Australian Kelpie
A sheepdog that will run across the backs of a packed mob to reach the front. Bred for Australian distances, and it works in heat that stops other dogs.
Overview
The Kelpie is Australia's working sheepdog, bred to move large flocks across long distances in heat and dust with minimal direction. Working Kelpies famously run over the backs of packed sheep to get to the front of a mob, which is a real technique rather than a story.
There are effectively two populations: the working Kelpie, bred purely for ability, and the show Kelpie, bred to a standard. They differ enough that they are worth treating as separate decisions.
Temperament
Tireless, clever and driven. A Kelpie is happiest working and finds work if none is given, which usually means herding something that does not want to be herded.
They are loyal and affectionate with their families and often reserved with strangers. They are not aggressive, they are busy. Kelpies suit experienced owners with land or serious dog sport commitments, and they are a poor fit for anything else.
Care and grooming
A short weatherproof coat, a weekly brush, more during the moult. Almost no maintenance.
The working gene pool has kept them sound. Progressive retinal atrophy and cerebellar abiotrophy both occur and both have DNA tests, and hip dysplasia is worth a check. Twelve to fifteen years is normal.
Living and exercise
Two to three hours a day, and that is a floor rather than a target. Working Kelpies on a station cover forty kilometres in a day.
Mental work matters as much as physical. Herding, agility, flyball, scent work and obedience all suit them, and a Kelpie without an outlet will find one at the household's expense.
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