Australian Kelpie

History

In the days of early settlement there was a need for a dog that could work all day in the harsh Australian climate. The Kelpie was bred to work sheep. Their hardiness and ability work long hours made them a valuable asset, but it is their devotion and loyalty to their family makes them a suitable pet for modern families.

Description

Compact body and well-developed limbs. Slightly longer than he is tall, the Kelpie has a broad chest and the head is long and narrow.

Grooming and Physical Needs

  • Grooming Needs: Coat care is minimal with only occasional bathing or grooming to keep the coat healthy.
  • Coat Type: Short dense undercoat, the outercoat is close, each hair straight, hard, and lying flat, so that it is rain-resisting.
  • Moulting: Heavy.
  • Exercise Needs: Many people mistakably believe the Kelpie needs hours and hours of exercise – but this is not the case. What the Kelpie needs is mental stimulation.
  • Average Life Span: 10 – 14 years.

Behaviour

  • Family: Devoted, friendly, loyal demeanour makes this breed a perfect companion for a young and active family.
  • Temperament: Oodles of personality, with a wicked sense of humour, they are known for being a bit cheeky and mischievous.
  • Trainability: Easy trainability and dedication, they are ready to respond immediately to any signal given by their owner.
  • Sociability (Other Pets): Live happily with other pets provided they are trained and socialised from an early age.
  • Barking: High Tendency.

Talents

Excels at fly ball and agility also make excellent watchdogs.

Notes

Beware of PRA= Progressive Retinal Atrophy – retinal degeneration causing partial to total blindness.