How would you describe a cat who knows its name and comes when you call? Who will stop what it is doing when you say "no"? Who comes to eat when you call "dinner"? Who is very playful and athletic by day yet enjoys sleeping with you at night? Who intelligently asks you to turn on the faucet when it wants a drink? Who affectionately asks for your attention by verbalizing, placing a paw on your arm or nuzzling its head into your hand? From birth, our CaliMaine Coons are raised with dogs, and many of their behaviors are remarkably similar.

Truth be told, in our household it is the Bear Dogs who defer to the cats, not the other way around. From birth, our CaliMaine Coons are raised with dogs--a Border Collie and Karelian Bear Dogs (or KBDs) of varying ages--and many of their behaviors are remarkably similar. They find it great fun to chase around the room with the kittens and know to back down if they hear a growl or a hiss from one of their furry friends.

Kittens will play unabashedly with toys left in a dog crate as our Karelian Bear Dogs watch.

Danny the border collie has a unique talent. He used to herd sheep, so with no sheep to be found, he has decided that cats will do. He has a keen ability to take cues from my body language and tone of voice to identify which cat,in a room full of cats, that I am trying to pick up to, say, give a bath. He then positions himself in such a way that the cat is deterred from running away from me, and bath time can commence. In fact, he will remain on guard at the sink with me, just in case the cat is tempted to make a quick get away.

So, if you have a canine member of the family, you need not be hesitant to own a Maine Coon... at least not a CaliMaine Coon.

One of the fascinations that drives our interest in breeding is watching the personalities of each individual kitten (or puppy) flourish. Each animal is born with propensities for certain behaviors and instincts, but those tendencies are shaped by experience. Our job is to do more than insure that each animal is safe and comfortable. We believe we must appreciate--and reinforce--the innate tendencies that make each one special.

Effective dog handling teaches you to be resolute and consistent in communicating your expections and to be generous with praise when the dog exhibits the correct response. Young puppies respond best when training is synonymous with fun. With repetition and consistency, cats--not so willing to obey upon command--do learn your expectations and learn to communicate theirs. Tone of voice conveys important meaning. This communication process creates a very special relationship.