Do Highland Cows Get Along With Other Animals? (Surprising Facts!)
Known for their gentle eyes, shaggy coats, and docile nature, Highland cows are beloved by farmers and animal lovers alike. But if you’re running a mixed farm or homestead, one important question arises: do Highland cows get along with other animals?
The answer? Most of the time, yes — but like any animal, there are important things to consider for safe and happy cohabitation.
(📖 Related: Are Highland Cows Good Pets?)
Highland Cow Temperament
Highland cows are often described as gentle, calm, and intelligent. Unlike some cattle breeds that may be more reactive or skittish, Highlands tend to be easygoing — especially when handled kindly and raised around other animals from a young age.
That said, they are still large animals with strong instincts, meaning thoughtful introductions are key.
Do Highland Cows Get Along With Dogs?
✅ Often, yes — with the right dog.
Highland cows can learn to peacefully coexist with dogs, especially if the dog is:
- Well-trained
- Calm around livestock
- Not prone to chasing or herding without direction
Farm dogs like Border Collies or Australian Shepherds tend to do well, while excitable or aggressive dogs may stress cattle. If introduced slowly, cows and dogs often form a respectful — even curious — relationship.
Tip: Never allow a dog to chase or bark aggressively at a cow. It can stress the cow and lead to defensive behavior.
Highland Cows and Horses
✅ Usually a good match.
Horses and Highland cows often share pastures happily. Both are herd-oriented animals that appreciate companionship. Horses may be curious at first but usually adjust quickly.
Consider:
- Introduce slowly over a fence before pasture sharing.
- Ensure feeding areas are separate to avoid competition.
- Watch horns — Highland cows won’t use them aggressively unless cornered but can accidentally bump another animal.
Do Highland Cows Get Along With Sheep and Goats?
✅ Yes — most of the time.
Sheep, goats, and Highland cows generally coexist well. Since they eat different parts of plants (cows graze, goats browse), they can actually complement each other in pasture rotation.
Key considerations:
- Provide separate shelters — goats especially hate rain.
- Monitor for bullying — cows sometimes nudge smaller animals away from feed.
- Watch mineral supplements — goats need copper; cows don’t. Keep feeds separated.
Highland Cows and Chickens (or Other Poultry)
✅ Yes, with management.
Many homesteaders keep chickens alongside Highland cows. In fact, cows attract flies, which chickens happily eat — a win-win!
Precautions:
- Make sure chickens have safe spaces away from hooves — cows won’t intentionally step on them but accidents happen.
- Protect chicken feed — cows love to sneak into a chicken coop for a snack.
What About Other Cows?
✅ Highland cows are herd animals and prefer the company of other cows, regardless of breed. They bond deeply within herds and benefit from companionship.
Whether raised with other Highland cows or mixed cattle, they generally integrate well as long as space and resources are sufficient.
Are There Any Animals Highland Cows Don’t Get Along With?
Generally, Highland cows adapt well to most farm animals. However, challenges arise when:
- Space is too small — leading to competition and stress.
- Animals are aggressive, poorly socialized, or introduced abruptly.
- Breeding bulls are involved — bulls are more territorial and unpredictable.
Otherwise, their mellow personalities make them one of the most adaptable cattle breeds for multi-animal farms.
Tips for Introducing Highland Cows to Other Animals
- Start introductions through a fence to observe reactions.
- Supervise first shared pasture time carefully.
- Feed separately, especially if sizes are mismatched (e.g., cows vs. goats).
- Make sure shelters are sized appropriately for all animals.
- Regularly check for signs of stress — pacing, chasing, or avoidance.
Final Thoughts
So, do Highland cows get along with other animals? Yes — they’re widely known for their peaceful nature and ability to coexist with horses, sheep, goats, chickens, and even calm dogs.
With a thoughtful introduction and proper management, your Highland cow can become part of a happy, mixed-animal family on your farm or homestead.
Want to learn more about Highland cow behavior? Visit our Highland Cow Facts library for more!
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