy daycare.

Care

Because of their high levels of intelligence and athleticism, working dog breeds require regular daily exercise to become and remain healthy, strong dogs. This can include playtime, such as fetch or training, or exercising with you by going on a run or for a swim. These breeds also require mental stimulation, so invest in puzzles and chew toys to keep their busy minds occupied.

Many working breed dogs have long coats that require frequent grooming to prevent matting. Talk to your veterinarian about the grooming needs specific to your dog’s breed, and consider hiring the services of a professional groomer to keep them clean and healthy.

You’ll also want to make sure your working dog breed gets all the nutrition they need through high-quality dog food. Many active dogs need a high-fat, high-protein diet, so ask your vet about the best food for your dog.

Common health issues

Large breeds are more prone to orthopedic disease and joint issues such as hip dysplasia, so you may want to give your working breed dog a joint supplement as they age. Working dogs can also be more prone to injury because of their high levels of activity.

Training a working breed dog

Working breeds often require extensive training to perform at their best level in their jobs, and obedience skills have to be kept up throughout their life. Working breeds need a job to do to keep both their minds and bodies occupied, so it’s a good idea to start training when they’re puppies.

“Training will need to be front and center in your relationship,” Haussmann says. “These busy dogs need guidance and clear communication. This goes beyond teaching basic training cues and playing fetch in the park a few days a week. This may range from regular, consistent training and exercise, to being passionate about training and spending weekends engaged in a dog sport that engages your dog’s natural skills.”

Basic commands

Fortunately, working breeds are very trainable dogs. Obedience classes are one of the best ways to reduce herding behaviors like chasing and nipping, and satisfy the dog’s need for both physical and mental stimulation. Most working dogs respond well to positive reinforcement training and are usually happy to take commands and do the requested tasks well. Consider investing time and money in obedience classes into your dog’s adulthood to continue working on commands and socialization.

Advanced obedience

Because of their intelligence, working dog breeds can learn more advanced commands and tricks, such as gathering laundry off the floor and bringing it to you, cleaning up their toys, or even bringing their human parents their house slippers. Once your dog has mastered the basics, you may want to continue their training with more advanced obedience classes.

Agility

Dog sports such as agility events are a great way to entertain working breeds, keep them mentally stimulated, and strengthen the bond between dog and parent. Other competitive activities, like herding competitions and dock diving, may also be options.

Regardless of the type of training or exercise you choose, it’s important to understand your working dog’s personality and physical needs. “When a dog’s needs are not met, they develop bad habits,” Haussmann says. “This stresses the need to evaluate your lifestyle and determine if a working dog is right for you.”

FAQ (People Also Ask):

Can a working dog be a family pet?

Many families have working dogs because they can be very loyal and loving pets. Just make sure to invest time in training to eliminate any unwanted behaviors.

What is the difference between a service dog and a working dog?

Service dogs go through extensive training to perform specific service tasks. Working dogs can be service dogs, but are more often involved in herding or other work.

What are the cons of working dogs?

Working dogs must be properly trained and require a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation, so they aren’t a good choice for more sedentary pet parents.

Can working dogs live with other dogs?

Working dogs can get along well with other dogs, but they need to be socialized as early as possible and should go through training to eliminate unwanted behaviors, like herding and nipping.

What are the characteristics of a working dog breed?

These breeds are often highly intelligent, physically strong, active, and very observant.

What does it mean if a dog is a working breed?

Working breeds were originally bred to assist humans in some way, whether guarding the home or working on a farm.

Can a working dog be a family pet?

Working dogs can make loving and devoted family pets as long as they go through basic training to eliminate any unwanted or unnecessary behaviors.

What is considered a working breed dog?

Working breed dogs were bred to have the physical ability to perform specific tasks, such as herding livestock, guarding, and pulling sleds.

How are working dogs trained?

Begin training a working dog breed puppy as soon as possible, preferably by working with a certified trainer who uses positive reinforcement.

What is the difference between a service dog and a working dog?

A service dog is trained to perform specific tasks to assist a human with a physical or mental illness. A working dog is a dog that has a job, such as herding livestock.

Is an Australian Shepherd a working dog?

Australian Shepherds were originally bred to work on farms and ranches herding livestock, and some Aussies still do that job today.

Are Australian Shepherds easy to train?

Australian Shepherds are eager to please and easy to train, but can also be stubborn at times, so it’s important to begin training an Aussie as early as possible.

What is the strongest dog breed?

Saint Bernards are generally considered the strongest dog breed because of their huge size (up to 180 pounds) and muscular bodies.

