Although you shouldn't trust any dog with birds, some breeds need to be watched even more carefully. Terriers, for example, were developed to kill rodents, and they can be very fast and efficient at dispatching small pets, including birds. Not surprisingly, bird dogs may also show intense interest in the family parrot.

Never leave a dog or cat alone with your bird, or you may come home to a knocked-over cage and a terrified bird being drooled on by a very attentive cat or dog. Use baby gates (for most dogs, but not cats, who can leap them easily), or just close the door, but don't let your cat or dog have access to the cage while you're out.