Dogs and cats

Question
Hi there,
        I have a staffordshire terrier who is often curious about my rabbit but nevertheless they get on.However i wish to own a cat and her behaviour towards cats outside is disturbing.I am not actually sure if it is aggression as all i have ever seen her do is chase them.Have you any ideas as to how i might introduce a cat into the family and how i might train them to get along?
kind regards,
             chebionne.

Answer
Often times having the animal in the house makes a difference!  One of my dogs will chase a cat outside but if fine with our cat.  I would suggest getting a younger cat or one who is experienced with dogs already and never leave them alone initially until you can assess the dogs attitude.  I believe that how you react and what you tolerate as an owner sets the standard!  Monitor the behavior and reward appropriate interest from the dog (Click and treat if you clicker train).  You can chose to reward ignoring the cat or smelling the cat or touching the cat.  If you get a young cat, make sure that the dog doesn't play too rough.  One of my dogs chases the cat as often as possible because that is the game they plan but I know my dog's body language and I can tell that he isn't acting aggressively and once the cat was fully grown he was more than capable of protecting himself!  My other 2 dogs mostly leave the cat alone unless the cat makes contact first.  I would certainly say that however you introduced the dog and rabbit will probably work as well with a cat.