Dogs
Australian Kelpie
Other names: Kelpie, Bard, Australian Kelpie
- Origin
- Australia
- Size
- Medium
- Height · Male
- 46–51 cm
- Height · Female
- 43–48 cm
- Weight · Male
- 15–20 kg
- Weight · Female
- 15–20 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–14 years
- Litter
- 4–7 puppies
- FCI
- FCI group 1 · 1 · n.º 293
Traits
Activity
Social
At home
Training
Guarding
Temperament
The Kelpie is extremely alert, eager and highly intelligent, with a mild, tractable disposition and an almost inexhaustible energy, with marked loyalty and devotion to duty. It has a natural instinct and aptitude in working of sheep, both in open country and in the yard. Any defect of structure or temperament foreign to a working dog must be regarded as uncharacteristic.
Care
Australian Kelpie's are not suited to apartment or city dwelling. They require a rural setting in an active environment. The Australian Kelpie thrives on an inordinate amount of exercise and a job to do. If they become bored they become destructive.
Exercise, a job or activity to do, and positive training.
Health
The Australian Kelpie breed requires occasional brushing. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary to prevent damage to the coat and skin. Dental hygiene is essential. This breed is prone to Progressive Retinal Atrophy.