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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Australian Kelpie
The Australian Kelpie has a compact body and well-developed limbs. The skull is
slightly rounded and broad between the ears. The muzzle is well-chiseled and well-defined.
The color of the nose should coincide with the color of the coat. The teeth should
meet in a scissors bite. The color of the almond-shaped eyes should be brown, but
a lighter color eye is acceptable with blue-gray dogs. The ears should be widely-spaced,
pricked and come to a fine point at the tip. The neck should be moderate in length,
strong and slightly arched. The forelegs are straight and parallel and the hindquarters
should show breadth and strength. The tail should reach the hock and may be raised
slightly when the dog is excited and be furnished with a good brush. Coat colors
include black and red, each with or without tan, fawn, chocolate and blue.
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Temperament
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The Kelpie is robust, enthusiastic and a tireless working dog. The Kelpie is the
most popular and successful working dog due to its excellent herding techniques.
They are a one-man dog and are considered workaholics. They will respond to any
signal given by its master, even from a great distance. They are good with children
if they are raised with them. They will herd other dogs, pets, family members, joggers,
bikes, cars and anything else that moves. This dog will work until he drops. Boredom
is the breed's doom and the owner's as well. They become quite destructive when
not given enough work to do. This breed can work in intense heat and can cover 1,000
to 4,000 acres in a work day. They make excellent watchdogs and many have been used
as seeing-eye dogs. The Kelpie is not aggressive, but can be protective when necessary.
They need a strong and confident owner who can take charge.
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Height, Weight
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Height: 17-20" ; Weight: 25-45 lbs.
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Health Problems
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A major health concern is PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy). Other concerns include
genetic bone disorder and hip dysplasia.
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Living Conditions
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It is not recommended to keep a Kelpie in an apartment. They are a working breed,
need plenty of room to run and are happiest when they have a job to do. Their all-weather
coat allows them to live in any climate.
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Exercise
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Kelpies must have vigorous exercise as their energy level is very high. These workaholic
dogs will become destructive if they become bored.
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Life Expectancy
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About 10-14 years
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Grooming
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Occasional brushing is recommended. Bathe only when necessary. They are average
shedders.
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Origin
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The Australian Kelpie was developed from English North Country Collies of the Rutherford
strain. They were imported to Australia during the latter part of the 19th century.
There are nearly 100,000 Kelpies working on the continent of Australia. Though they
are small, this breed is capable of working cattle, goats, poultry and reindeer.
They excel in competitive obedience. This breed is recognized by the FCI, UKC and
the CKC.
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Group
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Herding
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