One of the most common things you hear about ragdoll cats – especially from people who haven’t spent much time with them before – is how ‘dog like’ they are.
But what exactly does that mean? What it is about ragdolls’ personalities that make them just like dogs?
Ragdoll cats are often described as ‘dog-like’ due to their docile nature, high tolerance for being handled, intelligence and love of human companionship. All these traits combined is why the ragdoll breed is often labelled as being just like dogs.
Ragdolls are extremely smart cats, making them easy to train for their owners.
They do tricks just like a dog would, such as fetching a toy or responding when spoken to, and they sometimes even wag their tails in the same way a dog does when they are happy.
The fact ragdolls don’t mind being held (albeit, only for a few moments before they try to wriggle free) is another trait that makes them stand out from other cats and more closely resemble dogs with their behaviour.
7 ways ragdoll cats are just like dogs
Ragdoll cats have a reputation for being goofy, playful and loving, similar to how dogs behave.
In fact, many dedicated cat owners often compare their ragdolls to dogs in terms of personality.
So, what makes them so dog-like? Here are seven reasons why ragdolls act like dogs.
1. They are highly social
Compared to other breeds of cats, ragdolls are known for being particularly sociable animals that enjoy human companionship and interaction.
This trait is more common in dog breeds than it is in cats and helps explain why some people think they behave similarly to man’s best friend.
2. They love to cuddle
Ragdolls don’t just do the typical cat stretching and pawing; they will happily curl up on your lap for long periods of time, just like a small dog would.
It’s one of the reasons why ragdolls make great lap cats – it’s not uncommon for them to cuddle next to you on the couch or on the end of your bed in the evenings and purr to their heart’s content.
3. They are great with kids
Another dog-like trait that is shared by ragdoll cats is their affinity for children.
Many ragdolls are known to be gentle, patient and tolerant when around kids, making them a great pet choice for those with little ones at home.
That being said, some ragdolls don’t like being around noise and will hide when children are present – it really comes down to each cat’s individual personality.
4. They follow you around
If you’ve ever owned a ragdoll cat before then you know that they love to follow people from room to room throughout the house.
This behaviour again mimics that of dogs and is a character trait that sets ragdolls apart from other cat breeds.
5. They love walks
Ragdoll cats don’t only follow you around the house; they will also happily tag along during outdoor activities such as playing in the backyard.
It’s not uncommon for ragdolls to fetch sticks or pieces of bark when playing outside, which are both games normally associated with dogs rather than cats.
Personally, our ragdoll, Poppie, absolutely loves running around outside and will often bring my wife and I sticks in her mouth to play fetch with.
Just make sure your yard is secure before you let your cat outside to stop them escaping.
6. They have wagging tails
Perhaps one of the most recognisable doggish traits exhibited by ragdolls is their tendency to wag their tail when excited or happy – just like a dog would!
However, interestingly, ragdolls can also wag their tail when they’re annoyed or aggravated.
It’s important to assess their mood to determine whether their tail wagging is a good or bad thing in that particular moment.
7. They get super excited to see you
When you come home from work or school, don’t be surprised if your ragdoll runs to greet you with love and excitement – just like a dog would do.
Our ragdoll will always be waiting inside the front door when my wife or I return home from our jobs – you can even hear her meowing and purring through the door, such is her level of excitement that she finally has someone to keep her company.
As someone who used to own a dog, I can confidently say this behaviour is almost identical.
Why do ragdoll cats act like dogs?
Ragdoll cats tend to be much more affectionate and outgoing than other breeds, which could explain why their behaviour is typically associated with dogs. Ragdolls also love being the centre of attention and showing off, which also makes them dog-like.
As I’ve explained in another article, there are many ways ragdolls show affection including gently headbutting you or rolling around on their backs in an effort to entice you to give them a belly rub.
Both of these tactics are also used by dogs – especially small dogs – to try and get the attention of their owners.
So, why do ragdoll cats act like dogs? I believe it’s because they know acting this way will draw the maximum amount of affection from their human companions (and from experience, I can certainly say it works).
Final message
In summary, ragdoll cats are often seen as ‘dog-like’ due to their docile nature, high tolerance for being handled, intelligence and love of human companionship.
If you’re looking for a feline companion who has many traits similar to dogs, then a ragdoll could be the perfect choice for you.