Dog Breeds - Working Kelpie

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of warmth exhibited by a breed towards family members or close acquaintances is a crucial aspect to consider. Certain breeds may appear distant and reserved towards everyone except their owners, while others extend their friendliness to everyone they are familiar with treating them like lifelong pals.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The extent to which a breed tolerates and remains patient with children's actions, as well as its overall suitability for families is an important factor to consider. It is advised to always supervise dogs when they are around young children or children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The inherent friendliness of a breed towards other dogs is a significant aspect to consider. While it is crucial to supervise interactions and introductions between dogs, certain breeds tend to have a natural inclination to get along with other dogs, whether it's within the home or in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed is prone to shedding is an important factor to consider. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing have a higher likelihood of triggering specific allergies and will necessitate more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming and other coat maintenance tasks varies among different breeds. It is crucial to consider the amount of time, patience and budget you have available for such care when evaluating grooming requirements. Additionally, it's important to note that regular nail trimming is necessary for all breeds.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency of a breed to drool is another aspect to consider. If you prioritize cleanliness and are a neat freak, it may not be suitable to choose a breed that leaves ropes of slobber on your arm or creates large wet spots on your clothes.
COAT TYPE +
Smooth
COAT LENGTH +
Short

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of friendliness exhibited by a breed towards strangers is an important consideration. Certain breeds may display reserved or cautious behavior around all strangers, regardless of the setting. On the other hand, some breeds will happily welcome a new human whenever they encounter one.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play, even beyond the puppyhood stage is an important aspect to consider. Some breeds will continue to show interest in playing tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. In contrast, others may prefer to spend most of their time relaxing on the couch with you.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
The inclination of a breed to alert you of the presence of strangers is worth considering. Certain breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat, whether it's the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds tend to warm up to strangers who enter the house and are welcomed by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to handle change is a significant factor to consider. This encompasses their ability to adjust to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather, daily schedules and other variations in day-to-day life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The trainability and willingness of a breed to learn new things are essential aspects to consider. Some breeds are eager to please their owners and demonstrate a strong desire to make them proud. On the other hand, some breeds may have a more independent nature and prefer to do as they please, whenever and wherever they want.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed requires is an important consideration. High-energy breeds thrive on regular physical activity and are always ready for their next adventure. They enjoy activities like running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. In contrast, low-energy breeds tend to be more laid-back and content with lounging around and snoozing.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency at which a breed vocalizes, whether through barks or howls is worth considering. Some breeds have a tendency to bark at every passer-by or even at birds in the window, while others limit their barking to specific situations. It's important to note that even some barkless breeds may still be vocal and express themselves through alternative sounds.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The amount of mental stimulation a breed requires to stay happy and healthy is an important consideration. Purpose-bred dogs often have jobs that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other mental qualities. Without adequate mental exercise, they may create their own activities to keep their minds busy, which may not align with your preferences. It is essential to provide appropriate mental stimulation for such breeds to ensure their well-being.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of warmth exhibited by a breed towards family members or close acquaintances is a crucial aspect to consider. Certain breeds may appear distant and reserved towards everyone except their owners, while others extend their friendliness to everyone they are familiar with treating them like lifelong pals.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The extent to which a breed tolerates and remains patient with children's actions, as well as its overall suitability for families is an important factor to consider. It is advised to always supervise dogs when they are around young children or children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The inherent friendliness of a breed towards other dogs is a significant aspect to consider. While it is crucial to supervise interactions and introductions between dogs, certain breeds tend to have a natural inclination to get along with other dogs, whether it's within the home or in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair a breed is prone to shedding is an important factor to consider. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing have a higher likelihood of triggering specific allergies and will necessitate more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming and other coat maintenance tasks varies among different breeds. It is crucial to consider the amount of time, patience and budget you have available for such care when evaluating grooming requirements. Additionally, it's important to note that regular nail trimming is necessary for all breeds.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The tendency of a breed to drool is another aspect to consider. If you prioritize cleanliness and are a neat freak, it may not be suitable to choose a breed that leaves ropes of slobber on your arm or creates large wet spots on your clothes.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Smooth

