AUSTRALIAN KELPIE

Temperament: Friendly, Energetic, Smart, Eager, Loyal.
Height: 15 to 20 inches
Weight: 25 to 46 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10 to 15 years
Dog Breed Group: Herding Dogs

MORE ABOUT THIS BREED

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. That suits these dogs just fine, as they’re happiest when they have a job to do.

Understand the Kelpie’s working style before you bring him home. Australian Kelpies herd livestock by nipping at the animals’ heels. If they don’t have a flock to manage, they may transfer this behavior to children, other pets, and vehicles such as bicycles and cars.

The good news is that these dogs are easy to train for almost any task, so long as they have a confident, competent trainer who can give positive reinforcement without being too harsh.

Australian Kelpies are fully capable of performing many dog sports, search and rescue work, nose work, service dog duties, and more. They have high energy and high exercise needs. While they can handle doing a job with little supervision, they need human companionship and direction.

PERSONALITY

The Kelpie’s breed standard describes him as extremely alert and eager with a mild, tractable disposition and an almost inexhaustible energy. He is noted for his loyalty and devotion to his work. This is a highly intelligent and capable dog. He likes to have a job to do, and whatever it is, he will do it well.

FEEDING

An Australian Kelpie diet should be formulated for a mid-sized breed with high energy and intense exercise requirements. You should consult your veterinarian or professional nutritionist for advice on what to feed your Australian Kelpie and the correct portion sizes. Their dietary needs will change as they grow from puppyhood to adulthood and senior age. Stay on top of these nutritional requirements.

HEALTH

The Kelpie is a generally healthy breed, but he has some potential health conditions that can be a concern. They include Collie eye anomaly, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cerebellar abiotrophy.

Do not purchase a puppy from a breeder who cannot provide you with written documentation that the parents were cleared of health problems that affect the breed.

Remember that after you’ve taken a new puppy into your home, you have the power to protect him from one of the most common health problems: obesity. Keeping a Kelpie at an appropriate weight is one of the easiest ways to extend his life. Make the most of your preventive abilities to help ensure a healthier dog for life.

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. Teeth should be brushed regularly as recommended by a veterinarian. Their ears should be checked for signs of debris, parasites, or infection and kept clean. Baths should be given as needed.

GROOMING

Brush the Kelpie’s coat once or twice a week to remove dead hair and keep shedding to a minimum. Some Kelpies have a double coat that sheds heavily in the spring. You’ll need to brush him more often to keep the loose hair under control.
Active Australian Kelpies often wear their nails down naturally, but it’s a good idea to check them weekly to see if they need a trim.
Otherwise, just keep the ears clean and give him a bath if he gets dirty. Brush his teeth frequently for good overall health and fresh breath.

Source: dogtime, vetstreet.