Meet the Highly Energetic Australian Kelpies Why the These Dogs Are Well Suited for the Ranch

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Australian Kelpies photo
Large Breed Hip Dysplasia Cerebellar abiotrophy Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) Australian Kelpie

Is the Australian Kelpie good for you?

  • 1 The Australian Kelpie is a highly active breed and not suitable for apartment living.
  • 2 This loyal breed prefers to be your only pet and will remain protective of your family at all costs.
  • 3 Known for herding livestock, they are easy to train and great with children.

HISTORY

Developed from English North Country Collies of the Rutherford strain, the Australian Kelpie was imported to Australia in the 19th century to herd livestock. This breed of dog was officially recognized in 1870.

Quick Facts

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    Size

    Large

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    Lifespan

    10 - 14 years

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    Hair Length

    Short

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    Male Height

    17-20 inches (43-51 cm.)

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    Male Weight

    25-45 pounds (11-20 kg.)

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    Female Height

    17-20 inches (43-51 cm.)

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    Female Weight

    25-45 pounds (11-20 kg.)

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    Litter Size

    4 - 7 puppies

Personality

The Australian Kelpie is truly wonderful at herding livestock. They are a highly active dog breed, and hence are not at all suitable for apartment or house life. The Australian Kelpie is a single person dog, and prefers a one-to-one relationship. The Australian Kelpies are not an aggressive dog breed, but they have a protective nature and will guard family and belongings at any cost. An easily trainable dog breed, they are good with children, provided they are raised with them right from a young age..

Color

Color possibilities include black, and red, each with or without out tan; and fawn, chocolate and blue (gray) from dark to light. Minimal white markings like a spot, stripe, or a blaze are sometimes present as are white stockings.

Health Concerns

Australian Kelpies are prone to health problems like:

  • cerebellar abiotrophy
  • progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
  • hip dysplasia
  • cryptorchidism
Appearance

The Australian Kelpie has a long and narrow head, a muscular body with strong limbs, a broad chest, and a low set tail of medium length. This breed of dog has a rough weather resistant outer coat and a thick undercoat. The coat comes in fawn, chocolate, blue, and black and red (both color in combinations with tan or single).

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