COAT SPECTRUM

Short

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of friendliness exhibited by a breed towards strangers is an important consideration. Certain breeds may display reserved or cautious behavior around all strangers, regardless of the setting. On the other hand, some breeds will happily welcome a new human whenever they encounter one.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play, even beyond the puppyhood stage is an important aspect to consider. Some breeds will continue to show interest in playing tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. In contrast, others may prefer to spend most of their time relaxing on the couch with you.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

The inclination of a breed to alert you of the presence of strangers is worth considering. Certain breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat, whether it's the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds tend to warm up to strangers who enter the house and are welcomed by their family.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to handle change is a significant factor to consider. This encompasses their ability to adjust to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather, daily schedules and other variations in day-to-day life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The trainability and willingness of a breed to learn new things are essential aspects to consider. Some breeds are eager to please their owners and demonstrate a strong desire to make them proud. On the other hand, some breeds may have a more independent nature and prefer to do as they please, whenever and wherever they want.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed requires is an important consideration. High-energy breeds thrive on regular physical activity and are always ready for their next adventure. They enjoy activities like running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. In contrast, low-energy breeds tend to be more laid-back and content with lounging around and snoozing.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Medium

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The amount of mental stimulation a breed requires to stay happy and healthy is an important consideration. Purpose-bred dogs often have jobs that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other mental qualities. Without adequate mental exercise, they may create their own activities to keep their minds busy, which may not align with your preferences. It is essential to provide appropriate mental stimulation for such breeds to ensure their well-being.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Black	007
Blue	037
Fawn	082
Red	140
Tan	195

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Tan Points	029

About The Breed

The Working Kelpie is described as extremely alert, eager and highly intelligent. They possess a friendly and active disposition, yet are able to relax when needed. With an abundant amount of energy, they are loyal and devoted to their work. These dogs have a natural instinct and natural ability to manage livestock in various settings including open country and yards. They are medium-sized, agile and possess strong muscles, showcasing their ability for tireless work. The Working Kelpie has been utilized to manage different types of livestock and has even been successful in police work, sled pulling and search and rescue. It is important for Kelpies to have companionship and regular exercise. They require mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and undesirable behaviors such as chasing cars. While they can be content staying on a chain for periods, they need regular interaction with their owners and activities such as walks or games. Despite their working background, Working Kelpies can also make great family dogs and get along well with children and other pets.

What to Expect When Caring for A WORKING KELPIE

Owning a dog is indeed a significant responsibility that extends far beyond providing the basic necessities of food and shelter. Dogs as sentient beings require a comprehensive level of care that encompasses physical health emotional well-being, and mental stimulation.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Working 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

	Indeed, the majority of Working Kelpies are generally healthy dogs. Responsible breeders play a crucial role in ensuring the health of the breed by conducting necessary genetic testing of their breeding stock. By engaging with a reputable breeder, potential owners can acquire the education and information they need to be aware of any specific health concerns within the breed. Through genetic testing, breeders aim to minimize the occurrence of inherited diseases and promote the overall well-being of Working Kelpie puppies. Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club:

Grooming

	To maintain your Working Kelpie's smooth coat, which has minimal undercoat, it's sufficient to use a hound mitt from time to time, assisting in the removal of any dried-on dirt. Besides consistent weekly grooming, an occasional bath will ensure your Working Kelpie stays clean and presents their best appearance. Grooming can also create a special bond between you and your furry companion. Trimming the strong and fast-growing nails as necessary, either with a nail clipper or grinder is important to prevent them from becoming too long and risking issues such as overgrowth, splitting or cracking. Additionally, it's recommended to periodically check the ears for any wax or debris buildup to prevent potential infections. Lastly, brush your pet's teeth as needed to maintain their oral hygiene.

