If you're a dog lover, Stanely Coren's ranking of dog intelligence is probably familiar to you. In it, the border collie, the shepherd dog par excellence, appears first, being considered the dog breed with the highest levels of intelligence, since it is capable of understanding new commands with less than 5 repetitions and obeys right off the bat in 95 % of occasions.
However, in addition to its intelligence, the border collie has other characteristics that make it a dog admired and desired by many, such as its medium-sized appearance and black and white tones, and its behavior, characterized by a great curiosity.
Have you considered adopting a border collie or have you already welcomed one of them into your home? If you love dogs, you may prefer to have two instead of one, which is why in this AnimalWised article we talk about the border collie coexistence with other dogs
The behavior of the border collie
The behavior and character of a dog breed defines, in part, the possibility that it can live in harmony with other pets, in this case, with other dogs. However, education and, more specifically, socialization, will be the key factor that will allow our dog to cohabit with others in a harmonious way.
As we mentioned initially, the border collie is a dog that has great curiosity. The best way to channel the prowling instinct is give him a good dose of physical exercise and mental stimulation every day These should be the main care of the border collie, since it is a herding breed that needs physical activity in open spaces and full experimentation of its capabilities.
This is a very tenacious dog but at the same time loyal to its owner, with whom it forms a very strong emotional bond. The border collie is docile, sociable and affectionate, but he is also awake and alert, being a great watchman.
Can the border collie live with other dogs?
Of course yes, although it must be a priority for the owner that this coexistence is harmonious and does not undermine the well-being of any of the dogs that live in the home.
The border collie is usually affectionate even with strange dogs, although obviously this virtue is not given in excess, however, it is a good breed if what you want is to adopt to more than one dog, in this case, coexistence from when both are puppies will always be preferable, but it can also be very interesting to observe how two adult dogs get to know each other and interact.
If, on the other hand, the coexistence is between an adult dog and a new puppy, you must take into account various guidelines to avoid any type of unwanted behavior, such as jealousy.
Which dogs can a border collie live with?
If the border collie has been properly socialized, it will be able to live with any other dog, however, you must bear in mind that the border collie is a very active dog, What does this mean?
If you choose another canine breed whose needs are very different from those of the border collie and whose energy is also very low, you will have two dogs with completely different needs and perhaps the proper care of both will be more complex.
On the other hand, if you have another dog whose energy is more similar to that of the border collie, caring for both animals will be more convenient for you. easier since your needs will be very similar.
Among the most active dog breeds we can highlight the Fox Terrier, the Dalmatian, the Yorkshire Terrier, the Irish Setter, or the Beagle, among others. However, remember that a mestizo you may find in a shelter may also have high energy needs. Especially if you have an adult dog and want to adopt another adult dog, don't hesitate to go to a shelter and find your perfect companion.
