Notes on
the Australian Kelpie
The Australian Kelpie has a compact body and well-developed limbs.
Slightly longer than he is tall, the Kelpie has a broad chest and
firm hind quarters that contribute to his flexible, energized appearance.
The head is long and narrow. The medium length tail is low set.
The short, compact feet have well arched toes. The double coat consists
of a short and dense undercoat and a hard, straight and weather-repellent
outer coat. Color possibilities include black and red, each with
or without out tan; and fawn, chocolate and blue.
A
compact, robust, enthusiastic, and tireless working dog. Excellent
at herding, the Australian Kelpie is the most popular and successful
working dog. Kelpies are devoted one-man dogs but far too work-oriented
and energetic for a house or apartment existence. They are ready
to respond immediately to any signal given by its master, even from
a great distance. They are good with children when they are raised
with them from puppyhood. Kelpies will try to herd other dogs, pets
and animals whether they want to be herded or not. This workaholic
will work until it drops.Boredom is the breed's doom and the owner's
as well. In their native country of Australia, Kelpies work all
day even in intense heat, covering 1,000 to 4,000-plus acres. The
breed uses "eye" similar to the Border Collie's on the
tractable stock, but utilizes its nipping ability to turn more stubborn
cattle. Kelpies can muster thousands of sheep from pasture to pen
to truck. This very clever Kelpie will jump on the back of the nearest
sheep and run lightly across the flock to reach the other side.
Excellent watchdogs and can also be trained as seeing-eye dogs.
The Australian Kelpie is not an aggressive dog, but he can be protective
when needed, and will guard his family and their belongings when
necessary, regardless of the risk to himself.
