The Australian Kelpie is a very lively, intelligent, and active dog. The FCI categorizes it in Group 1, Sheepdogs and Cattledogs. In this article, you will learn everything important about this special four-legged friend. Originally, as the name suggests, it comes from Australia. Here you will find all the important information about these special furry companions.

History of the Australian Kelpie

In its homeland Australia, the Australian Kelpie is still used today for herding sheep. The ancestors of this breed are said to be Scottish collies, which served the same purpose. Six of these were brought to Australia in 1870. From that point on, numerous sheep breeders tried to crossbreed them with English sheepdogs. It is still unclear which breed the latter belonged to. A peculiarity is that the first female resulting from this crossbreeding was named Kelpie. This is why the current designation originated.

In 1902, the Australian Kelpie was finally officially recognized, and breed standards were defined.

Appearance of the Australian Kelpie

At first glance, many people think of a fox when they see an Australian Kelpie. This is because the head shape is quite similar. These furry friends have almond-shaped and mostly brown eyes. However, there can be various deviations. For example, there are indeed Australian Kelpies with light eyes or blue fur.

They are medium-sized and comparatively muscular. Males can grow up to 51 centimeters tall, and females up to 48 centimeters. Large specimens weigh up to 20 kilograms. Most Australian Kelpies have a short yet dense undercoat. This enabled them to easily herd sheep even in wet and cold weather. The color of the animals’ fur can vary greatly, including smoke blue, red, chocolate brown, or cream.

Nature and Character

The Australian Kelpie is very lively and spirited. It presents itself very confidently even to strangers. However, one should gain its trust before getting too involved. Once the Australian Kelpie has accepted a person, its very strong protective instinct becomes evident. It tries to keep its family and all other people it has taken to heart safe from any dangers. The Kelpie is a very good family dog and gets along well with even the smallest children. They can stroke and play with him without any problems.

However, as with many other herding dogs, it is necessary to engage with him sufficiently. Because the Kelpie has a lot of energy that it wants to get rid of. So you should consider joining a dog sports club and regularly practicing agility or exercises with your four-legged friend. He will thank you for it and be much more balanced as a result. Likewise, by doing the exercises together, you strengthen your bond.

What does an Australian Kelpie look like?

The Australian Kelpie resembles a fox. The fur is short, and the eyes are mostly brown. The head shape also reminds one of a fox. These medium-sized dogs give a very elegant impression. The hair is slightly thinner on the head than on the neck, for example.

Is an Aussie a family dog?

Yes, among other things, the Australian Kelpie can also live easily in a family with children. Because it is very people-oriented and takes care of its bipeds as well as it can.

How much exercise does an Australian Kelpie need?

The Australian Kelpie is a true working animal with a very pronounced need for movement. Likewise, it also needs to be mentally challenged. Several daily walks should be the basic program. Additionally, on weekends, you should visit a dog sports club and perform various exercises with your furry friend.

What should I consider when buying?

Once you have found a potential Kelpie, contact the seller. There, you should be able to see the animals along with the mother or father animal. Check their health condition. If all puppies seem alert and lively to you, this is an important first point. Likewise, you should look at the pedigree. If several names appear multiple times, it may indicate inbreeding.

In that case, you should steer clear of this seller and look elsewhere instead. Inbreeding can quickly lead to physical problems. And you want to buy a healthy dog who will live happily in your home for many years. Also, inquire about the most important things to consider when keeping an Australian Kelpie. A reputable breeder will provide you with as much information as you need and advise you free of charge and in detail.

How much does an Australian Kelpie cost?

A purebred Australian Kelpie costs between $1,000 and $1,300. Depending on the color, the price may vary slightly. Also, note that you will need the appropriate accessories if you want to buy such a dog. These include, for example, food, a dog bed, or a leash.

Additionally, there are regular visits to the veterinarian, which also cost money.

Development and Training of the Puppy

The Australian Kelpie thrives when given ample exercise. A large garden can certainly aid in this. It doesn’t matter whether you’re single, in a partnership, or even retired. However, the Australian Kelpie feels most at home in a family environment with children. If you have other pets, you should slowly introduce your new furry friend to them from the beginning. This means regularly taking both of them, for example, into the garden, where they can sniff each other out in peace.

Like many other puppies, the Australian Kelpie is initially quite wild. Cats, for example, might react skittishly. Intervene calmly and with a gentle voice to show him how to behave better.

The Australian Kelpie primarily appeals to people who have owned a dog before. As mentioned above, they are very independent, active, and spirited dogs. Build a good connection with such a dog, and you’ll have a partner by your side for a lifetime.

Activities with the Australian Kelpie

The Australian Kelpie has a lot of energy. He can expend it, for example, on extensive walks, retrieving, or various dog sports like agility, flyball, or obedience. Similarly, engage with him at home. He enjoys various games, including ones where he has to search for objects.

However, the natural talent of this breed is herding. There are special courses for this as well. These are often referred to as performance herding, and your furry friend must pass an exam at the end of the course. You and your four-legged friend must lead a flock of sheep over a special terrain as in real life. Some obstacles are deliberately set up, but they should not deter your Kelpie.

If you keep him as a family dog, you should regularly take long walks in different places. A small apartment is less suitable for this purpose. He should have enough space to move around, even within your own four walls. A house with a large garden is much better suited.

Care of an Australian Kelpie

The Australian Kelpie is a relatively low-maintenance dog. He has short fur that you only need to brush occasionally to remove any dirt or tangles. This also removes excess hair. In autumn and spring, there is a relatively large coat change, which prepares the Kelpie ideally for the next season. When grooming the dog, you should also pay attention to the paws. Check them after every walk and remove any stones, sticks, or other objects that may have been accidentally picked up.

Health and Genetic Diseases

There are no typical genetic diseases in Kelpies. Occasionally, you may hear about a condition called cerebral abiotrophy. This affects the cerebellum, and the animals lose their balance. Some individuals also experience motor failures. If you notice any of these, you should immediately consult a veterinarian to have your furry friend examined more closely.

How Long Do Australian Kelpies Live?

Australian Kelpies typically live between twelve and fourteen years.

Interesting Facts

The Australian Kelpie was created through a targeted crossbreeding of Scottish Collies and English herding dogs. He was named after the first female that resulted from this.

Conclusion

The Australian Kelpie is a medium-sized dog that needs a lot of exercise. He can be used for herding sheep and is also an excellent family dog. He is very affectionate with children and protects his loved ones with all he has.