Bringing a dog and bird under the same roof might sound like a risky idea — and in some cases, it can be. But with proper training, supervision, and boundaries, many dogs and birds can coexist peacefully. Whether you’re a dog owner introducing a parrot or a bird lover adding a dog to the home, it’s essential to take gradual, thoughtful steps.

Here’s how to train your dog to safely live with pet birds, while ensuring both animals stay happy, healthy, and stress-free.

1. Understand Your Dog’s Prey Drive

Dogs are natural predators, and some breeds have a strong prey drive. Terriers, hounds, and herding dogs may be more prone to chase or nip at small animals like birds. Before training begins, assess your dog’s breed tendencies and personality.

Ask yourself:

  • Does my dog chase squirrels or birds outdoors?

  • Is my dog easily excitable or hard to calm?

  • Can my dog respond to basic obedience even under distraction?

If your dog has a high prey drive, close supervision is even more critical.

2. Start with Obedience Training

Before introducing your dog to a bird, make sure they have mastered basic commands like:

  • Sit

  • Stay

  • Leave it

  • Down

  • Come

These commands give you control in unpredictable moments and help your dog focus. Positive reinforcement (treats and praise) will encourage calm behavior.

3. Introduce the Bird Slowly and Safely

Your dog should never meet your bird without a barrier at first. Use a sturdy cage, and keep the initial interactions brief.

  • Allow the dog to observe the bird at a distance.

  • If the dog remains calm, slowly decrease the distance.

  • Reward relaxed, quiet behavior — no barking, lunging, or fixating.

Watch your bird’s body language too. If the bird is flapping, squawking, or appears fearful, it may need more time.

Story pin image

4. Create Safe Spaces for Both Pets

Your bird should have a secure cage in a quiet area, away from where the dog roams unsupervised. When your bird is out of the cage, your dog should be:

  • On a leash

  • In another room

  • Crated (if trained and comfortable)

Never leave them together unsupervised, even if they seem to train get along.

5. Reinforce Calm Behavior Around the Bird

Consistency is key. Always reward your dog for:

  • Ignoring the bird

  • Lying down calmly near the birdcage

  • Responding quickly to commands

Redirect any excited or fixated behavior immediately. If your dog is too stimulated, give them a break away from the bird.

6. Know When to Call a Professional

If your dog shows obsessive interest, aggression, or anxiety around the bird, it’s best to consult a professional trainer or behaviorist. Safety should always come first — for both animals.

Final Thoughts

Yes, dogs and birds can live together safely, but it takes time, structure, and the right temperament. Some dogs will never be trustworthy around birds, and that’s okay — but with patience and training, many can learn to coexist peacefully. Your goal is to create a calm, respectful environment where both pets train can thrive.

Learn More
For more pet integration tips, visit petopedia.xyz or consult a certified dog trainer experienced in multi-species households.