Australian Kelpie

Overview of Australian Kelpies

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Australian Kelpie are known to piling on the pounds, so/however a diet that consists of biologically appropriate protein and healthy fats, ground bone and vegetables packed with the required vitamins and minerals is essential for optimum health and performance.

The Australian Kelpie is likely to require much less maintenance than a very similar dog, which include the Border Collie or Collie since they don’t shed nearly as much and don’t need as much grooming.

Australian Kelpies need an outlet to use their mental and physical energy or they will create an outlet for themselves, which may include chewing, digging, or other destructive behavior.

Australian Kelpie temperament, personality, training, behavior, pros and cons, advice, and information, by Michele Welton, Dog Trainer, Behavioral Consultant, Author of 15 Dog Books

Australian Kelpies, or Kelpies as they’re affectionately referred to, were bred in Australia to work as a shepherd to handle a large number of sheep in New South Wales and Victoria.

Australian Kelpies have compact, muscular frames—slightly longer than tall—covered in coarse, weatherproof coats that come in black, black & tan, chocolate, blue and fawn.

Australian Kelpie needs a job to keep his clever mind occupied and has a shortish double coat that comes in black, red, blue, fawn and tan, red and tan.

Australian Kelpie Owners share that loyalty is an essential part of the breed, and you’ll never be alone when you own one of these wonderful pups.

Australian Kelpie’s can control themselves but its herding instincts can work against him in a way, making him wary of anything unusual.

Breed

Early socialization and training for the Australian Kelpie is an absolute necessity, and not something you should attempt to do on your own, unless you have had experience training and socializing very active, energetic and stubborn working breeds.

Coat

Overall, Australian Kelpies have an alert and durable look.Their long, narrow heads have rounded skulls, pointy ears and brown, almond-shaped eyes.They have strong necks, deep chests and tails that curl up a bit at the end.

Energy

Make sure you are ready to handle the Australian Kelpie’s needs before you adopt, and you’ll have an amazing friend for life.The Australian Kelpie is always ready to work.Their grooming needs are fairly minimal, their health is generally good, and they are very loyal and loving companions for the right owners.Their high energy and exercise requirements mean that they aren’t the best suited breed for apartment life, and they can act out when left alone for long periods of time, though they may adapt well if they have a diligent owner who is present and gives plenty of walks and at least a good run each day.These dogs were made to withstand the heat and rugged conditions of Australia and work tirelessly all day to round up livestock, and they are still used for that purpose today.These qualities do, however, make them natural watchdogs.They are independent thinkers, which makes them well suited for herding without human supervision, but it can also mean trouble if they aren’t challenged to do a specific task.Training should begin early in life, especially socialization training, as Australian Kelpies can be highly territorial, and they may also nip while using their natural herding instincts.Without training, Australian Kelpies can be rambunctious and difficult to handle, but with proper guidance, all of their problematic tendencies can be honed into enormously useful and impressive skills, and their intelligence makes that training quite easy.

Genetic Predispositions

At the end of the booklet, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Kelpie looking and feeling her best.This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Australian Kelpies.This information helps you and us together plan for your pet’s unique medical needs.You will know what to watch for, and we will all feel better knowing that we’re taking the best possible care of your pal.

Grooming

A brushing or two per week should help remove dead hair and reduce shedding.Australian Kelpie coats can be short, rough, or smooth and come in several different beautiful colors.Australian Kelpies tend to shed more heavily in the spring, so they may need extra brushing during that time.The Australian Kelpie’s grooming needs are low to moderate.They can be black, red, chocolate, black with tan markings, red with tan markings, smokey blue, or fawn.They often have double coats with the outer coat being more weather-resistant.

Health

Along with prescribed preventive care to combat general ecto- and endoparasites, the dogs are mainly checked for hereditary diseases.Nowadays in most countries it is necessary to check the hip joints and elbows to rule out abnormalities (dysplasia) and carry out an eye test.The Australian Kelpie is a healthy breed and for this to remain the case, every dog that is bred is subjected to a thorough health check.