References

Australian Shepherds

Pelger-Huet Anomaly

Australian Shepherd: How to Select, Train and Raise a Healthy and Happy

Great Plains Wildlife Damage Control Workshop Proceedings, Volume 12

Savannah Admire is a writer, editor, and pet parent to two dogs and a cat. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, playing Animal Crossing, or being an obnoxious nerd about her favorite movies and TV shows. She lives in Maryland, where she constantly debates whether or not to get a third dog.

By Savannah Admire

Jaki Portolese / Stocksy
If you’ve fantasized about having a wild cat as a pet (just like Jasmine in Aladdin), you may have heard of domesticated wild cat breeds. Created by crossing a domestic cat with a small wild feline species, these cats were bred to look exotic but act as tame as any other house cat. These breeds, also known as “cat hybrids,” still have wild traits, however, and require a lot more care and attention than most domestic cats. 

Here’s everything you need to know about wild domestic cat breeds.

Domesticated wild cats

Cats have not been domesticated nearly as long as dogs, which is why they retain some of their more wild traits, like their stealthiness and hunting instincts. Jungle cat hybrids are even less tame than traditional house cats because they are more recently descended from wild cats.

What is a domesticated wild cat?

Domesticated wild cat breeds are a cross between a wild cat, like a Serval or Asian Leopard, and a domestic cat. These cats were bred to create tame cats with the personalities of typical house cats mixed with the exotic and stunning appearances of wild cats.  

Can domesticated wild cats be kept as pets?

These cats are specifically bred to be sold as pets, often for thousands of dollars. Breeders often promise that these wild house cats are tame, but they have no way of knowing what traits or qualities have been bred out of each generation. 

Later generations of domesticated wild cat breeds tend to have fewer traits of their wild ancestors, but they often still have more wild qualities than most domestic cats. While these cats can be kept as pets, they require significantly more care, exercise, and attention than the average house cat, so think twice before adopting one of these breeds unless you have the time to commit to their care.  

How are domesticated wild cats different from regular house cats?

Domesticated wild cats can have many of the same traits as regular house cats, like being affectionate and loyal to their human parents, but these cats also retain more of the wild traits of their exotic ancestors. 

Origin

Hybrid cat breeders mark each generation with F followed by a number; the number indicates how far removed the cat is from their wild ancestor. For example, an F1 cat is from the first generation and will likely still require a diet of raw meat and be much wilder than later generations. Generations labeled F4 or later are considered domesticated jungle cats, but they often still possess many of the traits and behavioral issues associated with previous generations.  

Appearance

Domestic wild cats are bred to have the unique coloring and appearance of their wild ancestors, which can include spots or mottling similar to that of a leopard or cheetah.

Temperament

While domestic wild cat breeds can still have wild instincts and be very mischievous, these cats can also be loving and cuddly with their human parents. These breeds tend to be highly intelligent and can be trained to learn tricks — and, in fact, investing time and energy in training your domestic wild cat as a pet can help reduce destructive behaviors. 

Care requirements

Unlike most cats who are content to laze around the house each day and entertain themselves, domestic wild breeds need attention, mental stimulation, and enrichment. Invest in puzzles, games, and new toys in a variety of textures and shapes to keep them occupied. 

Because of their active and athletic nature, wild house cats also need regular exercise. These breeds can benefit from leash training so they can accompany you on daily walks. Make sure to have plenty of places in your home for them to climb, scratch, and play. If your domestic wild cat doesn’t have these designated spaces, they may turn their attention to destroying your furniture and other items in your home. 

What are some popular domesticated cat breeds with a wild appearance?

There are domesticated wild cat breeds that you can adopt from a rescue or shelter if you are ready to commit to their care. But if you want a cat with a wild appearance that is still fully domesticated, consider other breeds that look wild but have the temperament of a traditional domestic cat.

Caleb Woods / Unsplash

Bengal

One of the most popular domesticated wild cat breeds is the Bengal, which is a cross between an Asian Leopard and a domestic cat (usually an Egyptian Mau). The Asian Leopard is one of the smallest wild cats, and this hybrid is incredibly energetic and intelligent. Like most domesticated wild cats, Bengals benefit from training, tons of exercise, and plenty of mental stimulation. They retain the Asian Leopard’s coat pattern, which features spots and marbling, and enjoy playing in water and climbing.

