I've had both. However, dogs take a great deal more care and attention. My last died in 2005, a beloved black Lab called Bella. I found her passing so awful that I kept putting off getting another dog. In the meantime 2 little granddaughters arrived and I go up at least every other month to spend time with them. I can leave my cat and a friend pops in to feed her - the cat comes and goes in the cat flap and is quite happy. Well I say this as she is always so pleased to see me she 'haunts' me for the rest of the day. When my suitcase comes down she glares at it and potters off grumbling. To say a cat is not affectionate must come from people who have never had them. As I sit typing this she sits next to me purring and rubbing her head on the lap top.
It's all a matter of your lifestyle when it comes to getting a dog. They must not be left more the 4 hours, need two decent walks a day - according to the breed - vet bills, spaying, insurance, wear and tear on your house with a chewing puppy. Why not get a rescue dog - but then it can come with problems too, depending on it's history. Do some research on the type of dog that would suit your needs. I know a lady in her 70's who bought a Border Collie. This dog needs so much exercise, they are better suited to country people as they really are a working dog. In the end she passed the dog onto a local farmer, in it's boredom the dog ate it's way through her furniture.
Puppies look cute but grow into dogs, sometimes big dogs. So as a dog lover really think carefully before committing yourself. Good Luck.
