The Australian Kelpie is generally a healthy breed. There are a few diseases that we test for, namely Collie Eye Anomoly (CEA), Intestional Lipid Malabsorbtion (ILM), Dialated Myelopothy (DM), Multidrug Resistance (MDR1) and Cerebellar Abiotrophy (CA, both early and late onset). Hips, elbows, eyes and cardiac screening are also done.
He is an active dog needing time for exercising and freedom, recall he was bred mainly for stamina, endurance and working ability in Australia’s rough terrain. He does not need to be left to roam or to his own devices, as this is where trouble comes in. A good run once or twice a day, coupled with some obedience training, will help to curb any boredom and keep your Kelpie fit.
Kelpies have an active mind, and therefore need to be kept “entertained”. This is where obedience, showing, and working fulfill this need. Their willingness to please also lends itself to each of these activities. The Kelpie is a loyal, loving animal, who loves to be “working” with you, side by side. Many a good stockman tells his kelpie secrets that he knows will stay sealed within his lips. A Kelpie looks at you with the expression of “I know what you mean”, and although he can have an air of arrogance, he all the time is listening, even though he may not agree that “that is the best way to do things.” He will often display talents of initiative, shown many times in the working field.
The Kelpie is a fantastic family dog, and will often protect the children. He is also a low maintenance dog due to his short coat, general physique and lack of heredity problems. He loves human attention, although can become a most astute guard dog if you so wish. His natural working ability enables his tendency to always watch over his “flock”, in this case, the family.
He readily adapts himself to obedience and scent work, as this stimulates him mentally as well as physically. Working with human contact, combined his willingness to please, make him an excellent choice for the obedience ring. The Australian Kelpie showcases their abilities in the agility ring due to their flexibility and eagerness in body, spirit, and mind.
Even as a dog for the purpose of companionship, the Australian Kelpie suits well. He knows when you are feeling off, and will do something even as simple as giving you a nuzzle with a cold, wet nose.He understands all your feelings, (which sometimes can be frustrating when competing in major events) and knows when just to come and lay at your feet, just to let you know that you are on his mind.
The Kelpie above all else is more of a friend than a “dog”. Mistreat him and he will lose all trust in you, but respect him, and he will be your lifelong friend.
Whether for show, obedience, work or companionship, the Australian Kelpie will slot into any, or all, categories. He is a versatile dog who lends himself to whatever you want him to do, so long as you are there. His biggest dislikes are boredom and loneliness.. Many Australian Kelpies in suburban backyards become a nuisance with such displays as barking, chasing bikes, cars, etc. and escaping from their enclosures, the reason being, he is bored and needing companionship.
He is an active dog needing time for exercising and freedom, recall he was bred mainly for stamina, endurance and working ability in Australia’s rough terrain. He does not need to be left to roam or to his own devices, as this is where trouble comes in. A good run once or twice a day, coupled with some obedience training, will help to curb any boredom and keep your Kelpie fit.
Kelpies have an active mind, and therefore need to be kept “entertained”. This is where obedience, showing, and working fulfill this need. Their willingness to please also lends itself to each of these activities. The Kelpie is a loyal, loving animal, who loves to be “working” with you, side by side. Many a good stockman tells his kelpie secrets that he knows will stay sealed within his lips. A Kelpie looks at you with the expression of “I know what you mean”, and although he can have an air of arrogance, he all the time is listening, even though he may not agree that “that is the best way to do things.” He will often display talents of initiative, shown many times in the working field.
The Kelpie is a fantastic family dog, and will often protect the children. He is also a low maintenance dog due to his short coat, general physique and lack of heredity problems. He loves human attention, although can become a most astute guard dog if you so wish. His natural working ability enables his tendency to always watch over his “flock”, in this case, the family.
He readily adapts himself to obedience and scent work, as this stimulates him mentally as well as physically. Working with human contact, combined his willingness to please, make him an excellent choice for the obedience ring. The Australian Kelpie showcases their abilities in the agility ring due to their flexibility and eagerness in body, spirit, and mind.
Even as a dog for the purpose of companionship, the Australian Kelpie suits well. He knows when you are feeling off, and will do something even as simple as giving you a nuzzle with a cold, wet nose.He understands all your feelings, (which sometimes can be frustrating when competing in major events) and knows when just to come and lay at your feet, just to let you know that you are on his mind.
The Kelpie above all else is more of a friend than a “dog”. Mistreat him and he will lose all trust in you, but respect him, and he will be your lifelong friend.
Whether for show, obedience, work or companionship, the Australian Kelpie will slot into any, or all, categories. He is a versatile dog who lends himself to whatever you want him to do, so long as you are there. His biggest dislikes are boredom and loneliness.. Many Australian Kelpies in suburban backyards become a nuisance with such displays as barking, chasing bikes, cars, etc. and escaping from their enclosures, the reason being, he is bored and needing companionship.
