{"id":5239,"date":"2021-10-19T08:29:16","date_gmt":"2021-10-19T01:29:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/allaboutsheepdogs.com\/?p=5239"},"modified":"2021-10-19T08:29:16","modified_gmt":"2021-10-19T01:29:16","slug":"best-companion-dog-for-australian-shepherd","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/best-companion-dog-for-australian-shepherd\/","title":{"rendered":"13 Best Companion Dogs For Australian Shepherd (With Pictures!)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Australian shepherds are easy-going canines and a great choice of a family pet. They are incredibly obedient, easy to train and get along with other dogs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But one unique trait about the Australian shepherds is that they love a companion. Being an energetic breed, they need someone to play with. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If left alone<\/a>, Aussies tend to be destructive as they look for a place to focus their energy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is something you should know if you’re planning to have more than one dog at home. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

While Aussies can get along with any other dog, some form better companions. In this post, I will discuss the best companion dog for Australian Shepherd.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Read on!<\/p>\n\n\n

[wpsm_toplist]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Labrador Retriever<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Labrador retriever is loyal, loving, and a proactive thinker. It’s strong, playful, and affectionate. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

And it will get along with other pets and children of all ages. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since your Australian shepherd is an active dog, it will enjoy the company of a Labrador.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you’re a pet lover, it’s hard not to fall in love with a lab. If your Aussie needs a playmate, the two will have an incredible time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Australian Cattle Dog<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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If you’re a true dog lover, you’d agree the Australian cattle dog is a great companion. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s intelligent, smart, and has a sense of loyalty. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Not to mention, this dog has high activity levels and will keep up with the other members of the pack. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although it tends to bark at a new member, it will calm down at gaining a sense of trust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Border Collie<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The border collie is arguably the best companion dog for Australian shepherd – for good reasons. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s fun-loving, smart, and hard-working. Additionally, it’s great at following demands and has lots of energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

These two dogs complement each other because they are completely overwhelming. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your Aussie will need lots of exercise, so it will be happy to have another herding dog in the family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Both breeds have the same similarities and high awareness of emotions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can’t go wrong with Border collie if you want to add another member to your dog family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jack Russel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Jack Russel is a wonderful dog that can coexist wonderfully with other dogs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Just like your Australian shepherd, Jack Russel is an active dog that strives to make other dogs happy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

They can play together and jump all day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you don’t train the Russel correctly, it will make your life a living hell. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

They learn very fast to ease your Australian shepherd’s daily life. Also, a Russel is a brave dog and will stop at nothing to protect the Aussie.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Golden Retriever<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The golden retriever<\/a> has a reputation for being one of the most intelligent and friendliest dogs around. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It likes to be around cats, humans, and dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pet lovers like the company of Golden retrievers for their youthfulness, joy, and purity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you bring this breed to your home, it will establish a place and help set the pace for your Australian Shepherd. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

And with time, they will become instant buddies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Siberian Husky<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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A husky is a friendly dog that tends to be playful to whoever handles it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

They don’t show suspicions or hostility to other dogs. These canine friends are also agile. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

And because of their playful nature, huskies are a great companion for your australian shepherd.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This breed has an incredible amount of energy and gets along with other dogs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

While a Siberian husky may not be a common breed, it’s open to mixing with any other dog. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since the Australian Shepherd is friendly, it will keep up with a husky.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

German Shepherd<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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A German shepherd is an intelligent working breed that forms a great companion. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

While it may be somewhat aloof with other dogs for the first time, it will become friendly after gaining trust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

German Shepherds are intelligent and like to play with other dogs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

And because they are built for exercise, they will get along with other worker dogs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you like to take your Australian shepherd outside, the two breeds will be more than willing to play.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dalmatian<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Dalmatian is a cute-looking dog with great characteristics. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s playful, highly energetic, and sensitive to other dogs. What’s more, it needs lots of exercises to dispel excess energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There’re many reasons why a Dalmatian can be a good companion for your Aussie. It’s intelligent, easy to train, and well reserved with strangers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although they have a history of being aggressive, they easily adapt to a new environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another thing you’ll love about the Dalmatian is the affectionate temperament. He loves to spend time with the family and will cuddle your Australian shepherd.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rhodesian Ridgeback<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Although a Rhodesian is a large-sized dog breed, it has amazing qualities. It has predatory instincts and tends to be aggressive towards dogs of the same sex. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, it adapts well to different living conditions and likes to have playful sessions with other members of the pack. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In addition, Ridgebacks love to run and require some physical activity to remain healthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rhodesian is a devoted companion, so it will get along with the Australian Shepherd. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But because it likes domineering, a little training will be need to make it a great buddy with your Aussie. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also, Ridgeback is independent and will test members of the family in the pecking order. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You must show them you mean what you say. These two dogs need brisk walking every day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

And because of the natural protective instinct, a Ridgeback will protect the Aussie from strangers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

These dogs know how to love deeply and show unwavering support to other dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Boxer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The Boxer is a medium-sized breed that features smooth fur. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s smart, playful, loyal, and has lots of energy. Not to mention, it’s available in a variety of colors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can choose chocolate, brown, spotted, speckled, or black and white. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

While they tend to be destructive (chewing and digging), you should ensure they exercise frequently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In terms of temperament, the Boxer is without a doubt, one of the easiest dogs to train. It’s also protective of the family and performs well in rescue work. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Their active nature makes them great outside as well as in the house. Just like your Australian Shepherd, the Boxers will give loving canine companionship. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