Infections

Australian Kelpies are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper.Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, her age, and other factors.

Obesity

Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk.It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain and heart disease.Obesity can be a significant health problem in Australian Kelpies.She’ll feel better, and so will you!Though it’s tempting to give your pal food when she looks at you with those soulful eyes, you can “love her to death” with leftover people food and doggie treats.

Social

If you entertain guests frequently, it’s going to be crucial to properly socialise your Australian Kelpie.They can be standoffish dogs towards strangers in the best case scenario, and grumpy growling aggressive dogs in the worst.

Temperament

Australian Kelpies have a pretty even temperament.This breed exhibits very loyal traits and can be very devoted to the members of their family.

Training

However, all of these tendencies can be kept under control and redirected to constructive behaviors with the right training, especially if socialization training begins early in life.If you plan to adopt an Australian Kelpie into your family, make sure you are prepared to give them the training they need to provide everyone with a safe and positive living environment, including your new pup.The natural herding instincts of the Australian Kelpie can make it hard for them to live with small children or other pets, as they have a tendency to nip in order to round up whoever or whatever they feel needs to be herded.Their distrust of strangers may also make things difficult when children have young friends over.

 How Do They Behave
Around Strangers?

Australian Kelpie’s instincts make them wary of strangers which is a good attribute for any watchdog.However, if you want to keep one as a pet, they will need consistent socialization in order to judge real threats better.

Are Australian Kelpies affectionate? Good with kids?

Yes, the Kelpie gets on well with children.

Are Australian Kelpies aggressive dogs? Do they bite?

The Australian Kelpie is not aggressive but won’t hesitate to protect family members, animals, or property, often without regard for their own safety.

Are Australian Kelpies good guard dogs?

No.They are too friendly to be good guard dogs.However, they will protect their family and property when needed.

Are
they child friendly?

Yes, Australian Kelpie dogs are child-friendly because they are energetic, loyal, intelligent, eager and friendly but the natural herding instincts of the Australian kelpie can make it hard for them to live with small children as they have a tendency to nip in order to round up whatever they feel needs to be herded.All these should be controlled under supervision.

Australian Kelpie Breed History ?

Unlike the confusingly named Australian Shepherd, we’re happy to say that the Australian Kelpie really is as Australian as you can get.

Australian Kelpie Grooming ?

Kelpies come in a variety of coat types – short, rough, or smooth – but, luckily, they’re all pretty easy to groom.These dogs do shed quite a bit, so make sure to have a brush handy for some weekly or more frequent brushing sessions.

Australian Kelpie Personality Traits ?

Australian Kelpies are engaged and intelligent dogs.Much like other herding dogs, they’ll always have their eyes on their beloved Owners, ready to help out if required.In fact, this dog is happiest when they’re at their Owner’s side, preferably with an important task to complete.Australian Kelpie Owners share that loyalty is a huge part of the breed, and you’ll never be alone when you own one of these wonderful pups.

Australian kelpies are not related to dingoes, but why owners wanted them to be?

Kelpies are an iconic sheep herding dog breed.They were brought to Australia in the late 1800s from Scotland.However, two different variations of kelpie dog were developed in Australia – a working dog, which can endure the challenging climate of the continent and a calmer dog, which typically lives in the city.

Can Australian Kelpies swim? Do they like it?

Kelpies are not swimming dogs by origin, but if you accustom the dog with water from a young age, it might start enjoying it.

Do Australian Kelpie dogs bark a lot?

Yes.Australian Kelpies have a high tendency to bark, which makes them ideal watchdogs.

Fun Fact  ?

Before 2011, much of the world didn’t know about this special dog breed.But, with the release of the movie, Red Dog, dog lovers beyond the shepherding community learned about this wonderful doggo.

How active are they?

Kelpies are most definitely not apartment dwellers.They have far too much energy, and need plenty of space to run around in.They are somewhat manic in temperament, and need frequent periods of intense exercise and activity.Because they are not always great with strangers, apartment living, surrounded by other people and animals, could be problematic.

