Australian Kelpie is a highly intelligent and energetic dog breed. They impress pet owners with their work ethics and agility. Australians received this dog breed from Scotland in the late 19th century. They quickly established themselves as sheep herders. History says that their origin relates to foxes. Yet they have actually descended from the Scottish smooth Collie.
How Australian Kelpies look like
Australian Kelpies are medium-sized dogs. They stand between 17 and 20 inches tall and weighs between 35 and 50 pounds. They have some attractive features that make them easily recognizable. Their large, upright ears, sleek and smooth coat, and a coat color palette that includes shades of red, brown, tan, and black impress pet owners with their smartness and elegance.
Care for an Australian Kelpie
Australian Kelpies are loyal and intelligent. They require substantial exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. The happy-go-lucky factor is that these dogs are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Unlike other dog breeds, how many tasks you assign an Australian Kelpie though, they thrive on engaging in every task. Especially they love agility courses and dock diving. These activities reflect their historical role as working dogs too.
Despite their high energy, Kelpies are affectionate companions who enjoy spending time with their family members. It is essential to socialize Australian Kelpie puppies early and consistently to ensure they develop into well-rounded and confident adults.
Health Issues in Australian Kelpies
While Australian Kelpies are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 10 to 13 years, they are susceptible to certain health issues:
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Hip Dysplasia: This genetic condition arises when your dog’s joints have been malformed. It leads to arthritis and pain. Help your dog to maintain a lean body weight and give them supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin. It helps to manage the symptoms of hip dysplasia. In severe cases, you may have to give your dog into surgery.
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Luxating Patella: This condition occurs when the kneecap dislocates from its groove, potentially causing discomfort and leading to arthritis. There are different treatments for this condition. Your dog will have to take joint-supplements if the case is mild, yet if it is severe surgical treatment will be prescribed by the veterinarian.
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Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): PRA is an inherited condition that causes progressive vision loss, eventually leading to blindness. As there are no effective treatments, it is advisable to ensure that breeding dogs are tested for this condition.
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Cerebellar Abiotrophy (CA): This degenerative disease affects the cerebellum in the brain, impairing balance and coordination. It typically manifests between 6 weeks and 6 months of age and progresses over time.
Feeding and Nutrition
To ensure a balanced diet, feed your Australian Kelpie dog food that meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards. Puppies should receive food specifically formulated for their growth or suitable for “all life stages” until they transition to adult food.
Kelpies should be fed twice daily. Puppies require three to four meals a day. To avoid obesity, measure their food portions and consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate caloric intake based on size, activity level, and overall health.
Adding omega-3 fatty acids to their diet, available through fish oil or specialized dog foods, can support their skin, coat, joints, and heart. Always consult with your vet before introducing new supplements to your Australian Kelpie.
Behavior and Training o
Australian Kelpie is a high-energy breed that thrives on exercise and mental challenges. They do best in environments where they have space to run and engage in purposeful activities. They may develop anxiety if they do not get enough exercise and physical reinforcement they need. Also, they turn out to be destructive and shows annoying behaviors like chewing and digging. Therefore you may socialize your dog at early stage of adoption by giving him or her a proper training. Kelpies respond well to positive reinforcement and enjoy participating in dog sports or having a “job” to keep them engaged. Thus their early exposure to various stimuli, including other animals and children, will help them adapt better to different situations as they mature.
Grooming Needs
Australian Kelpies have a smooth double coat that requires less grooming. Regular brushing helps manage shedding. They generally do not need special skin care unless they become particularly dirty or smelly. Unlike other dogs you need not make your kelpie bath frequently. You may brush your dog weekly which will be more than enough for its coat care. If you notice any signs of eye issues, you may take your dog for eye consultation. Clean ears bi-weekly to prevent infections. Consult a vet if there is excessive debris or signs of discomfort.
In conclusion, if you are already a pet owner or hoping to become a pet owner of Australian kelpie, try to understand and address their unique needs. Consequently you can ensure a healthy and fulfilling life for this remarkable breed.
