Kelpies are a highly intelligent, loyal, and hard-working breed of dog. They are considered one of those breeds that fit perfectly with the harsh climate of Australia. Kelpies are fast learners due to their high intelligence and have a high exercise requirement. If you put a lot of time and energy into training and caring for your dog, you will get a life companion.
In this Kelpie owner’s guide, you will learn everything about this breed, from its history to its health to the costs.
History
The Kelpie has a very confusing history for many years. It was believed that Kelpies were produced as a result of breeding between Collies and wild dingoes. However, this belief was shattered in the early 1900s, but modern research suggests that Kelpies have between 3 and 4% “dingo DNA.”
Another reason behind the unclear history of the Kelpie origin is due to the nation’s attitude towards dingoes. In the 19th century, sheep farmers offered a bounty for each head of a dingo. Those people who were known to have Dingoes were also severely fined.
Regardless of all these things, Kelpies are selectively bred and due to their livestock herding characteristics. They are independent in nature, resistant to Australia’s harsh climate, and more tolerant of dehydration and heat. Over time, Kelpies are considered the best breed that can easily live in the Australian climate.
Many historians write that without the Kelpies, livestock could never reach these heights in Australia. Kelpie has a great contribution to make Australia one of the top wool contributors.
Personality
They are famous as workaholic breed and work with full enthusiasm. Along with these traits, Kelpies are very alert and are great watchdogs. They are highly obedient and can be easily trained. However, if you are living in suburban areas, they are not an ideal breed for you. If they are trained and socialized well, they are good with children and other animals.
The Australian Kelpie is a very energetic and agile breed of dog. They always need a job to do this because their energy level is so high that they cannot sit idle for long. If you are a person who loves to take long walks, Kelpie is an ideal companion for you.
Australian Kelpie Temperament
Australian Kelpies make excellent herding dogs, but they are popular as one-man dogs due to their independent nature. They are very energetic and work-oriented. Kelpies are very loyal to their owners; they will respond to their owner’s orders even from a great distance.
Due to their independent nature, they may show some socialization problems, but with proper training and early age socialization, they get along well with children and other pets. Some people think of them as an aggressive breed of dog, but they are not. However, they can be protective when it comes to protecting their family.
Health and Care Tips
Like other dog breeds, kelpies can also suffer from some genetic health problems. While searching for a Kelpie, don’t consider breeders who don’t offer a health guarantee for puppies. A good breeder will always inform you about the health problems that run in the genes and will inform you about the necessary precautions that have been followed in breeding.
Basically, the Kelpie is a very healthy and energetic breed. Still, it does have some health issues that are cause for concern. They suffer from cerebellar abiotrophy, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and Collie eye abnormality.
Cerebellar abiotrophy can affect their movement because it is a neurological disease. Research has yet to find any treatment for this disease, but they are looking for a marker that can help the breeder identify the Kelpie with this problem and should not be bred.
Is an Australian Kelpie hypoallergenic?
No, Kelpies are not hypoallergenic. They have a short double coat that can protect them from the harsh weather and keep them comfortable. But they have a high tendency to shed and if you are allergic to dog fur, consider another breed.
Are Australian Kelpies good family dogs?
If your family likes a dog that loves to work, has an athlete’s physique, and if it is properly trained, it can learn everything, the Australian Kelpie is an ideal family dog. They are perfectly suitable for families who can include them in their daily lifestyle. They always want to be a part of everything, and they don’t like to be left out. Their loyalty, devotion, and ability to work long hours make them the perfect pet for families today.
How much do Australian Kelpies cost?
The cost of Australian Kelpie varies greatly, highly dependent on the source. If you buy a Kelpie from a reputable breeder, it can cost you almost 3,500 AUD. However, they are also available in a price range of 400 to 800 AUD.
Can the kelpies be left alone?
Kelpies are not one of those dogs that can be left alone for a long time because they can suffer from separation anxiety. They will also display many destructive behaviors when left alone. Kelpies are those dogs that love to walk. They run all day with you so they cannot leave alone.
Can kelpies be inside dogs?
By nature, Kelpies are herding dogs that are not often kept as pets. They are always aware of strangers, and that makes them great watchdogs. If you want to have a Kelpie as an inside pet, you must constantly socialize him so that he can easily judge the real threat.
How long does a kelpie live?
Kelpies are companions for life and can live for almost 10-14 years if you take good care of them.
Are Australian Kelpies aggressive?
People mistake Australian Kelpies for an aggressive breed of dog, but they are not. However, they will do anything to protect their families.
Is a Kelpie a Cattle Dog?
Yes, Kelpies are very similar to Australian Cattle Dogs. They have the same height, the same litter size, the same lifespan, and the same weight. The only difference between the two breeds is their maintenance. Kelpies require moderate maintenance compared to the low maintenance of Australian Cattle Dogs.
Do kelpies bark a lot?
Kelpies, when left alone for a long time or when they get bored, whether in the garden or around the house or when they are unhappy, will bark a lot. They will also bark when they meet a stranger.
How often do kelpies shed?
Kelpie is a short-haired breed and doesn’t require much maintenance, but it does shed much more than a normal dog. The spring season is its shedding season. You should brush their fur weekly to keep their loose hair under control.
Conclusion
Australian kelpies are an athletic and loyal dog breed. You can keep them as your companion at home if you socialized and trained them properly. Kelpies are high-energy dogs, so you should involve them in your activities.