How it feels to live with Australian Kelpie dogs?

Australian Kelpie dogs are easy to be with because the Australian Kelpie’s health is good.The breeds may be exposed to certain health issues that should be noticed by the owners and immediate treatment should be done if not early prevention is better than cure.

How long do Australian Kelpies live?

Kelpies usually live 12 to 14 years.Some live longer than 14 years.

How much do Australian Kelpies cost? How much is an Australian Kelpie puppy?

The cost to adopt an Australian Kelpie is around $300.Australian Kelpie with top breed lines and a superior pedigree costs $1500 to $2000.

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Is Australian Kelpie a good family dog?

An Australian Kelpie makes a good family dog.Almost all working Kelpies live peacefully with other family pets.All dogs need training, and intelligent dogs such as the Kelpie love to learn and take great pleasure in working for their owner’s approval.

Is the Australian Kelpie a hypoallergenic (non-shedding) breed?

The Australian Kelpie is not a hypoallergenic dog.For such a shorthaired dog, Australian Kelpies shed much more than you might expect.This breed does not generally have a strong doggy smell and requires less bathing unless working livestock.His coat should be brushed at least once a week to remove dirt and loose hair.

Is Working Dog Part Dingo?

The Australian kelpie is a dedicated working dog, herding sheep, cattle, goats, poultry and reindeer with the ease of star athlete.While many families have welcomed the breed into their homes as companions, more than 100,000 Australian kelpies are currently working dogs on ranches in Australia.

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So why use supplements?

Dietary supplementation will take your dog’s nutrition to the next level.By making certain additions for specific Australian Kelpie related conditions, or for your dog’s individual needs, supplements will act as a complement to food.Added support which will bolster, fuel and nourish your faithful friend and fine-tune their nutritional intake.

Spayed or Neutered?

Everyone assumes you’ll know which is which but, to be honest, we still get confused which is which, so don’t panic.

What Can Make Your Dog Aggressive?

The Australian Kelpies are not aggressive, but they won’t hesitate to protect family members, animals or property, often without regard for their own safety.The high energy, stamina and strong desire to work add up to a dog who requires an active and involved family to whom they are very loyal.

What kind of dogs are part of your family?

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What
kind of temperament do Australian Kelpie dogs have?

The Australian kelpies are extremely alert and eager with a mild, tractable disposition and almost inexhaustible energy.This is a highly intelligent and capable dog.He likes to work and whatever it is, he will do it well.

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When Should I Have My Australian Kelpie Spayed or Neutered?

Whilst recommendations vary, vets typically suggest that you should have your Australian Kelpie spayed or neutered between the ages of four and nine months.There are various reasons for such a broad timeframe, although some vets suggest that timing can have positive effects on your Australian Kelpie’s behaviour, dependent on their sex.

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Australian Kelpie?

So, you’ve just arrived home with your adorable new Australian Kelpie and you’re totally enamoured.

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Why Should I Have My Australian Kelpie Spayed or Neutered?

There are many reasons why you should have your Australian Kelpie spayed or neutered, not least of all because it will likely improve their quality of life (and stop you from worrying about a litter of puppies).

History of Australian Kelpies

In 1840, cattle farmer Thomas Hall decided to crossbreed blue merle dogs, probably of the Collie or Old English Sheepdog type, with tamed dingoes.

In 1840, Hall decided to try to improve his new cattle dog.

In 1845, the Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog was recognized by the Royal Agricultural Society Kennel Council (RASKC).

In 1870, the Rutherfords, a Scottish immigrant family, brought six black-tan coloured Collies from the British Isles to Australia.

In 1873, Kelpie won a herding dog competition, therefore demand for the breed increased enormously.

In 2003, after learning there was nobody doing boxer rescue work in Georgia, Gold founded Boxertown, an organization which helped find homes for over 500 boxers during its first two years.

In the 1800s, the occasional naturally bob-tailed dog would occur.