Australian Kelpie
The Australian Kelpie has a muscular body with strong limbs and a broad chest. They are devoted working bees (or dogs) with boundless energy. The Kelpie is Australia’s most popular and successful working dog particularly when herding sheep, cattle and other livestock. With a weather-resistant double coat, these pups are born to be outdoors.
Country of Origin
Australia
Colour
Black, red, smokey blue, chocolate brown, fawn, black and tan (from dark brown to a light cream), and red and tan.
Size
Medium
Height / Weight
Kelpies weigh between 11 – 20kgs and measure between 43 – 51cms, with males being on the higher end of the spectrum.
Health
Kelpies are at risk of Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), a degeneration of the retinas than can cause partial or total blindness. Owners should also be aware of Microphtalmia and Multiple Colobomas.
Life Span
10-14 years
Intelligence
Australian Kelpies are easy to train and make excellent work dogs, demonstrating their capability in the Australian work force and as herders. They can quickly react to any signal or command given by their owner and are able to respond from a distance. These smart sidekicks are very independent and capable of doing their own thing rather than looking for approval from their owner.
Exercise
High
Suitability (Children)
Medium
Feeding
The Australian Kelpie is fairly easy to feed although their nutrition will have to be increased during periods of work.
Feeding Cost
$10-$15 p/w
Other Cost
Excercise
With boundless energy and great intelligence, these canine chums need plenty of long daily walks, jogs or a great amount of work to keep them entertained. Without enough exercise, they can become easily bored and frustrated.
Hair Shed
Little
Ailments
Kelpies are at risk of Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), a degeneration of the retinas than can cause partial or total blindness. Owners should also be aware of Microphtalmia and Multiple Colobomas.
Grooming
With a thick undercoat and a sturdy outer coat, the Kelpie is easy to groom. Make sure you use a firm bristle brush regularly and only bathe once a month or so. Any more than this and you may remove any natural oils in the weather-resistant coat or dry out the skin.
Grooming Frequency
Once a week
Trimming
Heavy
The exact origin of the Australian Kelpie is a bit of a mystery. Some say they were developed from crossing Scottish sheepdogs with Collies while others hint at crossing Australian Dingoes with domestic dogs. This lively breed is mainly used in Australia and New Zealand for herding and working.
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