Australian Kelpie
The Australian Kelpie is a medium-sized herding breed developed in Australia to manage vast flocks of sheep across challenging outback terrain.
Descended from working collies imported from Scotland and England, and possibly crossed with native Dingoes, this intelligent and tireless worker has become celebrated for its exceptional stamina and independent working ability.
14-20kg
Weight
Medium
Size
12-15yrs
Lifespan
About the Australian Kelpie
Standing 39–51 centimetres tall and weighing 14–20 kilograms, the Kelpie is a lean, athletic dog with a short, dense coat available in various colours including black, red, chocolate, and fawn, often with tan markings. Its almond-shaped eyes convey an intense, watchful expression that reflects its constantly active mind. In temperament, the Australian Kelpie is exceptionally alert, intelligent, and energetic, with an irresistible enthusiasm for work and play. Deeply loyal to their families, Kelpies form strong bonds with their owners and are highly trainable and eager to please. However, their extraordinary energy levels demand consistent outlets and substantial daily exercise combined with mental stimulation. Without sufficient activity, they can become restless or destructive. A Kelpie thrives most when given a genuine job to do alongside an active, experienced owner. In the right environment, this devoted companion is truly rewarding and endlessly engaging.
Australian Kelpie at a Glance
- Group
- Pastoral
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 14–20 kg
- Height
- 39–51 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Short
- Typical price
- £400–£700
Australian Kelpie Temperament
The Australian Kelpie is an exceptionally alert, intelligent and energetic breed with an irresistible enthusiasm for work and play. Originally bred to muster and manage livestock, it excels in obedience, agility and tracking, and has even been used as a guide dog. Kelpies are deeply loyal to their families and form strong bonds with their owners. They are eager to please and highly trainable, though their energy levels demand consistent outlets. Without sufficient exercise and mental stimulation, they can become restless or destructive. A Kelpie in the right environment is an endlessly rewarding and devoted companion.
Dog Food for Australian Kelpie
Top-rated foods for Medium breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Recommended Food for Australian Kelpie
Australian Kelpie Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Australian Kelpie weighing around 17 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£3.45 - £3.68
Per month
£104 - £110
Per year
£1261 - £1344
Australian Kelpie Characteristics
The Australian Kelpie is built for activity and needs owners who can keep up and is eager to please and takes to training naturally. They are brilliant with children, but cope with some alone time if properly settled. The coat requires moderate upkeep and produces a reasonable amount of loose hair. They are a highly intelligent breed that needs mental stimulation as well as physical exercise.
Australian Kelpie Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptionally loyal and trustworthy with an even, steady temperament
- Kind and patient around children
- Highly intelligent and genuinely eager to please
- Low-maintenance grooming and naturally clean habits
Cons
- Not the best choice for first-time owners given their exercise and training requirements
- Needs high levels of daily exercise and mental stimulation
- Can become destructive if bored or left on their own for too long
- Moderate shedding that picks up during spring and autumn
