Australian Kelpie Facts

Developed to herd sheep, they are still used in that role today all over the world. But they are also very popular as pets.

No other dog had such a big role in the development of Australia's sheep industry as a Kelpie.

Physical Characteristics of Australian Kelpie Dog

This is a medium sized breed. It has a muscular body that is slightly longer than it is tall, a deep chest, a rounded head, almond shaped eyes and large ears. The tail is long and slightly curved downward.

It has a short double coat consisting of a straight outer coat and a dense undercoat. The outer coat is weather-repellent.

Kelpies come in black and red, with or without tan markings. Some have white markings on the chest.

Temperament

The Australian Kelpies are intelligent, energetic and agile. When working, they seem tireless.

Though friendly and devoted to their owners, they tend to be one-person dogs that don't show a lot of affection towards others. They are good with children, provided they were raised with children around.

They are very active and intense at work and mild at home. They seem to know the difference between work and rest!

Kelpies have very strong herding instinct and will try to herd everyone, including humans and other dogs!

One of the worst things that can happen to an Australian Kelpie (and those around him) is boredom. A bored Kelpie becomes noisy and destructive.

Best Owner / Living Conditions

This is an extremely active breed and requires an active owner. It's not suited for an apartment lifestyle.

Some Australian Kelpie breeders may interview prospective owners to make sure this is the right breed for them.

Activity and Exercise

The Australian Kelpie is a very active breed. It always needs to be doing some kind of job. The more exercise or work a Kelpie gets, the easier it is to get along with.

A large, fenced yard will allow your pet to get the exercise that he needs. It's also a good idea to take him for several VERY long walks every day.

Grooming

It's very easy to care for the Australian Kelpie.

The breed is an average shedder and needs only occasional brushing. Same with bathing - if you bathe your pet too often, you will remove the oils that keep his coat weather-repellant. Bathe only when necessary.

Health Concerns

Like all dog breeds, the Australian Kelpie is susceptible to complications caused by parasites such as dog ticks, fleas, and puppy worms, including tapeworms, roundworms, and heartworms.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), causing partial or full blindness, is another concern. Visit dog health problems to learn more about dog diseases and health care.

To reduce the risk of the above and many other health problems, buy only from reputable Australian Kelpie breeders (visit dog breeders to learn how to identify responsible dog breeders).

No matter how small the risk of health problems is, any puppy may get sick or injured. Many health problems will require an immediate attention from your Vet, but there are many others that will not, and you may handle them on your own.

To save time and money, learn how to diagnose and treat dog health problems that don't require your Vet's attention.

Life Expectancy

The average life expectancy is 10 to 14 years.

Did you ever consider adopting your next pet?

If this is the breed you are interested in, and adoption appeals to you, consider contacting your local Australian Kelpie rescue. There are thousands of pets waiting for a loving home and, yes, it's possible to adopt a purebred dog.