General Description: (Australian Sheepdog, Kelpie, Barb, Australischer Kelpie) Australian Kelpies are working dogs with compact bodies that are built for stamina and endurance. They are just longer than they are tall, and they have broad chests and well-developed limbs. Their sturdy hind quarters give energy and agility to their appearance. Australian Kelpies have a long, narrow head and wide-set, pricked ears. Their feet are compact and have well-arched toes, and their low set tail is of medium length. Australian Kelpies exist in a number of coat colors including black and red, and fawn, blue, or chocolate. Tan markings may be prevalent. Australian Kelpies have a double coat that consists of a hard, straight outer coat and a short, dense undercoat.
Character: Australian Kelpies are an energetic working breed that has incredible stamina and enthusiasm. The most popular and successful of all working dogs, Australian Kelpies are happiest when given a job to do. Because of their intensity, this breed isn’t suited for indoor or apartment life. They are easily trained and naturally passionate about their work. Australian Kelpies are generally good with children, but they have a tendency to take orders from just one person. Even from a great distance, Australian Kelpies will respond to a signal or command from their owner. They make great watchdogs and they can be trained to become seeing-eye dogs. While the Australian Kelpie isn’t aggressive, he will protect and guard his family and property. This breed will try to herd other dogs, pets, and animals and they will work until they drop. If an Australian Kelpie isn’t given enough space or training, he is likely to become bored and destructive.
Size: 17 – 20 inches
Weight: 25 – 45 pounds
General Health: Some lines of Australian Kelpies are prone to PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) which causes partial to total blindness. Typically, Australian Kelpies live for 10 to 14 years, and they average 4 to 7 puppies per litter.
History: Many believe the Australian Kelpie is a cross between the Australian Dingo and the Border Collie, but documentation reveals the breed actually developed from English North Country Collies of the Rutherford strain. Like many other herding breeds, the English North Country Collies were imported to Australia in the latter half of the 19th century. Nearly 100,000 Australian Kelpies live in Australia. The name “Kelpie” comes from the water kelpie that was mentioned y Robert Louis Stevenson in the novel Kidnapped. Australian Kelpies have been acknowledged since 1870.
Maintenance: Australian Kelpies have a coat that is easy to groom and maintain. They should be bathed only as necessary to avoid removing the natural oils in their hair and skin. An occasional combing and brushing is sufficient to assist the shedding process. Australian Kelpies are average shedders.
Ideal Environment: Australian Kelpies are working dogs that need rigorous exercise and a job to do. Because of their stamina and high energy level, Australian Kelpies aren’t recommended for a small household or apartment. Their weather-resistant coat allows them to live in a variety of climates and harsh weather conditions. This breed is satisfied to live in sheltered outdoor areas. They are happiest with at least a large backyard.
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