Gennadiy Naumov / Shutterstock

Savannah

A combination of the Serval and a domestic cat, the Savannah is the second most popular wild hybrid cat breed. With their stunning coat, this cat looks much like their wild ancestor, a spotted, long-legged wild cat from sub-Saharan Africa. The Savannah is extremely adventurous and enjoys exploring but can also be very affectionate and loyal to their human parents. Their coats can be brown, silver, snow, or charcoal, and unlike the similar fully-domestic Ocicat, these cats tend to be on the larger side, weighing up to 25 pounds. 

Like the Bengal, the Savannah is a wild cat hybrid, which means they may retain many wild traits and require extra care and attention. Some states and cities have laws against owning these wild cats as pets, so be sure to check your local regulations before adopting a Savannah.

Norwegian Forest Cat

If you want a cat with a wild — even fairytale-like — appearance but all the cuddly traits of a traditional domestic cat, consider the Norwegian Forest Cat. Unlike the Bengal and Savannah, this breed is fully domesticated and originated in Norway, where they lived in the forests for hundreds of years. With their large, muscular bodies and coats in a variety of colors and patterns, the Norwegian Forest Cat makes for the perfect snuggly companion, friendly and gentle with other people and animals. Instead of wild cats, pets like the Norwegian Forest Cat are a great choice for first-time pet parents or those with children.

Wellington Silva / Pexels

Maine Coon

Another domestic cat breed with a wild appearance is the massive Maine Coon. These large cats are very graceful despite their size, and their tufted ears, fluffy tails, and luxurious coats are reminiscent of wild felines. Known as the “dogs of the cat world,” the Maine Coon is a gentle giant, affectionate toward their human parents and other pets in the house, making them a fantastic choice for families with children. Instead of wild cat breeds, domestic cats like the Maine Coon give the appearance of wildness with the cuddly temperament of a tame house cat. 

What are the pros and cons of domesticated wild cats?

Domesticated wild cats are beautiful pets, but they generally require more care than most traditional house cats, making them a poor choice for most cat parents. Be sure to consider your lifestyle and whether you have the time and space to devote to a domesticated wild cat breed before adopting one.  

Pros

Nearly wild cat breeds are often very intelligent and affectionate, capable of learning tricks and adapting well to training. These breeds can also be very playful and active, which can make them great companions for people who lead active lifestyles. With the right amount of leash training, they can join you on walks and hikes. Domesticated wild cats also have gorgeous coloring, thanks to their exotic ancestry, giving them the elegant appearance of wild cats. 

Cons

Nearly wild cat breeds can be incredibly expensive, often costing several thousand dollars from breeders. They also require a lot of attention and exercise and may exhibit destructive and even dangerous behaviors if not properly trained and physically and mentally stimulated. 

These cats also tend to have costly diets, as they often require high-quality cat food and raw meat. They also have a propensity to develop health issues that may require expensive surgery or treatment. In addition, not all vets care for domesticated wild cats, so it may be challenging to find proper healthcare for your cat. There are also no rabies vaccines approved for use in hybrids. 

Some nearly wild cat breeds can also be quite territorial and aggressive, so if you have other pets in the home or small children, these cats are likely not for you, as they have been known to “hunt” and even hurt others in the home who they view as prey. In addition, these breeds can be very destructive, and many never adapt to using a litter box, resulting in constant cleanup. 

Where do I find and adopt domesticated cat breeds with a wild appearance?

Breeding domesticated wild cat breeds is often unethical, especially because there is little to no oversight for these breeding facilities. If you feel prepared to bring one of these cats into your home, find a rescue that specializes in domesticated wild cat breeds. It’s always best to adopt a cat in need.

Domesticated wild cat breeds are stunningly beautiful pets, but they require a significant amount of extra care and attention making them not ideal pets for most pet parents. Before adopting a Bengal or Savannah cat, be sure to consider whether you have the time and budget for their unique diet, veterinary care, and physical and mental exercise. 

If you wish to adopt a cat with a wild appearance that is fully domesticated, consider other breeds like the Norwegian Forest Cat and Maine Coon, both of which will be easier to care for and will do better with other humans and animals in the home.

FAQ (People Also Ask):

How do domesticated wild cats differ from regular domestic cats?

Domesticated wild cats often retain wild behaviors of their exotic ancestors, including a raw meat diet, not using a litter box, and being more vocal than house cats. 

Can domesticated wild cats be kept as pets?

They can be pets, but are very challenging to care for, requiring a lot of exercise, mental stimulation, frequent vet visits, and training to reduce destructive behavior. 

Do domesticated wild cats require special care or accommodations?

Domesticated wild cats need a lot of exercise, both physical and mental, as well as plenty of room to run and play, extra veterinary care, and a specialized diet.  

