Australian Kelpie

The Australian Kelpie is a tireless sheepdog bred for the vast, hot ranges of Australia — a lean, agile herder famous for working huge flocks in punishing conditions.

History

It was developed in nineteenth-century Australia from British collie stock, selected purely for stamina, drive and stock sense over great distances. Some Kelpies famously work by running across the backs of packed sheep, a measure of how much energy the breed carries.

Temperament

The breed is known for being intensely energetic, intelligent and independent, devoted to its handler and happiest with a job to do. Without real work it becomes restless and inventive.

Care and training

It needs a great deal of exercise and mental engagement — herding, dog sports, anything that occupies its head — and takes readily to training. The short weatherproof double coat is easy to keep.

Health

The breed is generally hardy; noted tendencies include hip dysplasia and inherited eye and neurological conditions carried in some lines. These are patterns for the breed rather than a verdict on one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.