Australian Kelpie

  • Dog Breed Group: Companion Dogs
  • Recommended for: Active People

  • Maintenance Level: High

  • Life Span: 11-15 years

  • Height: 43-51 cm

  • Weight: 14-20 kg

  • Temperament: Very Active, Intelligent
  • Hypoallergenic: Yes

  • Colors: Colours: Black, red, chocolate, blue

Adaptability
Friendliness
General Health
Trainability
Exercise Needs

Australian Kelpie Breed overview 

The Australian Kelpie is a medium dog that was originally bred in order to muster and drove livestock. They are considered as intelligent and skilled dogs that have a very rich history.

Australian Kelp contains the compact body and broad chest. Lower body is muscular and the tail is medium sized. Most Kelpies have a double coat with a short undercoat that is covered by a straight overcoat.

They come in different colours such as:

  • Chocolate
  • Blue
  • Fawn
  • Red
  • Black

They were originally bred in order to work, that is why they are energetic and you have to exercise and walk them frequently. You should jog or take it for a walk once a day, because that way he keeps mind and body healthy and active.

  • Suitability for Children – Medium
  • Tendency to Bark – High
  • Energy – High
  • Suitability as a Guard Dog – High
  • Grooming Requirements –  Once a Week
  • Amount of hair shed –  Heavy
  • Food Cost –  $10 to $ 15
  • Average Monthly Pet insurance Premium – $58
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Origin of Australian Kelpie

The Kelpie is derived from black dogs that were called Collies. They were imported in Australia in the 19th century and crossbred with other dogs in order to get Australian Kelpie. The first example was reported in 1872, and Jack Gleeson, the man who found it, named him as mythological being in Scotland Kelpie.

Australian Kelpi Temperament

The Australian Kelpie is widely recognized because of enthusiasm, energy and work ethics. That is the main reason why you should not choose it if you are not active that much. Inactivity can cause behavioural problems, so you have to keep him occupied.
They are very intelligent and easy to train. They are not only great workers but have amazing agility trials and they can jump really high.

Common Australian Kelpie Conditions and Diseases

Progressive retinal atrophy –– This particular condition is inherited and refers to a serious eye condition that could cause blindness. In the early stages, Australian Kelpie will lose only night vision, but the disease will spread after a while.

Interesting Facts

  • Australian Kelpie holds a world record in jumping which is 2.95 meters.
  • During the World War II, a stray Australian Kelpie alerted Australian Air Force that Japanese are coming.

More photos of Australian Kelpie