Dog Breeds - Australian Kelpie

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of warmth a breed exhibits towards their family members or acquaintances can vary significantly. Certain breeds may seem distant with everyone except their owner whereas others display a friendly disposition towards everyone they recognize treating them as their closest companions.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The friendliness of a breed towards other dogs can vary. While it is essential to supervise interactions and introductions between dogs, certain breeds are naturally more inclined to get along with other dogs, both in a home setting and in public.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The extent to which a breed can tolerate and be patient with children's behavior and their overall compatibility with families can vary. It's important to note that dogs should always be supervised around young children or any children who have limited exposure to dogs.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed tends to leave behind can vary. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing, are more likely to trigger allergies in certain individuals, and may require more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to manage the amount of loose hair.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming needs of a breed can vary in terms of bathing, brushing, trimming or other coat maintenance. When considering a breed it's important to assess the time, patience, and budget you have available for grooming. Keep in mind that all breeds require regular nail trimming.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency of a breed to drool can vary. If you value cleanliness and prefer to avoid dogs that leave ropes of slobber on your arm or big wet spots on your clothes. It may be best to consider breeds that are not prone to excessive drooling.
COAT TYPE +
Smooth, Double
COAT LENGTH +
Short

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of welcoming behavior a breed exhibits towards strangers can vary. Certain breeds may be reserved or cautious around all strangers regardless of the location, while others will display a friendly and enthusiastic attitude towards meeting new humans whenever they are around.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm a breed has for play can vary and may continue past the puppyhood stage. Certain breeds will maintain a strong desire to play games like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. On the other hand some breeds may be content with relaxing on the couch and enjoying quieter activities with their owners most of the time.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Certain breeds have a natural tendency to alert their owners when strangers are around. They are more likely to react to potential threats such as the arrival of the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, it's important to note that these breeds can still warm up to strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family members.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to handle change can vary. Some breeds are more flexible and can easily adjust to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather and daily schedules. These breeds tend to be more resilient and can adapt well to various variations in day-to-day life. Other breeds may be more sensitive to changes and may require a more stable and consistent environment to feel at ease.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things can vary by breed. Some breeds have a strong desire to please their owners and are highly trainable. They are eager to learn and are motivated to make their owner proud. On the other hand, some breeds may exhibit more independent tendencies. They may be less interested in following commands and prefer to do as they please when and where they please. Understanding the breed's general disposition can give you an idea of how easy or challenging the training process may be.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed requires can vary. High-energy breeds are typically energetic and enthusiastic about physical activities. They thrive on running, jumping, and playing and require ample exercise throughout the day to keep them satisfied. On the other hand, low-energy breeds have a more relaxed demeanor and are content with moderate exercise. They are often happy to lounge around and enjoy quieter activities. Understanding a breed's energy level can help in determining the appropriate amount of exercise and mental stimulation they require for their well-being.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency of vocalization, such as barking or howling, can vary among breeds. Some breeds are more prone to barking, frequently alerting their owners to any passerby or movement outside. Others may be more selective in their barking and only vocalize in specific situations or when they feel the need to communicate. It's worth noting that even bark-less breeds may find alternative ways to express themselves, using different sounds or behaviors to communicate their needs or emotions.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The amount of mental stimulation a breed requires to stay happy and healthy can vary. Purpose-bred dogs or those with specific jobs or roles often have a need for mental engagement. These dogs may require activities that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration or specific tasks. Without adequate mental stimulation, they may become bored or restless and may find their own ways to keep their minds occupied which may not align with your preferences. Providing appropriate mental exercises such as puzzle toys training sessions or interactive games can help fulfill their cognitive needs and prevent the development of unwanted behaviors.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of warmth a breed exhibits towards their family members or acquaintances can vary significantly. Certain breeds may seem distant with everyone except their owner whereas others display a friendly disposition towards everyone they recognize treating them as their closest companions.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The friendliness of a breed towards other dogs can vary. While it is essential to supervise interactions and introductions between dogs, certain breeds are naturally more inclined to get along with other dogs, both in a home setting and in public.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The extent to which a breed can tolerate and be patient with children's behavior and their overall compatibility with families can vary. It's important to note that dogs should always be supervised around young children or any children who have limited exposure to dogs.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair a breed tends to leave behind can vary. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing, are more likely to trigger allergies in certain individuals, and may require more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to manage the amount of loose hair.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The grooming needs of a breed can vary in terms of bathing, brushing, trimming or other coat maintenance. When considering a breed it's important to assess the time, patience, and budget you have available for grooming. Keep in mind that all breeds require regular nail trimming.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The tendency of a breed to drool can vary. If you value cleanliness and prefer to avoid dogs that leave ropes of slobber on your arm or big wet spots on your clothes. It may be best to consider breeds that are not prone to excessive drooling.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Smooth, Double

