Height: 17-23 inches
Weight: 25-45 lbs.
Life Span: 12-14 yrs.
Breed Group: Herding Dogs
Overview
Kelpies are intense and independent. They need a strong, experienced trainer
and early socialization and obedience training. Otherwise they tend to herd
everything, including young children and other animals.
The kelpie likes hard exercise and wandering and is not very happy living
in the city or with an owner who favors an armchair over hiking.
Appearance
The Australian kelpie is a solid, medium-size dog with a foxlike head. The
weather-resistant outercoat is harsh and glossy; the undercoat is thick
and soft.
The color is usually black but can be black and tan, red, red and tan, fawn,
chocolate, or smoke blue.
Grooming & Exercise Needs
The Australian kelpie needs to be brushed and combed weekly. These dogs
need an athlete's training schedule--exercise, exercise, exercise--or they
may develop severe behavioral problems.
Origins
The Australian kelpie originated in the 1870s from the breeding of a Border
collie and a black and tan random-bred female named Kelpie.
Special Alerts
The Australian kelpie is not suitable for inexperienced dog owners and does
not adapt well to city or apartment life.
Reference: AKC - American Kennel Club |
