Working Kelpie
Quick Summary
Highly intelligent and energetic working breed, ideal for experienced owners with active lifestyles. Excels in herding and dog sports, requiring substantial exercise and mental stimulation.
Contents
Weight Range
28-60 lbs
♂ Male: 28-60 lbs
♀ Female: 28-60 lbs
Height Range
48-64 inches
♂ Male: 19-25"
♀ Female: 19-25"
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #85
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Foundation Stock Service
Originally bred for Developed in Australia during the 1870s for sheep herding in harsh outback conditions
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 19"-25" |
| Female Height | 19"-25" |
| Male Weight | 28-60 lbs |
| Female Weight | 28-60 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 2/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include puppy price ($500-$1500), basic supplies, and vaccinations. Monthly expenses cover quality food, preventative care, and potential training classes. Healthcare costs may increase with age.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Working Kelpies display intense focus and high energy levels, coupled with remarkable intelligence and strong herding instincts. Their alert and responsive nature makes them excellent working partners, though their drive requires appropriate outlets.
Social Needs
Requires significant human interaction and purposeful work. Generally good with other dogs when properly socialized. Can tolerate being alone if sufficiently exercised, but prefers constant companionship and activity.
Breed Overview
Working Kelpies are agile, medium-sized herding dogs with a distinctive athletic build and alert expression. Their muscular frame supports tireless work ethic, while their weather-resistant double coat comes in various colors. Sharp intelligence and intense focus characterize their demeanor, complemented by pricked ears and keen eyes that showcase their constant readiness for action.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Exceptional working ability
- ✓ High intelligence
- ✓ Strong endurance
- ✓ Loyal companion
- ✓ Low grooming needs
Cons
- ✗ Extremely high exercise needs
- ✗ Can be too intense for casual owners
- ✗ Strong herding instincts
- ✗ May be too energetic for small spaces
- ✗ Requires constant mental stimulation
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Alert, Eager, Intelligent |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Independent |
| Grooming Needs | Occasional Bath/Brush |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 2-3 hours of intense daily exercise including herding activities, agility training, and long runs. High-intensity workouts are essential, with mental stimulation through complex tasks. Best suited for very active owners who can provide constant engagement.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 2-3 cups of high-quality working dog food daily, split into two meals. Active working dogs need increased caloric intake. Special attention to joint-supporting nutrients recommended for this high-energy breed.
Feed 2-3 cups of high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals. Working dogs may need additional calories based on activity level. Include protein-rich foods and joint-supporting supplements for optimal health.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Needs substantial outdoor space with secure fencing. Thrives in rural or suburban settings with room to run. Adaptable to various climates but requires shelter from extreme weather.
Requires large, securely fenced outdoor space for exercise and activity. Best suited to rural or large suburban properties. Can adapt to various settings if exercise needs are met, but not ideal for apartment living.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Australian settlers developed the Working Kelpie from imported Scottish Collie breeds in the 1870s. These dogs were bred specifically for handling sheep in the vast, harsh Australian outback, where their endurance and working ability proved invaluable.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Australia during the 1870s for sheep herding in harsh outback conditions. These dogs revolutionized livestock management through their exceptional working abilities and stamina.
Fun Fact
Working Kelpies can cover up to 50 kilometers in a day while working, showcasing their legendary endurance.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular grooming is minimal but necessary. Health monitoring should focus on eyes and joints due to working strain.