COAT SPECTRUM

Short

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of welcoming behavior a breed exhibits towards strangers can vary. Certain breeds may be reserved or cautious around all strangers regardless of the location, while others will display a friendly and enthusiastic attitude towards meeting new humans whenever they are around.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of enthusiasm a breed has for play can vary and may continue past the puppyhood stage. Certain breeds will maintain a strong desire to play games like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. On the other hand some breeds may be content with relaxing on the couch and enjoying quieter activities with their owners most of the time.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Certain breeds have a natural tendency to alert their owners when strangers are around. They are more likely to react to potential threats such as the arrival of the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, it's important to note that these breeds can still warm up to strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family members.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to handle change can vary. Some breeds are more flexible and can easily adjust to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather and daily schedules. These breeds tend to be more resilient and can adapt well to various variations in day-to-day life. Other breeds may be more sensitive to changes and may require a more stable and consistent environment to feel at ease.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things can vary by breed. Some breeds have a strong desire to please their owners and are highly trainable. They are eager to learn and are motivated to make their owner proud. On the other hand, some breeds may exhibit more independent tendencies. They may be less interested in following commands and prefer to do as they please when and where they please. Understanding the breed's general disposition can give you an idea of how easy or challenging the training process may be.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed requires can vary. High-energy breeds are typically energetic and enthusiastic about physical activities. They thrive on running, jumping, and playing and require ample exercise throughout the day to keep them satisfied. On the other hand, low-energy breeds have a more relaxed demeanor and are content with moderate exercise. They are often happy to lounge around and enjoy quieter activities. Understanding a breed's energy level can help in determining the appropriate amount of exercise and mental stimulation they require for their well-being.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Infrequent

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The amount of mental stimulation a breed requires to stay happy and healthy can vary. Purpose-bred dogs or those with specific jobs or roles often have a need for mental engagement. These dogs may require activities that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration or specific tasks. Without adequate mental stimulation, they may become bored or restless and may find their own ways to keep their minds occupied which may not align with your preferences. Providing appropriate mental exercises such as puzzle toys training sessions or interactive games can help fulfill their cognitive needs and prevent the development of unwanted behaviors.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Black	007
Black & Tan	018
Fawn	082
Red & Tan	250
Red	140
Chocolate	071
Blue	037

PATTERNS

…

About The Breed

The Australian Kelpie is indeed a lithe and active dog with remarkable endurance. Their high energy levels and intelligence make them well-suited for demanding work such as herding livestock. They are highly alert and eager to fulfill their duties. The breed's loyalty and devotion to their work along with their natural instincts enable them to excel in herding tasks whether it's in open fields or enclosed yards. Bred from Collie-type dogs from Scotland the Australian Kelpie has evolved to thrive in the challenging and harsh environmental conditions of Australia's expansive landscapes.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Australian Kelpie: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Most Australian Kelpies are generally healthy dogs. Responsible breeders play a crucial role in maintaining the breed's health by conducting genetic testing on their breeding stock. Genetic testing helps identify potential health issues and allows breeders to make informed decisions when selecting breeding pairs. By working with responsible breeders prospective owners can obtain valuable education about the specific health concerns that may affect Australian Kelpies and ensure that their puppies have a reduced likelihood of inheriting genetic diseases. It's always recommended to choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.

Grooming

	The Australian Kelpie has a double coat, with a short and dense undercoat and a weather-resistant outer coat. The outer coat consists of straight hard hairs that lay flat against the body providing protection against rain. To maintain their coat Kelpies typically require weekly brushing or combing to remove dead hairs and keep their coat in good condition. Occasional baths can also help keep them clean and looking their best. Overall, the Australian Kelpie is considered a relatively low-maintenance breed in terms of grooming needs.

Exercise

	Australian Kelpies are highly energetic and active dogs and they require substantial exercise to be happy and fulfilled. Engaging them in activities such as jogging long workouts or other forms of vigorous exercise is essential on a daily basis. In addition to physical exercise, mental stimulation through obedience lessons or interactive games is crucial to keep their intelligent minds sharp. Kelpies have a strong instinct for herding, which may manifest in their behavior towards other animals or even children. Providing them with a job or purpose can help channel their energy and prevent them from engaging in inappropriate herding behavior. Despite their high energy levels, Kelpies also possess an "off" switch and can relax and enjoy calm activities with their family after a good exercise session. It’s important to note that Australian Kelpies are not well-suited for apartment living due to their need for ample space to expend their boundless energy. They thrive in environments where they have room to run and play. Providing them with a suitable living environment is crucial to their happiness and well-being.

Training

	Providing your dog with exercise can be effectively achieved through training them in dog sports such as agility, obedience and rally. Kelpies, being highly motivated to work, greatly value the mental workout that training provides thereby ensuring their happiness and continued involvement.

Nutrition

	To ensure the Australian Kelpie's well-being feeding them high-quality dog food is recommended. This may either be commercially manufactured or prepared at home under the supervision and approval of your veterinarian. It is important to select a diet appropriate for your Kelpie's age (puppy, adult, or senior) and be cautious of weight management due to their susceptibility to overweight issues. Keeping an eye on their calorie intake and weight is vital to prevent obesity especially when giving treats during training. Acquire knowledge about safe and unsafe human foods for dogs and approach your vet with any concerns regarding your dog's weight or diet.

Historiography

After vast areas of land in the Australian states of New South Wales and Victoria were made accessible the number of sheep witnessed an enormous surge. Some properties expanded to over two million acres, accommodating more than a quarter of a million sheep. Given the extensive size of these areas herding which was initially done by convicts became impractical. Consequently, wire fences were erected allowing sheep to roam freely. However, the management of such large territories required the assistance of dogs. Thus, a breed had to be developed to handle the challenging conditions present in Australia including intense heat, rugged terrain, dust storms, and vast distances. The Kelpie breed emerged as an ideal choice as these dogs proved to be tireless workers capable of performing tasks that would require several men even in the most scorching and dusty climates.

Similar to many breeds, the origins of the Kelpie breed are subject to dispute. Nonetheless, it is certain that the breed's ancestry can be traced back to dogs imported from Scotland. These Scottish dogs were characterized by their black and tan fur, long hair, semi-pricked ears, and medium size resembling Collies. Some of these dogs had smooth coats and erect ears while still exhibiting Collie-like features. Consequently, litters produced by these dogs also included red (liver brown) puppies.