Kelpie Breed Guide
Formal breed name: Australian Kelpie
Also known as: Australian Sheepdog, Barb
Intensely focused and energetic, Australian Kelpies are working dogs who need mental stimulation and owners who understand their drive.

Quick facts about this breed
Size
Medium
Weight
11-20 kg
Lifespan
10-16 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Medium
Weight
11-20 kg
Lifespan
10-16 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Moderate
About Kelpies
The Australian Kelpie was developed in the 1870s from Scottish Collie-type dogs brought to Australia, bred specifically to work sheep in the challenging Australian climate and terrain. These dogs were refined to be independent workers capable of handling large flocks with minimal human supervision.
Kelpies are athletic, compact dogs with short double coats that come in various colours including black, red, chocolate, and blue. They're renowned for their intelligence, stamina, and unique ability to run across the backs of sheep in crowded yards.
These dogs possess extraordinary energy levels and require substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. They excel in dog sports and are happiest when given a job to do. While generally healthy, potential concerns include hip dysplasia, luxating patella, and certain eye conditions. Kelpies are not suited to sedentary lifestyles and need experienced owners who can provide adequate physical and mental challenges.
Complete Care Guide for Kelpies
Expert advice on keeping your Kelpie healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Proper nutrition forms the foundation of a healthy, active Kelpie lifestyle. These energetic working dogs require a carefully balanced diet rich in high-quality animal proteins to maintain their lean muscle mass and support their considerable energy requirements. Quality protein sources should comprise approximately 25-30% of their daily nutritional intake, with options like lean meats forming the cornerstone of their diet.
Beyond protein, Kelpies benefit significantly from a diverse range of nutrients. Including moderate amounts of vegetables and carefully selected fruits provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support cellular function and overall vitality. These wholesome additions contribute vital fiber for digestive health while offering natural sources of important micronutrients.
Maintaining proper hydration proves crucial for these active dogs. Fresh, clean water should always be readily available, as adequate hydration supports everything from temperature regulation to nutrient absorption. Portion control deserves careful attention, with serving sizes requiring adjustment based on individual factors including age, weight, and particularly activity level.
Regular feeding schedules help establish healthy eating patterns, typically involving two measured meals daily for adult Kelpies. Monitoring your dog's weight and energy levels allows for fine-tuning portions to prevent both under and overfeeding. For working Kelpies, additional caloric intake may be necessary to match their increased energy expenditure.
How healthy is your Kelpie?
A two minute quiz for your personalised results and health plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Kelpies from our community of pet parents
Kelpies are highly energetic, intelligent, and eager to please, which makes them excellent working dogs. They are known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them good companions for families. However, their high energy and intelligence mean they require plenty of mental and physical stimulation to prevent them from becoming bored and destructive.
Kelpie Blog Posts & Guides
Expert advice and tips specifically for Kelpie owners