It’s really important to have a friend to play with every now and then. After a long day’s work, a little bit of play is just what anyone needs. Though if your friend is a whole lot smaller than you, it might be a good idea to avoid rough play.

German shepherds put “big” and playful” together like bread and butter.

They can be awfully hyperactive and playful for an 80-pound breed – though you could say the same for most large breeds. Still, anyone playing with a German shepherd should be a bit careful. Especially if you’re, say, a cat.

An 80-pound dog and an 8-pound cat have quite the size difference between them. Luckily, German shepherds can also be incredibly gentle and protective.

While the kitty looks intimidated, it has little to worry about.

In fact, this shepherd makes it obvious that he’s cautious right from the get-go. This is Rocky, and he has a whole YouTube channel just about him.

Rocky likes making friends, but he can’t just run at everything with open arms and throw himself at them. He needs to take things slow, and he’s doing exactly that. Rocky circles and paces in front of this cat first, perhaps aware that he’s so much larger.

It doesn’t take too long before he gets a lot friendlier with the cat.

After that air of uncertainty in how to approach, the cat finally trusted him enough to let him cuddle and lick.

If only the cat was as comfortable as he seems to be. By the looks of things, the cat is still a bit unsure about its new friend that’s 10 times its size. It’s ears are angled back, a typical sign of a cat being uncomfortable, and it keeps its eyes on Rocky the whole time. Then, almost unsurprisingly, it gives a quick hiss.

Yeah, I don’t think this kitty completely trusts you yet, Rocky.

Well, try again is what Rocky does. Rocky knows the cat doesn’t have anything personal with him, it’s just a bit scared. The welcoming shepherd tries a few more licks and nuzzles, and the cat still isn’t enjoying it as much as Rocky would want.

But we can see they’re making progress because now the kitten’s grooming itself in front of Rocky and nuzzling him too. I guess it was just a matter of time, especially with how hard it is to resist the charm of a German shepherd.

They just got off on the wrong foot (or paw) it seems.

Then again, I’d be a bit tense too if someone 10 times my size came into my personal space.

All that uncertainty and tension looks to have disappeared now. I say that judging from how the cat has laid down and exposed its underside to Rocky. A classic “I trust you now” gesture from a cat.

Well, I can’t say I’m not happy. Watching a friendship blossom after some shaky introductions is always precious, especially if a big ol’ doggy is involved.

I hope Rocky and this kitty stay in touch.

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Source: Rocky on YouTube