Result of Border Collie Growing Up With Cats Melts Hearts: 'Raised Well'
A dog's unusual spot where he hangs in the house can only be explained by one reason: cats.
Rip the border collie quickly picked up on feline behaviors after being raised in a house with cats, which isn't uncommon for dogs. Canines mimic behaviors from their environment or companions and with a cat in the household, Rip was bound to pick up on a habit here and there.
An article from the pet expert blog PawSafe reported that dogs who bond with felines can show more cat-like behaviors, such as climbing, self-grooming or embracing independence. However, some dog breeds might naturally exhibit characteristics that resemble cats. They also might pretend to be cats for attention or affection.
In this instance, Rip likely saw the cats resting in a particular spot from time to time, feeding into his newfound desire to climb. He fully embraced his inner cat and in the September 11 Instagram clip shared to his account, @rip_the_border_collie, Rip was caught lounging on the top of the couch on several occasions.
The caption reads: "Rip will tell you he is part cat."
The space is enough for a cat but a little too narrow for a dog Rip's size to sit. However, determined, Rip made it work. His back paws keep him up by resting them on the headrest and with a smile on his face, he seemed perfectly comfortable.
He now has a higher vantage point of the room, a new luxury he wouldn't have realized without cats.
Newsweek reached out to @rip_the_border_collie via Instagram for additional comment.
The Instagram video amassed over 58,100 views and 2,329 likes with users claiming they see no difference between Rip and a cat.
"He fits so perfectly on there!" said one person.
Another added: "Raised well I see."
Rip isn't the only pet who picks up on habits not usually associated with the animals. On the flip side, cats can pick up on some behaviors that are more connected with dogs. Take the game of fetch for instance. When you think about fetch, you might automatically assume a dog is playing, however, cats like the game too.
Newsweek previously reported that researchers found cats will play fetch without training. In fact, not only will they play, but they will also initiate it. The study also found that cats preferred playing fetch with household items like a hair tie or paper over cat toys.
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