[Ashleighkate]

For a long time I have wanted to get a kitten, after watching all my friends and family go through cats in all different shapes sizes and personalities.

The only concern I have are my three dogs, as I am unsure how they will react to a kitten.

One of my females (a 7 year old Samoyed with diabetes) is very gentle natured and great with other animals, she does not worry me at all and especially loves babies (of any breed). Only sometimes gets excited by the other two but still wouldn't be a threat.

My oldest boy is a golden retriever, he is very lazy and cheeky (he will be 12) he is always very excited when meeting other animals, barks like crazy and gives you 'crazy eyes' but does not hurt them.

My youngest girl (golden/ Samoyed) is much like her father but more obedient and a little more unpredictable with her reactions. She will either be weary and unsure or excited, depending on the animal/ influences (such as her dad). She either keeps to herself, plays with them or growls to let them know they are invading her space, but rarely initiates any violence unless food is involved and the other animal is persistent.

They have only ever been introduced to small rodents and puppies before. With the puppies they are fine, except for the initial excitement and uncertain stage. When they are on walks they get very very excited and bark like crazy at any other dog, and cat. They have never socialised properly with cats but their reaction on walks is not dissimilar to that of dogs. From what I can tell it is primarily interest and not threatening.

What would I need to ensure before deciding on introducing a kitten? How will I know if the dogs won't except it? Or if they will?