The Kelpie came into being last century because Australian sheepmen needed a special type of dog that could work sheep on the vast outback properties, under variable and harsh conditions. The various breeds of sheepdogs from Europe and the UK were too heavy coated to cope with the severe Australian climate and geography.This wonderful breed came from two black and tan short coated prick eared Collies imported by a Mr. Elliott and a Mr. Allen in the 1860s.
From a litter born shortly after their arrival came several black and tans and one red pup. The red pup, in some ways, resembled the fox, which was believed to be in the background of the breeding.
From Victoria came a bitch, also from a Collie, called Kelpie (Gaelic word meaning water sprite). The Kelpie was mated to a dog from Elliott and Allen's pups and one pup from this litter resembled her mother so much she was also named Kelpie.
At 12 months of age, Kelpie was entered in the first sheep dog trial in 1872 which was held at Forbes, NSW. She won this trial with ease. After her trial win her pups were in great demand and were at the time called Kelpie's pups, and so the name Kelpie was evolved. It has since gained the status of Australian Kelpie.
Among the descendants of these early dogs was the jet black dog who was named The Barb. Many black Kelpies were referred to as 'Barbs" and the term still persists today.
There are various recorded and unrecorded infusions of other breeds with some experts believing there have been crosses to the Dingo. However, this issue is fiercely debated by many breeders and historians.
From these humble beginnings, the Australian Kelpie has been exported to Russia, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, UK, USA, South America, South Africa, New Zealand, Germany and the Netherlands. These dogs are being used to manage a variety of stock including reindeer, goats, cattle and, of course, sheep. Kelpies in Sweden have gained police dog titles and pulled sleds.
The Kelpie has excelled in the areas of Obedience, Agility and Tracking. They have participated in Pets As Therapy and in the past, have been fully trained Guide Dogs. In 1995, a black Kelpie has become part of the Guide Dogs Association's Puppy Walking Scheme.
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The general appearance of the Kelpie shall be that of a lithe, active dog of great quality, showing hard muscular condition combined with great suppleness of limb and conveying the capability of untiring work.
The Kelpie is of medium size, with dogs being 46 - 51 cm (18-20 inches) and bitches being 43-48 cm (17 19 inches). Weight can vary considerably; with a fine boned bitch as little as 15 kg. to a large heavy dog weighing almost 25 kg.
The Kelpie has a moderately short coat - shorter than a German Shepherd but longer than a Doberman. He comes in seven colours; red, chocolate, black, red and tan, black and tan. smoke blue and fawn.
TEMPERAMENT
The finest characteristic of the Kelpie is his irresistible Kelpie personality. The Kelpie is extremely alert, eager and highly intelligent with a mild, tractable disposition, a marked loyalty and devotion to duty.
Although bred primarily for working sheep, the Pure Bred Australian Kelpie has proved himself to be very adaptable and versatile dog. Contrary to some uninformed opinion he does adapt to being a family pet, jogging companion, children's mate and guardian. He is one of the most social breeds of the canine species, and needs companionship (almost) more than food. As a companion animal, the Kelpie has no equal. They are loving, gentle and kind. Easily house trained, they would rather die than make a mistake in the house. His greatest joy is tender loving care; his greatest disappointment is inactivity and lack of attention.
A true Aussie, he has spirit and courage to spare. Although not being an aggressive dog, he can be protective when needed, and will guard his family and their belongings when necessary, regardless of risk to himself.
However, he is not indomitable - his spirit can be conquered if he is bullied. Destroy his spirit and you destroy the Kelpie in him. The Kelpie resents harsh treatment and is unable to concentrate properly if upset. If you mistreat him, he loses respect for you and will no longer wish to please you. This willingness and eagerness to please is a characteristic of the breed and, with his high IQ, he is exceptionally easy to train for obedience, tracking, agility, show or as a pet. They learn quickly and love to work, but must be taught by persuasion and gentleness. Forcing a Kelpie will result in passive resistance which is a total disaster.
Obedience provides a great way of getting to know and share the needs of this highly intelligent breed of dog. After all, he was developed for some form of work, so if you haven't the facilities for him to work livestock, then his energies could be channeled into this very rewarding field of obedience.
The Kelpie is free from most inherent diseases that plague many other breeds of dogs. This makes him a relatively low maintenance dog to care for.
The Kelpie needs about the same exercise as any other healthy young dog, This can be the freedom in a very big yard or regular long walks. A smaller yard would mean more frequent walks.
The Kelpie is an easy dog to feed. He'll eat almost anything he's given and usually 3 - 4 cups of good dry dog food per day or a combination of fresh meat/canned food and dry, is quite adequate. Please see your breeder for a more detailed diet chart.
His coat is relatively short and requires little maintenance. It is a double coat with a short dense undercoat, which will require additional combing when it is dropping. An occasional bath always helps with social acceptance.
Ensure that they are wormed regularly, (including Heartworm), and they receive their annual vaccinations.
SO YOU WANT A KELPIE?
If you are thinking of buying a Kelpie pup, make sure of the following points. First, ask yourself; do you want a constant companion or an ornament for your backyard? If the latter, don't buy a Kelpie. Is your yard fully fenced? If not, don't buy a dog until it is.
If you want a wonderful companion go shopping for your Kelpie. Deal only with responsible registered ANKC breeders. It is up to them to see that new Kelpie owners understand the individual characteristics of their new chosen pup. Contact the breed club and get a list of breeders with puppies for sale. Ask the breeder for diet and rearing advice, make sure you follow it.
Ensure the pup you buy is vaccinated and that he looks bright eyed with a healthy soft coat. Do not buy a pup under the age of 8 weeks.
Again, before you buy a Kelpie, please make sure you are prepared to give your dog the time and attention it deserves. Remember, that the cheapest purchase often ends up by being the most expensive in the long run; so be prepared to pay a fair price for your pup.
Learn about your dog's breed, care and training as the key to success is to know, love and train your dog - be responsible.