Are domesticated wild cats more challenging to train or socialize?

Yes, wild cat hybrids can be more challenging to train and keep as pets. These breeds have wild personalities compared to most domestic cats, but are intelligent and can be trained. They can be challenging to socialize with other pets.

What are the potential challenges of owning a domesticated wild cat?

Challenges include their tendency to urinate outside a litter box. They’re also known to bite, even while playing, and may attempt to attack other pets in the home.  

References

Domesticated: Evolution in a Manmade World

Importing wild or hybrid cat species

Domestic Cats: Their History, Breeds and Other Facts

Who’s behind that mask and cape? The Asian Leopard cat’s Agouti (ASIP) allele likely affects coat colour and phenotype in the Bengal cat breed

Behavior and health issues in Bengal cats as perceived by their owners: A descriptive study

Savannah Admire is a writer, editor, and pet parent to two dogs and a cat. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, playing Animal Crossing, or being an obnoxious nerd about her favorite movies and TV shows. She lives in Maryland, where she constantly debates whether or not to get a third dog.

By Savannah Admire

Oleksii Syrotkin / Stocksy
Affectionately known as the dogs of the cat world, the Maine Coon cat is a larger-than-normal feline with a playful and loving personality. With their thick, fluffy coats and sweet chirps, this cat is the perfect family pet and companion. Learn all about what makes the Maine Coon different from other domestic cat breeds, as well as what to expect when adopting one of these oversized felines into your family.

What is the history behind Maine Coon cats?

There are quite a few myths about the origins of these large cats; one of the most popular is that they are actually a cross between cats and raccoons! Of course, that’s biologically impossible, but the visual similarity between these cats and raccoons, especially in their plush tails, is where the “Coon” part of the breed’s name originates.

According to another myth, the Maine Coon descends from long-haired cats sent to Maine by Marie Antoinette ahead of her escape from France. When the French queen never made her way to North America, her cats were left to wander and breed with other cats in the area, resulting in the unique Maine Coon.

The most likely explanation for the breed is still a pretty good story: Viking sailors may have brought long-haired cats with them when they landed in the U.S. hundreds of years ago, and those cats likely mixed with local short-haired domestic felines in the area. The first documented historical mention of the Maine Coon was in 1861, referring to a black and white cat owned by a soldier.

Maine Coons predominantly originated in New England, where their thick fur coats protect them from the region’s cold winters, and have been around since colonial times. If you couldn’t guess from their name, this breed is the state cat of Maine, where they were first recognized as an official breed. Maine Coons used to serve primarily as barn cats, where their hunting skills kept the area free of mice. They were especially popular in the 20th century and remain so today.

How are Maine Coon cats different from other cat breeds?

The Maine Coon is unique from other domestic breeds in a number of ways, most notably their much larger size. So, how big does a Maine Coon cat get? Where most adult cats are no more than 10 to 12 pounds, the size of a Maine Coon can be as much as 25 pounds. Their muscular bodies contribute to this larger frame, and they have taller and longer bodies than other feline breeds. Even Maine Coon kittens grow faster than other cats!

In addition to the larger physical size of Maine Coon cats, they also have markedly different personalities from most other breeds. They are very affectionate and love to be around people, leading to their unofficial titles as “the dogs of the cat world.” While they’re incredibly social, Maine Coons are also independent and easily go about their day without looking for extra attention. These thoughtful cats are very observant, thanks to their natural hunting skills, and can even comfort their parents when they’re sad or help look out for younger members of the family like an attentive guard dog.

Maine Coons also walk with a distinctive gait often described as a “lope” and vocalize with a variety of charming noises beyond the traditional meows of most domestic cat breeds.

What about their appearance sets them apart?

Having evolved to survive harsh New England winters, the Maine Coon is sturdy, very fluffy, and has larger ears than most cats. The tufts of fur on top of their ears even give them a similar appearance to the wild lynx. Maine Coons also have more distinct whiskers — the longest of any cat breed — and a luxurious and fluffy tail that can be anywhere from 12 to 18 inches long (compared to the average 10-inch tail of other cats).

Size

Maine Coons are the largest domestic cat breed, with some individuals weighing up to 25 pounds and topping out at a remarkable 40 inches in length, including their tail. In fact, the past two Guinness World Record holders for the world’s longest cat were both Maine Coons. Compared to an average cat, this breed more closely resembles the weight and length of a small dog (and their personalities are more similar to canines as well).

