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Australian Kelpie Facts
Did you just bring home a new Australian Kelpie puppy and want to learn more about the breed? Or maybe you are thinking about buying a puppy and want to know if this
is the right breed for you?
No matter what your situation may be, you will find the answers to your questions right here!
History
The breed, also known as Barb or just Kelpie, is a descendant of British and Scottish collies. The breed originated in mid-to-late 1800s. Some feel that native Australian dogs, Dingos, were also involved in creation of the breed.
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.
| Height | Weight | ||
| Male | 17 to 20 inches | 26 to 45 pounds | |
| Female | 17 to 20 inches | 26 to 45 pounds |
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
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 they are qualified.
Activity and Exercise
This 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
Progressive Retinal Atrophy, causing partial or full blindness, is one of the concerns.
To avoid the above and many other problems, buy only from reputable Australian Kelpie breeders.
Life Expectancy
The average life expectancy is 10 to 14 years.
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