I have a few questions about birds!

I love all these pictures of everyones birds, and I used to have birds my whole life when I was younger, but mostly budgies I think.

I've always liked Cockatoos(sp)?

I was wondering 2 things...

1-What are some different characteristics in birds? And which birds are loud/quiet..etc(Just general information on them).

And 2- Would having a bird with dogs and a cat ever work out??

Thanks