Fur

Maine Coons have long, thick, water-resistant fur designed to keep them warm in the snowy terrain of New England. Their fur is notably silky and especially long around the chest and neck, creating the appearance of a mane. When properly cared for, a Maine Coon’s fur can grow several inches long.

Colors

Maine Coons can be a variety of colors, including black, white, brown, orange, and tabby, as well as more unique patterns like tortoiseshell, calico, and parti-color (two colors). This breed has been seen in over 75 different colors and numerous patterns — a variety that’s evident when looking at Maine Coon cat pictures.

Valeria Boltneva / Pexels

Do Maine Coons have a specific personality?

Their size and fluffy fur aren’t the only things that make Maine Coons different from other domestic cat breeds. These cats also tend to have unique personalities that can best be described as friendly and very people-oriented, especially when compared to an average cat.

Temperament

Maine Coons are known for their gentle temperament and their love of people and are often dubbed “gentle giants.” They tend to be far less skittish around strangers than most cats, showing off their affectionate personalities and enjoying cuddling time with their family members. This open and even goofy temperament makes the Maine Coon an excellent choice for first-time pet parents or those with young children.

But do Maine Coon cats get along with other cats? They certainly can! These fluffy felines love other animals and people, but make sure to take time to properly introduce a Maine Coon to any other pets in the home.

Intelligence

Maine Coons are considered one of the most intelligent cat breeds and are highly trainable, just like most dogs. If you have babies or small children, you may catch your Maine Coon watching out for them and serving as a guard cat for your neighborhood. Thanks to their intellect, this breed can easily learn tricks, so don’t hesitate to invest time and energy in training.

Vocalizations

Maine Coons have a wide range of vocalizations, including trills, chirps, low-pitched meows, and, of course, purring. These cats are known for their soft and melodious voices, which they often use to communicate with their parents. Their quieter voices sometimes make them harder to hear, but they are very expressive, using a variety of sounds, including yowls, to communicate with their human parents.

Love of water

Unlike most cats, Maine Coons are known for their love of water. They love to swim in lakes and ponds at the first opportunity, and they even enjoy playing in the bathtub.

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Do Maine Coon cats have specific health concerns?

Thanks to their hardy frames, Maine Coons tend to be fairly healthy, but their larger size also contributes to unique health problems that aren’t as common in other domestic cats. These potential health issues also lead to a shorter Maine Coon lifespan — about nine to 13 years, compared to the average of 12 to 18 years for most cats.

Because of their size, Maine Coons are more prone to hip dysplasia, a hereditary defect of the hip socket. This condition can be mild, resulting in little to no pain, or can lead to severe trouble walking and jumping.

The breed is also prone to more heart problems than most domestic cats, particularly feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), one of the most common forms of heart disease found in cats. This issue is typically found in Maine Coons that are middle-aged or older, so keep an eye on your senior cat and be sure to take them in for regular checkups with your veterinarian.

To keep your Maine Coon healthy, ensure that they get plenty of exercise. This breed has a natural love of the outdoors and can easily be leash-trained to accompany you on walks and other outside adventures.

Adopt a Maine Coon

The Maine Coon is a playful and affectionate breed, an excellent option for dog lovers and first-time pet parents. With the right care and plenty of attention, a Maine Coon can become a beloved member of your family, snuggling up for cozy nights in and even joining you on walks or trips to your favorite outdoor spots. If you’re looking for the perfect feline companion, consider adopting a Maine Coon from your local rescue or shelter today!

FAQ (People Also Ask):

What about their appearance sets them apart?

The Maine Coon is sturdy, fluffy, and has large ears with tufts of fur on top. Their tails are longer than other cats and they weigh more, too.

Do Maine Coons have a specific personality?

Maine Coons are known for their gentle temperament, love of people (they’re often dubbed “gentle giants”), intelligence, and trainability.

Are Maine Coons more active than other cats?

Maine Coons are relatively active and need plenty of exercise. They are especially known for their love of water and swimming.

Do Maine Coon cats have specific health concerns?

Maine Coons are more prone to hip dysplasia and more heart problems than most domestic cats, particularly feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).

Do Maine Coon cats have specific grooming needs?

This breed has long, fluffy hair that needs to be groomed regularly — daily, if possible.

References:

About the Maine Coon Cat

Vet Steet – Maine Coon

Do Maine Coons Get Along With Other Cats?

Meet the Maine Coon

Savannah Admire is a writer, editor, and pet parent to two dogs and a cat. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, playing Animal Crossing, or being an obnoxious nerd about her favorite movies and TV shows. She lives in Maryland, where she constantly debates whether or not to get a third dog.