Exercise

	Working Kelpies possess a remarkable level of energy necessitating substantial physical activity. Suitable exercise options comprise of engaging in supervised backyard playtime, preferably within a fenced area or embarking on multiple daily walks. Additionally, indoor activities such as delightful rounds of hide-and-seek, chasing a ball rolled along the floor or acquiring new tricks can effectively serve as exercise alternatives. Engaging in certain outdoor pursuits like hiking and retrieving balls or flying discs can provide an excellent means of expending their boundless energy. Engaging in training sessions centered around dog sports, such as agility, obedience and rally, also present exciting possibilities.

Training

	From the age of 16 weeks, it is advisable to provide training for dogs or enroll them in reputable training classes to instill basic commands. Seeking guidance from a trusted livestock working dog handler/trainer, veterinarian or dog behaviorist during the initial stages of any behavioral issues is crucial. Training sessions, which should be determined based on the animal's responses and well-being, should be kept short and conducted regularly, without exerting excessive strain on the animal.

Nutrition

	For optimal nutrition, the Working Kelpie should be fed a high-quality dog food, either commercially manufactured or prepared at home under the supervision and approval of your veterinarian. It is important to ensure that the chosen diet is suitable for the dog's specific life stage (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to weight gain, so it is essential to monitor their calorie intake and weight. While treats can be beneficial for training purposes, overindulgence can lead to obesity. Familiarize yourself with which human foods are safe for dogs and those that should be avoided. If you have any concerns regarding your dog's weight or diet, consult your vet for guidance. Additionally, it is imperative to provide clean and fresh water at all times to keep your dog appropriately hydrated.

Historiography

The Working Kelpie, an Australian sheep dog renowned for its ability to muster and drive without much guidance is characterized by its medium size and various coat colors. Interestingly, the foundation of the Australian Working Kelpie sheepdog breed can be traced back to land and property owners from esteemed and well-known families, rather than shepherds as one might expect. Notable individuals include George Robertson and his cousin John G. Robertson, who migrated from Scotland to Victoria, as well as the 5 Rutherford brothers who immigrated to Australia in the mid-1800s from a prominent sheep farming family in Sutherlandshire, NSW. Additionally, Gilbert S. Elliot and William Allan, both hailing from well-connected English and Scottish families, played a role in the breed's origins.

The Kelpie breed's beginnings were a stroke of serendipity, as it started with a pair of black and tan Collies named Brutus and Jennie brought to Australia from Jedburgh, Scotland by Arthur Robinson for his brother-in-law, Gilbert Elliot. Following Gilbert Elliot's passing, William Allan took ownership of Brutus and brought him to Queensland. During the journey, one of the litters born on the way, Caesar became the property of Mr. John Rich of Narriah station, which adjoined Yalgogrin. It was at Yalgogrin that Jack Gleeson, who managed the property at the time, bred his dog named Kelpie with Caesar resulting in a litter that included Kings Kelpie. Due to the relatively short timeframe between the arrival of Brutus and Jennie, Gilbert Elliot's demise and William Allan's relocation to Queensland, the bloodlines of these imported Collies were limited. Currently, the available records only indicate that Caesar was mated with Gleeson's Kelpie producing Kings Kelpie. Other notable dogs from this lineage include Nero, owned by James Cunningham of Kildary station, Swan ll, Wylie ll, Laddie and a few unnamed dogs bred and owned by R M Macpherson.

During the 1800s, these early ancestors of the Working Kelpie were showcased at different sheepdog trials and competitions, where they not only emerged victorious but also captured the hearts and admiration of spectators. As a result of their impressive agility and efficiency, Kelpies have been exported worldwide and are predominantly utilized for mustering livestock, particularly sheep, cattle and goats. These dogs were introduced to North America around the turn of the century, playing a significant role in expediting livestock handling practices.