Australian Kelpie
Australská kelpie
.jpg){kind=link}
Key facts
| FCI group | 1. Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs (except Swiss Cattle Dogs) |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | Australia |
| Category | Medium |
| Height at withers | 43–51 cm |
Recognition features
- Lithe, supple, muscular dog of medium frame with erect ears
- Short, hard, close-lying weather-resistant coat
- Almost inexhaustible energy and work drive
Purpose
An Australian sheepdog bred to work sheep on vast stations in heat and dust.
History
After the opening of vast areas in New South Wales and Victoria, flocks grew so large that hand herding became impractical. A dog was needed that could work in heat, dust and huge distances, and the Kelpie became Australia's principal sheepdog.
Coat
Double coat with a short dense undercoat; straight, hard, flat-lying outer coat, longer on neck and breeching; black, black and tan, red, red and tan, fawn, chocolate, smoke blue.
Similar breeds
- Australian Cattle Dog · Compare
- Border Collie · Compare
- Australian Shepherd · Compare
- Mudi · Compare
- Dutch Shepherd Dog · Compare
Learn to recognise this breed and many more
In the Dogtice quiz you practise breeds on photos and see the differences between look-alike breeds.
The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard. Report a photo or rights.