Are Blue Heelers Good With Other Dogs? 5 Influencing Factors (2024)

An adult Blue Heeler dog relaxing among fallen autumn leaves.

Blue Heelers are smart and friendly dogs. They are bred to be working dogs that herd and protect livestock. They are social and active and do well as family pets.

They get along well with other dogs. Owners should socialize and train Blue Heelers as puppies to ensure they will fit into their family well.

Are Blue Heelers good with other dogs? Blue Heelers are very social and friendly dogs. They prefer to be in the company of people and other dogs. As long as they are socialized and properly trained from an early age, Blue Heelers can get along very well with other dogs.

If you are thinking about adopting a Blue Heeler and want to make sure your new puppy will get along well with other dogs, read on to learn more.

Blue Heelers and Other Dogs – What To Know

Blue Heelers are friendly and nonaggressive toward other dogs. They enjoy running and playing with other dogs that can match their energy levels.

They should be introduced to other dogs at an early age and socialized often to ensure they bond and get along well with other dogs in your home. 

General Blue Heeler Temperament

Blue Heelers are friendly, loyal, affectionate, and energetic. They do well with people and other dogs who can keep up with them when they run and play.

They are not aggressive toward other dogs or people unless they feel threatened.

Socialization Plays an Important Role

It is important to socialize Blue Heelers as puppies so they learn how to behave around other dogs and people.

Blue Heelers can be shy and protective, but when properly socialized, they quickly make friends and become happy and affectionate.

Blue Heeler Herding Instincts

Blue Heelers are bred to be herding dogs, and their natural herding instinct is strong. They may try to herd other animals and even young children.

Proper training will correct this behavior and allow them to socialize properly. 

Blue Heeler Protective Nature

Because Blue Heelers are bred to be herding dogs and protect their flock, they have a very protective nature.

They may guard other dogs and can be very loyal and protective of other animals that live in the home. 

A Lot Depends on the Other Dog’s Temperament

While Blue Heelers are very social and friendly, the temperament of the other dog also determines how well the pets get along.

The other dog must also be accepting, friendly, and properly trained.

If the other dog shows signs of aggression toward the Blue Heeler, the Blue Heeler may feel threatened and act aggressively as well.

Are Blue Heelers Aggressive Toward Other Dogs?

If Blue Heelers are not properly socialized or trained, they can be aggressive toward other dogs.

Because Blue Heelers are bred to lead and protect a herd, if they are not properly trained, they may assert their dominance around other dogs.

Blue Heelers that are introduced to other dogs at a young age are often friendly and accepting of other dogs.

Two cute Blue Heeler puppies running across a green lawn.

What Dogs Do Blue Heelers Get Along With?

Blue Heelers can get along with any dog breed as long as they have been properly socialized. They do best with dogs that are a similar size and have the same high energy levels.

Blue Heelers love to run, play, and even wrestle with other dogs that will tolerate or enjoy the same activities.

Are Blue Heelers Good With Small Dogs?

If properly socialized, Blue Heelers are good with small dogs. Their rambunctious spirit may be intimidating to some smaller breeds, but they are not likely to act aggressively toward them.

Blue Heelers do have a herding instinct that can kick in if they are not properly trained.

Are Blue Heelers Jealous Dogs?

Blue Heelers can get along fine with other dogs and are great family dogs, but they can also be jealous.

They tend to form a close bond with one person and can act jealous when that person shows affection toward other pets or people.

Proper training and socialization can help them become more comfortable with shared affection. 

Do Blue Heelers Get Along With Other Heelers?

Blue Heelers do get along with other heelers and appreciate having a friend that can match their energy level and keep up with them while playing.

What’s the Best Companion for a Blue Heeler?

The best companion for a Blue Heeler is another Heeler or any other breed that is similar in size and can match their high energy levels.

Blue Heelers love to run, play, and wrestle, and having another dog that can keep up with them will ensure both dogs are happy. 

Related Questions: 

Are Blue Heelers Good Guard Dogs?

Yes, Blue Heelers are bred to herd and protect livestock, so they make great guard dogs. They will protect their families and homes and can be very vocal to alert their owners when strangers are near.

Are Blue Heelers Good With Cats?

With proper training and socialization, Blue Heelers can get along well with cats.

They do have a natural instinct to chase things that run, so if a cat is scared of the dog and takes off running, a Blue Heeler may chase after it.

Conclusion 

Blue Heelers make great pets and working dogs. They are very loyal, friendly, affectionate, brave, and smart. They train easily, but they are also full of energy and need plenty of exercise.

They get along well with children, dogs, and other animals but do require early socialization and training to help them control their herding instincts and jealousy.