Breed Profile
As herding dogs, Australian Kelpies are happiest with an activity or job to do. They bond quickly with their owners but may treat kids and dogs like sheep that need to be corralled. With training and socialization, the Kelpie can grow to be a great watchdog and faithful companion.
Behavior
The Australian Kelpie is a working dog that’s full of energy and eager for a job to do. They are loyal and devoted to their families but may have a tendency to herd other dogs, pets, and animals in the house. The Australian Kelpie has an independent streak too. This is not a dog you want to keep cooped up in the house all day, or they'll become bored and destructive. Australian Kelpies make wonderful watchdogs and can even be trained as seeing-eye dogs too.
Coat
The Australian Kelpie has a double coat with a short, dense undercoat and hard, straight outercoat that’s weather-repellent. Working Australian Kelpies can be any color, but show Kelpies are solid black, red, fawn, chocolate, or blue. These dogs are average shedders that don’t need much bathing, brushing, or grooming.
Lifestyle
The Australian Kelpie is good with children and other pets when they’re raised together from puppyhood. They aren't overly aggressive dogs, but they will fiercely defend their families and territory when necessary. Australian Kelpies enjoy being outdoors, but they should live indoors in a home setting.
Activity
The Australian Kelpie is a working dog that needs plenty of exercise. They loves being given a job to do and will easily become bored if they don't have enough activity or stimulation. They’re great at sports and love walking, hiking, jogging, and any exercise so long as it gets their blood pumping.
Characteristics
Space Needs
Activity Needs
Intelligence
Playfulness
Grooming Needs
Trainability
Watch Ability
Dog-friendliness
Child-friendliness
About the Australian Kelpie
Australian Kelpies were bred Down Under to herd sheep and livestock, and their high-energy nature hasn’t changed over the years. They’re very smart dogs and love having a job that keeps their mind and body busy. The Kelpie’s herding nature can make them aggressive or nippy toward children and other animals at first, but with socialization and training, they can grow to be fast friends. This breed has relatively light grooming needs but is higher maintenance in the activity department. They get bored easily, so keep your Kelpie active and engaged to prevent unpleasant surprises. With enough exercise, love, and training, the Australian Kelpie can make a wonderful watchdog and caring companion.
Breed information reviewed by the Puppies.com editorial team. Helping families find their perfect puppy since 2003.
Australian Kelpie Quick Facts
35–50 lbs
Adult Weight
17–20"
Adult Height