Origin: Australia
Origin of Name: The Australian Kelpie, or simply Kelpie, is an Australian sheep dog capable of mustering and droving with little or no guidance.
Size | Temperament | Shedding | Drooling | Monthly keeping cost | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Medium | Zero High |
Negligible Hair Everywhere |
Zero Excess |
|
After the opening of vast tracts of land in the Australian states of New South Wales and Victoria, the number of sheep increased so dramatically that some estates amounted to more than two million acres and ran over a quarter of a million sheep. In these areas widely, herring (originally carried by convicts) was impractical, wire fences were erected and sheep were left free. It was then necessary to have dogs to handle sheep in such large areas. A dog had to be developed to work under the conditions that existed in Australia. These conditions included heat, rough terrain, dust storms and vast distances. Kelippy was able to do the work of many men, who were tireless workers in the hottest and dustiest climate.
Like many breeds, the origin of kelpi is disputed. However, there is no doubt that the breed originated from dogs imported from Scotland. These dogs were black and tan, with long half-eared ears, medium-sized and Koli types. Others were smooth-haired with ears, but still of the Koli type. Litters from these dogs also produced red (liverbro) puppies.
They should perform well on high quality dog food, whether it is commercially manufactured or prepared with the supervision and approval of your vet. Any diet should be appropriate for the age of the dog (puppy, adult or senior). Some dogs are at risk of being overweight, so watch your dog's calorie consumption and weight level. Treatment training can be an important aid, but giving too much can lead to obesity. Know which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. If you have any concerns about your dog's weight or diet, check with your vet. Clean, fresh water must be available at all times.
This breed has boundless energy. They are highly intelligent and are required to do the job. Early socialization is necessary, and training at an early age is important. They are a strong powerful breed with incredible speed and need a lot of space to run. It is not a breed that thrives in a busy urban environment or suburbs unless it has a lot of activity, nor is it a breed for kenneling. He prefers to hang out, where his strong herring and safety instincts and his bond with his territory and his "people" keep him from escaping.
Most Australian kelpies are healthy dogs. Working with a responsible breeder who owns Kelpi can receive the necessary education about specific health concerns. Good breeders use genetic testing of their breeding stock to reduce the likelihood of disease in their puppies.