Australian Kelpie
Overview
Over the years, dogs have been selectively bred with some people preferring inbreeding dogs from similar ancestral lines while others going for the mixed. However, this process continues to date and has resulted in a widened dog appearances without speciation. Usually, breeds are categorized according to the type of functions the original breed developed, It may be hunting, guarding, herding or even companion dogs. Let's have a look at the Australian Kelpie.
The ancestors of the Australian Kelpie were black dogs called collies/Colley and were direct descendants of a breed known as Dingoes. About 4% of their genes are from native Australian dog and when Kelpie was originated it was a time when people who owned Dingo registered them as Kelpie. The breed has been exported all over the globe to countries such as Canada, Sweden, and New Zealand.
Appearance
Australian Kelpie is a soft-coated dog and medium-sized. You can find them in colors such as black, white and gold, black and tan, red and tan, as well as in blue. They have prick ears and athletic appearance. Most of them weigh 20kg and measures around 51cm.
Temperament and personality
It's a herding dog which is loyal and devoted to its duties. This is an energetic dog that's very eager, active, intelligent and alert. These dogs strongly bond with one person and relate well with kids when they are brought up together from the time they are puppies. Since they are hardy dogs, they don't do well when kept indoors.
Nutrition and weight
They should eat high-quality food but you should be cautious because as they grow old they become prone to getting overweight when served with too many calories. They can also feed on some types of human food but with veterinary consultation. Their average weight is between 31-44 pounds.
Grooming and shedding
This is a double-coated breed with the outer coat being close, with hairs that are straight, hard and lies flat. They shed regularly and therefore they need to be brushed and combed frequently so as to remove the dead hairs and give a bath to keep them clean.
Lifespan and exercises
The dog requires a lot of exercises and should be taken for a walk on a daily basis if possible to ensure that they stay active and happy. You should engage them in jogging and other mental exercises as you train them to be obedience. This breed has a life expectancy of about 10-14 years and responds very well to training and learns quickly.
Breed Information
| Popularity: | # |
| Origin: | Australia |
| Breed Group: | Working Herding (UKC) |
| Size: | Medium |
| Type: | Purebred |
| Life span: | 10-14 years |
| Temperament: | Alert Eager Energetic Friendly Intelligent Loyal Robust |
| Height: | 17-20 inches (43-51 cm) |
| Weight: | 25-45 pounds (11-20 kg) |
| Colors: | Black Black & Tan Blue Brown Chocolate Fawn Red |
| Litter Size: | 4-7 puppies |
| Puppy Price: | Average $500 - $700 USD |
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Dog names
| Rank | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cooper | Molly |
| 2 | Bear | Chloe |
| 3 | Winston | Ginger |
| 4 | Henry | Pepper |
| 5 | Moose | Millie |
| 6 | Otis | Marley |
| 7 | George | Sandy |
| 8 | Simba | Phoebe |
| 9 | Ziggy | Jasmine |
| 10 | Chance | Peanut |
| 11 | Rudy | Katie |
| 12 | Prince | Fiona |
| 13 | Sparky | Shadow |
| 14 | Benny | Allie |
| 15 | Mac | Ava |