Kelpie
- Hard Working
- Active
- Friendly
- Intelligent
- Eager to please
Kelpie History
The modern day Kelpie, dates back to the late 19th century and was developed from crossbreeding three imported Collies.
They were originally used to herd Merino sheep on large sheep stations in the harsh Australian outback. Today they are still used as working dogs but are commonly kept as pets also.
Kelpie Characteristics
This medium sized dog sports a short double coat that can be seen in a variety of colours including black, red, fawn, chocolate, smoke blue, black and tan and red and fawn.
Kelpies have boundless energy and are one of the most trainable and hard-working of all breeds. As a result they excel in agility, obedience and sheepdog trials. They are also extremely friendly, loyal and loving and as a result make a great family pet.
Due to their high energy level and impressive intellect, both physical and mental stimulation is imperative to avoid behavioural problems.
Failure to challenge and exercise these dogs regularly results in distressed and occasionally destructive dogs.
Kelpie Health Issues
Their average lifespan is 10 - 15 years.
Common Illnesses include;
- Hip & Elbow Dysplasia - Genetic conditions that cause abnormal development of the elbow and hip joints in young dogs. This can lead to early onset degenerative joint disease.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – Progressive degeneration of the retina eventually causing blindness.
- Cataracts – Abnormal opacity in the lens resulting in blurred or complete loss of vision.
- Prone to athletic injuries; cruciate ligament ruptures, pulled muscles, lacerated or ripped toenails and footpads.
- Cerebellar Abiotrophy – Genetic disorder that causes affected dogs to develop neurological signs that progress to complete immobilization.