Australian Kelpies

*The photos posted on this page are courtesy of Carolina Kelpie Cow Dogs 

     I have written this as a general overview of my impressions of the breed.  I have provided links for those interested to find out more from an expert (which I am not) on Australian Kelpies. 

     This is a muscular, compact breed, usually around 30-50lbs. Any color will do, as Kelpie breeders are more concerned with working ability and general health than anything else. They have medium, weather proof hair that is fairly low maintenance.

     The breed developed out of necessity down under as a hardier alternative to Border Collies, Aussies and other herding breeds. They are always slightly longer than they are tall, but I have personally seen pure bred Kelpies with a wide variety of features- ears standing, and floppy eared, solid colors, color flecking, and one that looking strikingly like a yellow lab. What sets them apart is their pure working drive. A breeder and trainer I met with, Jason Harkey described them in detail. A strong "Bite"(and they mean that literally) is a must for a Kelpie to work herding large animals, and many are too rough and tough for meeker, smaller animals like ducks and sheep.

     Pure bred Kelpies are not a good fit for the average household, and Jason is very selective about who he will sell to. Kelpies need an abundance of hard work. They mostly attach to one person only and will work tirelessly to herd even the most stubborn cattle. I have seen these dogs fearlessly rush forward to head off cows who will charge at or kick them. Australian Kelpies have infinite courage, energy, and intelligence and are too bold for many handlers.