I had both cats and dogs when I was growing up. Dogs are great because they are so protective of those they love. Cats will cuddle up to you and they are such fun to play with. They love their toys. Cats are more independent than dogs and do not require as much attention. Dogs are fun to play with and can be trained to fetch, walk with you, ect. Right now I have a small dog and she is very affectionate toward me. She follows me from room to room and likes to be close to me all the time. She either sleeps on the floor next to my bed or on the bed right up against me. I would not trade her for anything, although I do miss having a cat.