• Fact 2 - Description and Definition of Australian Kelpies: This breed of dog is an Australian sheepdog with pointed ears.  Kelpies have been said to have some Dingo blood as they are similar in conformation and colouring.
  • Australian Kelpies have been exported throughout the world and are used to muster livestock including sheep, cattle, goats and poultry
  • They are considered suitable as a family pet  
• Fact 3 - Size: The weight of Australian Kelpies range from 55 - 75 pounds
• Fact 4 - Size: The height ranges from 23 - 27 inches, up to the shoulder
• Fact 5 - Alternative Names of Australian Kelpies and Nicknames: Kelpies
  • The descendents of the Kelpies are believed to be Border Collies which originated on the Borders of Scotland. The word 'kelpie' is Gaelic for water sprite
• Fact 6 - Coat and colors of Australian Kelpies: The coat is normally straight and hard with a longer, denser undercoat and comes in a range of colors including black, black and tan, red, red and tan, fawn, chocolate, and smoke blue
• Fact 7 - Life of Australian Kelpies: the life expectancy of this breed of dog is between 12 - 14 years
• Fact 8 - The names of dog breeds are separated into different dog types which are referred to as Dog Groups. The Australian Kelpie Sheepdogs are not currently registered by the AKC (American Kennel Club) and are therefore in the category of dogs termed Unrecognised & Rare Breeds
• Fact 9 - After the first year of life, dogs are considered to be adults - they equivalent to 16 human years!
• Fact 10 - Choosing Australian Kelpies as pets! The following considerations should be taken into account when choosing this particular breed of dog as a pet:
  • How much it will cost to feed and train the dog?
  • How much time will it take to groom the dog?
  • How much time will it take to exercise the dog on a daily basis?
  • Are Australian Kelpies suitable for children?
  • How much will it cost for vet bills, pet or dog health insurance, medication and vaccinations?
• Fact 11 - Every breed of dog is susceptible to certain health problems and illnesses. Australian Kelpies are prone to health problems and illnesses such as:
  • - Hip Dysplasia (abnormal development of hip joints)
• Fact 12 - Breeding Australian Kelpies for appearance was only introduced in the 19th Century
• Fact 13 - It is estimated that 85% of dogs visit a vet in a year
• Fact 14 - The average cost of owning a medium sized dog, over a 10 year period, is estimated as over $13,000! This provides a good idea of how much it costs to raise Australian Kelpies

For in depth information we highly recommend Dog Names and Breeds.