Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Will An Australian Shepherd Get Along With Other Dogs? 5 Socialization Tips

Australian Shepherds snow

Australian Shepherds, commonly known as Aussies, are a popular breed known for their high energy and herding instincts. Due to their protective and loving nature, these highly intelligent dogs are easily trained and often used as service dogs. While the Aussie is known for being naturally friendly, some are feistier than others. Whether Australian Shepherds get along with other dogs is directly tied to how well they are socialized as puppies and whether the two dogs are properly introduced. Well-trained Australian Shepherds will generally get along with other dogs.

divider single dog paw oct 2024

Are Australian Shepherds Friendly?

Australian Shepherds are generally known for being friendly dogs. They are outgoing and affectionate, and they enjoy being around other dogs most of the time. However, an Aussie’s behavior around humans and other animals can vary greatly between individual dogs.

Some Australian Shepherds love to meet new humans and dogs, while others are shy and prefer to be alone. They aren’t known for being aggressive and will typically retreat from socialization when they aren’t interested rather than pick a fight. While they don’t look for trouble, Aussies are herding dogs with high energy levels. Their personality can sometimes cause them to clash with humans and other dogs that they aren’t familiar with.

Cute australian shepherd dog at kitchen, modern interior
Image Credit: OlgaOvcharenko, Shutterstock

Australian Shepherds and Other Dogs

While Australian Shepherds are usually good-natured dogs, they can be protective and require socialization at a young age. However, most Aussies can live with other high-energy pups and calmer breeds. Breeds that are more laidback than the Aussie, like the Labrador Retriever, Bernese Mountain Dog, Golden Retriever, or Beagle, make great companions. Aussies can get along with other herding breeds, like other Aussies, Australian Cattle Dogs, or Border Collies, but it’s extremely important to introduce them properly and slowly. This will prevent any scuffles.

As herding dogs, Australian Shepherds are affectionate and loving to animals and people whom they consider part of their pack, but they aren’t always accepting of strangers. Their instincts make them a bit bossy of other dogs, as they are inclined to “herd” them into place. Some dogs have no problem with this behavior, but others are not as accommodating.

divider dog paws 4 oct 2024

How to Help an Aussie Get Along With Other Dogs

two australian shepherds
Image Credit: Nordwind, Pixabay

The best way to ensure that your Aussie gets along with other dogs is to socialize them at a young age. Puppies should start the socialization process between 3 and 12 weeks of age. If you have an older Aussie that wasn’t properly socialized as a pup, it will take extra time and patience to get them used to being around people and other dogs. It’s important to have realistic expectations. If you have a shy dog that doesn’t like strangers, you can improve their behavior, but they may never be overly affectionate to others.

If you have other dogs, socialization is fairly easy, as there is constant exposure to other animals. If your Australian Shepherd is the only pet in the home, you’ll need to put in more effort. There are several things that you can do to socialize your Australian Shepherd and improve their acceptance of other dogs:

  • Walking — In addition to satisfying the need for exercise, walking your dog gives them the opportunity to meet other people and other dogs.
  • Dog training — The controlled environment of a training class is a great opportunity to spend time with other dogs.
  • Dog parks — Whether taking your Aussie to a dog park is suitable depends on you and your dog. Some dogs don’t do well in dog parks because it requires interaction with other dogs with bad manners or poor training. Other dogs do quite well, and it gives them a chance to run and play with others.
  • Positive reinforcement of good manners and behavior — Aussies are intelligent dogs, and they respond well to being rewarded for good behavior. Make sure your dog knows that they have responded appropriately to another dog by praising and rewarding the interaction.
  • Know your dog — Australian Shepherds are sensitive dogs that shut down when they become overwhelmed. They can also be prone to anxiety if they are pushed before they are ready. Knowing when your dog has had enough, needs to retreat into a quiet space, or wants to be left alone can go a long way toward preventing negative interactions in the future.

If you want more advice on how to socialize your dog, a vet can help you guide you on all of these things so don’t hesitate to consult with them.

If you need to speak with a vet but can't get to one, head over to PangoVet. It's an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!

PangoVet_Mention-in-Content Savings V1

divider dog paws 3 oct 2024

Final Thoughts

For the most part, Australian Shepherds get along with other dogs, but not always. They are often wary of strangers and strange dogs, especially if they were not socialized properly at a young age. Having realistic expectations of your dog and allowing them to set the pace of the interaction will help you avoid negative social situations. Give them time and space to adjust, and reward positive behavior. Aussies are wonderful companions who are loyal and attentive, but they require you to be sensitive to their needs.


Featured Image Credit: Lightman Pic, Shutterstock

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

2 Responses

  1. My daughter adopted an ausie and she growling at my 5 year old poodle and we're keeping my dog put in the kennel and she's not use to being locked up that much. Any sugestions?

