While dogs and cats have some personal characteristics in common, there are a few very distinct differences between them.

For example, consider the natural social nature of canines compared to the typically solitary personality of felines. Dogs are pack animals and most cats tend to spend time alone. Whether it's eating, sleeping, or sharing their space. Cats also exhibit a hunter's instinct that some dogs don't tend to act out on, and will often spend much of their time stalking anything that moves, both outside and inside of the house.

Dogs and cats also have different tastes. Dogs are omnivorous; they are able to eat a variety of foods from meat to vegetables. But cats are so-called obligate carnivores, meaning that they need to eat meat-based protein in order to remain healthy.

When it comes to potty training, cats and dogs differ in a big way too — cats usually pick up the litter box routine fairly quickly, while dogs usually take from several weeks to months to learn when and where to relieve themselves.

Truth be told, there can be several reasons why a dog is acting like a cat. Various situations and even medical conditions can be the root cause of this behavior.

1. A dog is imitating the cats around it. If the two species are living in the same house, chances are the dog is imitating the cat because it notices you giving attention to the cat and wants the same;

2. A dog is suffering from separation anxiety. This condition can make a dog act in weird ways just to be close to you, including sticking close to you just like a cat would;

3. A dog has skin problems. We see cats grooming themselves ceaselessly just to be clean, but a dog that licks itself in a similar fashion can be suffering from some sort of skin issue;

4. A dog wants a better vantage point. Some breeds, especially watchdogs would appreciate having this advantage in order to be on top of things;

5. Your dog is bored and wants attention. Sometimes, wagging your tail and chewing on furniture can get pretty boring, so dogs start doing anything that brings attention to them;

6. The dog's breed. Some examples that possess more cat-like traits than others are: the Basenji, Whippet, Vizsla, Mi-Ki, Shiba Inu, Papillon, Shetland sheepdog, Italian greyhound, and more.

Either way, bless them.