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A black and tan Rottweiler licks the head of a calico cat who has her eyes shut in a cluttered living room. 17 / 36

A Big Rottweiler Gives a Calico Cat a Careful Wash

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The big Rottweiler is concentrating hard, his tongue out and his dark eyes half closed, as he gives a calico cat's head a thorough lick. The cat sits with her eyes tightly shut and her pink nose lifted, clearly enjoying every second. Her orange, black and white coat is soft against the dog's black chest. A living room spreads out behind them, with a throw blanket on a chair, a houseplant, a bone and a rope toy on the floor. It's a tender moment from an everyday day.

Licking is a common way for dogs to show affection and for cats and dogs who live together to bond. Cats groom each other as a sign of friendship, and some dogs will do the same for a feline housemate. Rottweilers are strong, loyal and often surprisingly gentle with those in their family, especially when they have been socialized from a young age. Calico is a coat pattern, and calico cats are nearly always female. If a dog licks too much or the cat seems uncomfortable, calmly separate them, and ask your vet if you have questions about their health or hygiene.

The cat's closed eyes and the dog's careful tongue show that this is a well-established routine. Everything about it is gentle. It proves that a big, tough-looking dog can have a soft, tender side.

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