    1. Hello Kathy,

      thank you for your question and sorry for a delayed answer. I am sorry to hear about this situation. There is always a risk with adopting an adult dog. In your case it would be worth it to try to properly introduce or re-introduce your dogs. We have some very good guide articles on this topic, so feel free to read those.
      Another option I would recommend is to book a video-call appointment with one of our professional vets from PangoVet. 20-minute call costs just $29.95 so you can simply go to https://www.pangovet.com and book an appointment at your convenience.

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

Miniature Australian Shepherd vs. Australian Shepherd: The Differences (With Pictures)

Australian Shepherds and Miniature Australian Shepherds are undeniably similar, but a few key differences set them apart, despite their shared history. The Australian...

Miniature Australian Shepherd vs. Australian Shepherd

American Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd: The Differences (With Pictures)

While these breeds are very similar, there are distinct differences between them, and it’s not just their size. The American Shepherd is a...

American Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd

Miniature Australian Shepherd: Info, Pictures, Traits & History

You’ve likely heard of the Australian Shepherd, but did you know that there was a miniature version? They are small to medium in...

blue merle miniature australian shepherd by the beach

Do Australian Shepherds Bark a Lot? How Much & How to Stop It

Thinking about adopting an Australian Shepherd? If so, you may have heard that they bark a lot. But is this true for all...

Australian shepherd dog with mouth open vocalizing and barking

More related

Australian Shepherd puppy running

How Fast Can Australian Shepherds Run? Vet-Verified Facts

Australian Shepherds, being very active and energetic dogs, absolutely love to run. They are naturally talented sprinters, which makes them great at herding...

blue-merle-australian-shepherd-in-the-forest

Blue Merle Australian Shepherd: Info, Pictures, Origin & History

Australian Shepherds are a popular dog breed among people who keep livestock and people with active lifestyles. Sometimes, they are confused with Border...

Red Merle Australian Shepherd

How Big Do Australian Shepherds Get? Average Weight & Growth Chart

Australian Shepherds are energetic and protective of their families. They’re hard workers and often used as service dogs. They’re also affectionately known as...

sick australian shepherd dog lying on grass

Why Does My Australian Shepherd Whine So Much? 6 Likely Reasons

Herding dogs may nip at your heels and others may be excessive barkers. Sometimes, these breed-specific behaviors or traits can be concerning or...

Keep reading

Can Dogs Eat Alfalfa? Vet-Verified Facts to Know

Alfalfa is an important grazing plant that feeds livestock worldwide. Many people wonder, can dogs can eat alfalfa? The short answer is yes, alfalfa is a healthy food for dogs. However, there are a few factors to consider before making...

Can Dogs Eat Alfalfa

Scrumbles Dog Food Review 2025: An Expert’s Breakdown

* Save 15% With Subscribe & Save Searching for the perfect dog food can be a challenge. Sometimes you think you’ve got it, and a suddenly fussy dog turns his nose up at dinner, and you’re back to square one....

DOG_SAPR_Scrumbles Dog Food

11 Best Grain-Free Puppy Foods in 2025: Reviews & Top Picks

To help your puppy get the best possible start in life, you must feed them an appropriate diet. Puppies grow incredibly quickly compared to humans and the food they eat is designed to provide them with all the nutrients they...

Maltipoo-puppy-eats-from-a-metal-bowl

How to Switch Your Dog’s Food: 6 Vet-Approved Steps

When we choose a dog food, we might not consider that our dog won’t be a match for one reason or another. Or perhaps you haven’t had the results with the dog food that you are currently on and want...

fluffy dog eating dry kibble from elevated bowl

Nutra Complete Dog Food Review 2025: An Expert’s Breakdown

I had the opportunity to try two recipes from Ultimate Pet Nutrition’s Nutra Complete line, their Premium Beef Dog Food and their Premium Pork Dog Food. Each of these products is made with US-sourced meat, 100% freeze-dried for maximum nutrition,...

SPRR-ultimate-pet-nutrition-dog-sitting-with-food

Rachael Ray Dog Food Review 2025: Recalls, Pros & Cons

Review Summary Celebrity chef Rachael Ray has created a line of dog foods that feature some of her best recipes. This is a line of all-natural dog food that is considered to be high-quality and full of ingredients that can...

Dogster_Rachael Ray Dog Food Review

4health Puppy Food Review 2025: Pros, Cons & Recalls

Review Summary 4health has several recipes of pet food available for dogs and cats. There are three dry puppy foods and one canned puppy food available from this line. Many other recipes are said to be suitable for all life...

Dogster_4health Puppy Food Review

WholeHearted Dog Food Review 2025: Pros, Cons & Our Verdict

WholeHearted is a line of dog foods owned and operated by Petco, one of the largest pet retailers in the United States. A healthy food that appeals to a wide audience, it’s a fairly new brand that continues to expand...

Dogster_WholeHearted Dog Food Review