History of the Australian Kelpie

Though the name suggests the Australian kelpie was developed in Australia, its ancestors are in fact Scottish. Medium-sized working collies of various types—some longhaired and some smooth, some black and tan, and some red—were imported into Australia in the late 1800s to help Australian farmers manage their enormous flocks of thousands of sheep in difficult weather and terrain.. 

Although the breed is a well-known working dog in Australia, the Australian kelpie is not as recognized in the United States since they are rarely kept as pets. However, a few thousand kelpies can be found working on ranches and farms in North America.

Characteristics of the Australian Kelpie

Australian kelpies are affectionate with children and typically get along well with other pets, though they might need to be discouraged from excessive herding of other members of their pack. The Kelpie makes a fine family pet. 

They are highly trainable, eager to please, and loyal. When paired with an owner who understands the breed’s special needs, the Australian kelpie can be the ultimate companion.

Training

Like most herding breeds, Australian kelpies are extremely smart and compliant. In fact, the breed’s intelligence rivals that of the famed border collie. Kelpies can be trained to do just about anything, and they are eager to learn new skills.

Training is an excellent way to put a kelpie’s powerful brain to work and can go a long way toward fending off boredom, particularly if kept as a family pet! Positive reinforcement methods like clicker training give great results with a kelpie. 

Diet and Nutrition

Australian Kelpies, especially working Australian Kelpies, need to eat energy-dense, high-quality food to fuel their active bodies. If you’re not sure what to feed your Kelpie, or how much to feed, ask your veterinarian or breeder to advise you. 

Kelpies that get enough exercise are unlikely to become overweight, but older kelpies or those recovering from an injury might need a lower-calorie diet to avoid weight gain

Where to Buy an Australian Kelpie.

The Australian Kelpie is not a good choice for the average pet owner, but if you’re looking for a performance dog or working dog, the breed may be a great fit. Though Australian Kelpies are mostly similar, different breeders specialize in different types of working ability. 

For instance, you might want a dog with different qualities depending on if you want an Australian Kelpie to work on a large sheep ranch, herd cattle, or one that is well-suited to help out on a small hobby farm.

Expect to pay a breeder $500 to $1,500 for a Kelpie puppy. It may be difficult to find a rescue, but you can always inquire. 

This is only a brief intoduction to the Australian Kelpie. They are an amazing inteligent working dog and can be a faithful family pet and companion!