They tend to be affectionate – you’ll find it hard not to laugh in their presence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

And because they are both working dogs, you should make sure they feel engaged with tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Both the Boxers and Aussies have the same lifespan, so they will enjoy spending most of their lives together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Malamute<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Malamute is a unique dog known for its stunning looks and individual personalities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sometimes, it’s mistaken for a huskie. Also, it’s beautiful and regarded as an excellent dog. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Besides that, this breed is beautiful and is considered a VIP in dog breeding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What makes Malamute a great companion for the Australian shepherd is that both are extremely active. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another trait that makes it unique is the unique mixture of temperament and personality. It’s also sociable and loves attention. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, it can also be stubborn, so a little training goes a long way. Just like the Australian Shepherds, Malamute is obedient, loyal, loving, and affectionate. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Both breeds are also suited to outdoor styles, so they will have fun exercising together. As for the training, you can train them together because they are naturally obedient. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

They will love exploring the wilderness together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bernese Mountain Dog<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Bernese is good-natured and the best companion dog for Australian Shepherd. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The calm nature, sweet depositions, and willingness to play make it great around children. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s also highly trainable and will respond well to corrections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Both the Australian Shepherd and Bernese Mountain Dog<\/a> are lovable in real life. They won’t have problems accepting each other.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Beagle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Beagle is a breed that hails from ancient Greece. It’s friendly, charismatic, cheerful, and loyal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also, it’s affectionate and loves being around other animals – that’s the reason why it is a great companion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Beagles are bred to work in packs, so they love to have company. When left outside alone, it tends to be destructive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can avoid this by introducing another canine to play with. But as with other dogs, you must be patient when training your dog. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It requires positive reinforcement and a little creativity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since your Aussie is cheerful, it can have a lot of fun with the beagle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Do Australian Shepherds Get Lonely?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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One of the best things about owning an Aussie is being loyal and friendly to the owner. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Unfortunately, they don’t manage well when left alone for too long. Australian Shepherds are social dogs prone to separation anxiety. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Originally, they were meant to help farmers, and that’s why they are referred to as working dogs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even if you may not be always with your dog, it expects you to be on its side.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When the canine friend gets lonely, it can engage in destructive behaviors like ripping furniture or excessive barking. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

And this can wreak havoc on dog owners who live in apartments<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But no matter how bad you feel, you should avoid acting angry. This could trigger a bigger issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strategies To Overcome Separation Anxiety <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To overcome separation anxiety<\/a>, you must instill a sense of independence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another strategy is to leave the house for a small amount of time and increase the time gradually. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

And every time you walk out, make a fuss of them so that it’s never a big deal when you leave next.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you have to leave the house, you can introduce treats to build their confidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can also bring toys to show that being alone can be fun. As long as the toy is safe, it will leave a positive mark.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The age of your Australian Shepherd matters. A 10-week old puppy should not be left alone for more than an hour. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is because it doesn’t have much control over its body. By the time it turns 4 months, it can hold the bladder for longer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

At five years, you should not leave your Aussie for more than five hours. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember, it’s still dependent on you. Other breeds will hold on for longer without human presence, but not the Aussie.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you don’t want to leave your Australian Shepherd alone, you should bring a companion dog. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alternatively, ask for a friend’s help or hire a pet sitter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you have someone living with you, you should teach him or her how to take care of your canine friend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Do Australian Shepherds Get Along With Other Dogs?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Australian shepherds with 1 havanese by carterse<\/a> (CC BY-SA 2.0)<\/a> <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Australian Shepherds are not only incredible to their owners but also friendly to other dogs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

So, why are they so friendly? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since they were originally bred to work on farms, they had to comply with the owner’s orders. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If a wolf appeared, they would protect the animals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Naturally, these dogs are not aggressive and are happier when they see another canine friend they can play with. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you realize the dog is behaving aggressively, there are many reasons for it. Maybe they are frustrated, ill, possessive, or even afraid. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although this is a rare exception, you should try to fix the problem immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since the Australian Shepherd is an intelligent dog, you can train it to be friendly to other dogs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can introduce some basic commands like stay or sit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If he passes the test, you can give advanced instructions. And because these dogs love to exercise, you can play with them a lot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another trick to change the mindset of your dog is to expose him to fears. Teach him how to associate with friends, and he will get used to them gradually. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If your Australian Shepherd behaves well in front of other dogs, you can offer him a tasty treat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

One last thing – never oblige your dog with a muzzle as this will make him feel threatened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It’s a well-known fact: Australian Shepherds are intelligent, loyal, and family-oriented breeds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

While they can get along with any other dog, some are better than others. Those that make better companions share similar traits and instincts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although having an extra dog may sound like extra work for you, it makes your Aussie happier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

From the above guide, you can now choose the best companion dog for Australian Shepherd. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some may get confused when an Australian Shepherd tries to make them part of the flock. But they soon adjust and get excited.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When left alone, Australian shepherds tend to be destructive. But with a companion, they know where to focus their energy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you have an Australian Shepherd, but you’re skeptical about its behavior, he can still get along with other dogs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Training is key to having an obedient and happy canine friend.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Australian shepherds are easy-going canines and a great choice of a family pet. They are incredibly obedient, easy to train and get along with other dogs. But one unique trait … Continue Reading<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":5253,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rank_math_lock_modified_date":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[654],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5239","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-australian-shepherd"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5239"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/9"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5239"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5239\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5253"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5239"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5239"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5239"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}