Australian Kelpie Dog Breed Information:
The Australian Kelpie was originally bred to have the energy, intelligence, and independence to herd livestock all day in the hot Australian climate without much need for supervision. They retain those qualities to this day. People still use Australian Kelpies across Australia and the United States for their herding instincts.
Australian Kelpie Dog Breed Group: Herding Dogs.
Australian Kelpie Height: 15 to 20 inches.
Australian Kelpie Weight: 25 to 46 pounds.
Australian Kelpie Life Span: 10 to 15 years.
More About This Dog Breed:
The Australian Kelpie is always ready to work. These dogs were made to withstand the heat and rugged conditions of Australia and work tirelessly all day to round up livestock, and they are still used for that purpose today.
In Australia and the United States, the Australian Kelpie is still used to help herd livestock with little need for supervision. The Australian Kelpie coat can come in several different colors, including black, chocolate, red, smokey blue, and fawn, and some also have tan markings.
Australian Kelpie History:
The Australian Kelpie begins, as you might imagine, in Australia. Black Collies were imported to the continent to herd livestock in the 1800s from Britain and were crossbred with other breeds that likely even included wild dingoes. The resulting breed was hardy, able to withstand the tough climate of the continent, and capable of working practically nonstop.
The first dog to be called "Kelpie" was bought by a man named Jack Gleeson in 1872 from a Scottish man named George Robertson, and was named after a shape-shifting water spirit from Celtic mythology that could appear as a horse or human. The breed was crossbred with many others since then to become the modern Australian Kelpie we know today.
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Australian Kelpie Size:
Australian Kelpies are medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 25 and 46 pounds. They usually measure 15 to 20 inches at the shoulder. Individuals of the breed may be smaller or larger
Australian Kelpie Personality:
Australian Kelpies have an independent streak that is very beneficial for herding work, but it also means that they need to be mentally challenged, or they may grow bored and engage in destructive behavior.
Australian Kelpies are not overly trusting of strangers, and they are very territorial. Although this makes them great watchdogs who will bark at any sign of danger, it also means they need socialization training from an early age, and it may be best for them if neighboring pets are not allowed to wander on the property.
Australian Kelpie Health:
The Australian Kelpie's health is generally good. The breed may be genetically predisposed to a few conditions that owners should watch out for, however. These include:
Cryptorchidism.
Hip dysplasia.
Progressive retinal atrophy.
Collie eye anomaly.
Cerebellar abiotrophy
Australian Kelpie Care:
Australian Kelpies require fairly little regular care. Their nails will usually file down naturally as they walk, though they should be checked for damage and trimmed if necessary.
Australian Kelpie Feeding:
You should consult your veterinarian or professional nutritionist for advice on what to feed your Australian Kelpie and the correct portion sizes.
Australian Kelpie Coat Color And Grooming:
Australian Kelpie coats can be short, rough, or smooth and come in several different beautiful colors. They can be black, red, chocolate, black with tan markings, red with tan markings, smokey blue, or fawn. Australian Kelpies tend to shed more heavily in the spring, so they may need extra brushing during that time.
Australian Kelpie with Children And Other Pets:
The Australian Kelpie can make it hard for them to live with small children or other pets, as they have a tendency to nip in order to round up whoever or whatever they feel needs to be herded. If you plan to adopt an Australian Kelpie into your family, make sure you are prepared to give them the training they need to provide everyone with a safe and positive living environment, including your new pup.