Choosing a compatible companion for your Australian shepherd can improve happiness and harmony in your home. Australian shepherds, or Aussies, are energetic, intelligent and social dogs that thrive in active environments. To ensure the best pairing, it is essential to choose a breed capable of following its energy, Temperament and mental needs. In this article, we will explore the best breeds compatible with an Australian shepherd and why they make excellent companions.
Understanding the Temperament of the Australian Shepherd
Before diving into specific breeds, it is crucial to understand the Temperament of the Australian shepherd. The Australians shepherds are:
- Energetic and active: They need a lot of physical exercise to stay happy and healthy. Daily walks, play sessions and even tasks such as breeding or agility training are essential.
- Very smart: They are known for their problem-solving skills and their ability to quickly learn commands. Australians thrive in environments where they can engage in mental stimulation, including puzzles and workouts.
- Affectionate and loyal: Australian shepherds are incredibly loyal to their family and can be protective. They tend to be friendly but can be booked with strangers.
- Work-oriented: As herding dogs, they have a natural inclination to work. This drive must be managed through physical and mental activities to avoid boredom and destructive behaviors.
- Sociable: Although they can sometimes show dominance, Australians usually get along well with other dogs if they are socialized early. They enjoy the company and the moments of play with other dogs.
10 breeds compatible with an Australian Shepherd
With these traits in mind, let’s explore the dog breeds that are most compatible with Australian shepherds.
1. Border Collie
Why they are a great match:Â
Border Collies share many traits with Australian shepherds, including their high energy level, intelligence and strong work ethic. Both breeds come from a breeding background, so they understand each other instinctively. Border Collies thrive in active households and enjoy agility, breeding or other work tasks. The combination of an Aussie and a Border Collie means that you will have two dogs who like mental challenges and a lot of exercise.
- Energy levels: Extremely high
- Temperament: Intelligent, hardworking and focused
- Best activities: Agility training, breeding, frisbee, obedience work
Consideration: The pairing of an Australian with a Border Collie can lead to a very active family environment. Be prepared to invest time in training and exercise to keep both dogs happy.
2. Labrador Retriever
Why they are a great match:Â
Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly and easy-going nature, which makes them a great complement to the more intense Australian shepherd. Labradors are also energetic, so they can follow the active lifestyle of the Australian, but their laid-back personality balances the sometimes-nervous behavior of the Australian. Labradors are also extremely loyal, sociable and playful, which makes them ideal companions for a household with an Australian shepherd.
- Energy levels: High
- Temperament: Friendly, outgoing, playful
- Best activities: Fetch, swim, hike, run
Consideration: Labradors are prone to obesity if they don’t get enough exercise, so make sure both breeds get regular physical activity to stay fit and healthy.
3. Golden Retriever
Why they are a great match:Â
Golden Retrievers, like Labradors, are friendly, calm and adaptable. They are very sociable and like to be surrounded by people and other dogs. Golden Retrievers can match the energy of the Australian shepherd during the game, but offer a more casual behavior during downtime. Their intelligence also allows them to follow the mental stimulation that Australian shepherds need.
- Energy levels: Medium to high
- Temperament: Friendly, affectionate and loyal
- Best activities: Swimming, obedience training, fetch
Consideration: Golden Retrievers are a good balance for Australians because they can engage in an energetic game while maintaining a calm demeanor when needed.
4. Shetland Sheepdog
Why they are a great match:Â
Shetland Sheepdogs are another breeding breed that shares many similarities with Australian shepherds. Shelties are smart, energetic and have a strong work ethic. They like problem-solving tasks and agility training, which makes them a great companion for an Australian. Shelties are also smaller than Aussies, which might appeal to owners looking for a smaller second dog.
- Energy levels: High
- Temperament: Intelligent, energetic and loyal
- Best activities: Breeding tests, agility classes, obedience training
Consideration: Both breeds are prone to barking, so regular training from an early age is essential to avoid excessive noise.
5. Corgi (Pembroke or Cardigan)
Why they are a great match:Â
Corgis are lively, affectionate and share the breeding history of the Australian shepherd. Although they are smaller in size, their energy and intelligence make them a good partner for an Australian. Corgis are often full of personality and can manage during recess despite their small size.
- Energy levels: Medium to high
- Temperament: Affectionate, independent and daring
- Best activities: Herd, fetch, walk
Consideration: Corgis are prone to back problems due to their long body, so avoid activities that involve excessive jumping to protect their health.
6. Poodle (Standard or Miniature)
Why they are a great match:Â
Poodles are one of the most intelligent dog breeds, which makes them a perfect match for the mental needs of the Australian shepherd. They are also energetic and like physical and mental challenges. Poodles are available in different sizes (Standard, Miniature and Toy), but standard Poodles are the best size for an Australian. Poodles are perfect for families who want an active but more hypoallergenic companion.
- Energy levels: High
- Temperament: Intelligent, playful and versatile
- Best activities: Agility training, swimming, obedience training
Consideration: Poodles require regular grooming, which can take a long time.
7. Dalmatian
Why they are a great match:Â
Dalmatians are known for their high energy level and endurance. Like Australian shepherds, they need a lot of physical exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy. Dalmatians are playful, loyal and like to be active, which makes them a great partner for the energy and work ethic of Australians.
- Energy levels: High
- Temperament: Energetic, loyal and playful
- Best activities: Running, fetch, hiking
Consideration: Dalmatians are prone to deafness, so it is essential to choose a healthy puppy from a responsible breeder.
8. German Shepherd
Why they are a great match:Â
German shepherds are another breeding breed known for their intelligence, loyalty and work ethic. They are versatile dogs that can engage in a variety of activities, from breeding to obedience and protection training. German shepherds can match the energy and need for mental stimulation of the Australian shepherd, which makes them an excellent choice for homes with an active lifestyle.
- Energy levels: High
- Temperament: Loyal, protective and intelligent
- Best activities: Agility, obedience training, breeding
Consideration: Both breeds are protective, so early socialization is essential to avoid overprotective behaviors.
9. Jack Russell Terrier
Why they are a great match:Â
Although small, Jack Russell terriers are full of energy and intelligence. Their high energy level makes them a good partner for an Australian shepherd in terms of play time and exercise. Jack Russells are fearless and adventurous, enjoying outdoor activities and mental challenges.
- Energy levels: High
- Temperament: Lively, bold and intelligent
- Best activities: Agility, fetch, running
Consideration: Jack Russells can have a strong drive for prey, so training and supervision around small pets are essential.
10. Collie
Why they are a great match:Â
Collie dogs are gentle, intelligent, family-oriented dogs with a calm Temperament. They share a breeding experience with Australian shepherds, which makes them instinctively compatible. Although Collies are more laid-back than Australians, they still enjoy physical activity and mental stimulation. Their calm nature can complement the high energy of the Australian shepherd, creating a balanced family dynamic.
- Energy levels: Medium
- Temperament: Sweet, loyal and intelligent
- Best activities: Herd, walk, fetch
Consideration: Collies have long coats that require regular grooming to avoid pigtails.
Key Considerations for multi-dog households
When introducing a new dog to a home with an Australian shepherd, it is important to:
- Ensure early socialization: Both breeds must be socialized early to avoid any problems of dominance or aggression.
- Exercise Needs: Prepare for the high Energy levels of both races. Daily physical activity and mental stimulation are essential for both dogs in order to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
- Training: Both breeds must follow constant training from an early age. This facilitates communication and ensures that they understand the rules of the household.
- Compatibility: Always present dogs in a neutral setting to evaluate their initial compatibility. Supervised play sessions will help determine
