Thanks for the reply regarding my cats and new dog. However, Leo has always been a bit skittish. He is starting to come around more but I would really like to remove the gate between the living room and the rest of the house. I do take the dog out of the area from time to time. Leo sees him, hisses then runs away. I do not want leo to be afraid of living in his own home especially since he was here first. I am having terrible angnst.

Honestly, he may never be entirely comfortable with the dog. I have two cats and no dogs at the moment, but the older cat was familiar with doggie intrusion as a youngster. He adapted to that dog, but has never welcomed another into the household even temporarily. The younger cat, a different breed, is much better. I think some cats are simply less adaptable than others. You'll have to decide who gets priority. I've always given the best shake to the animal whose home it has been for the longest period, but you'll decide what works for you.

Meanwhile, you can do a few things to help Leo. For instance, you might try leaving some of the dog's toys in his area so the smell becomes familiar. And you could try holding the dog in your arms firmly while Leo gets a chance to sniff and check him out. I'm not guaranteeing that these things will work, but they're worth a try.