My 80-lb. shepherd mix (Max) was raised around ferrets. If Max is awake, he enjoys playing with the ferrets. When he is eating or sleeping, he does not like to be disturbed by them (and they are pretty obnoxious). I don't let them near him when he is eating or sleeping. I also think it can be a risk to have him step on them if they are in a paper bag, etc. But for the most part he is very good. I used to have an oversized sheltie who was introduced to ferrets as an adult. She was wonderful with them; most likely the sheltie herding instinct? I also had a ferret who came close to being killed by a neighbor's dog (mixed shepherd). I think a lot depends on the dog, if they are used to other animals, etc. I would advise using common sense and closely monitoring their interaction, especially in the beginning. My experience with cats is that ferrets tend to annoy cats because they are always trying to play with them. Also, ferrets will bite cats when they are sleeping, eating etc. (as well as *staring* at them). I make sure that my cats have access to places where the ferrets can't go (usually places high up-- tables, furniture, etc.) I think it's stressful for a cat to be bitten by a ferret, even if the ferret is playing. My experience is also that feral cats who become house cats get along well with ferrets. (Feral cats are cats that were born outdoors and were not handled until later in life.) I find that feral cats who become pets tend to get along very well with other animals and have very sweet dispositions. In my house, they are the ones who do the best with the ferrets. Ronnie Ralphie, Harry, Prince Charming, Merlin the Maniac Max & felines [Posted in FML issue 1735]