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"Small Dog Breed Catalog"
Small Dog Breed Catalog: Page 2
of 56
Australian Kelpie Dog Breed
This dog breed is very active along with great stamina and suppleness.
Standing only18-20 inches, he has the strong and solid look of a
Shepherd. The female Australian Kelpie should stand from 17 to 19
inches in height. Most dog owners prefer a larger and longer version
of this breed.
The Australian Kelpie is considered to be a very tough herding dog and
is a quiet worker capable of moving any livestock, though chiefly
suited toward sheep and cattle. They are athletic and live mostly
independent. The Kelpie has too much energy to be kept solely as a
pet, though they are notably affectionate, especially with children.
The Kelpie must be kept very busy and so if you plan on being an owner
of this breed then you must take into account this dog's strong
herding instinct and realize he will not be happy if you and your
family are all he has to 'herd.' And though he is a tough dog that
has an intimidating look for a small breed, he is not well suited as a
guard dog.
Physical Description
The head is broad between the ears and the skull is flat which tapers
to the muzzle. The ears should stand perky and be moderate in shape
without spooning over. His eye spacing is considered to be wide for
his face structure. They are shaped like almonds and are dark in
color. The eye color may be light in some cases which will create a
'mean looking' appearance.
The Kelpie's neck is thick and strong and the shoulders are narrow
that slope downward. The chest runs deep. His Hindquarters should
show breadth and strength with a longer than short haunch. The tail
bends in a slight curve, raised when excited. Coat is moderately
short, flat with a good undercoat. Colors include black, black and
tan, red, red and tan, fawn, chocolate, and smoke blue.
Health and Life-span
When it comes to the Australian Kelpie's health he is one of high
stamina. An amazingly athletic and adaptable dog, he does not suffer
from any prominent genetic or hereditary conditions. This dog also
possesses a strong defense against diseases. However, the one thing
that will stress this dog's mental as well as physical health is lack
of activity. Plenty of exercise and mental stimulation are extremely
important. If the Kelpie is not able to move about and exercise
regularly then the stress resulting from being sedentary will
literally cause him to self-destruct. The average life span is about
ten years.
Copyright 2006 by Jay Jennings. All rights reserved.
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