Kelpie Prices In Australia

Choosing between dog breeds can be hard. There are many things to consider, including the size of the dog when fully grown, its grooming needs, how much exercise it needs, and the cost.

Budgeting for a new pet is not always easy because costs seem to creep up out of nowhere. This article will examine Kelpie prices in Australia and any other expenses you must consider when buying a new dog.

How Much Does a Kelpie Cost in Australia?

The average cost of a Kelpie in Australia is around $1000 – $4,000, but prices can vary depending on several factors, such as bloodline and colour, and the price is usually left up to the breeders to decide. A female Kelpie named Eve sold for a record-breaking $49,000 in 2022. You can expect these prices to be the standard when purchasing a kelpie from a registered breeder. You might find Kelpie pups at a more affordable price through an unregistered breeder.

We encourage you to be cautious with unregistered breeders, especially if the price is too good to be true. For one, you don’t know whether the Kelpies have been ethically bred, nor the quality of their genetics. Best to play it safe with a registered breeder.

Average price of a Kelpie when buying through a registered Kelpie breeder in Australia

In Australia, registered breeders usually sell their Kelpies for between $1000 to $4000. There are a lot of variables that come into play when determining a price. The two main contributing influences to the price include the breeders reputation, and the Kelpie’s bloodline. The more distinguished and pure the bloodline, the hire the puppies would likely cost.

Average price of a Kelpie when buying through an adoption shelter in Australia

If you’re looking for a more affordable alternative to getting a Kelpie, adopting one from an Australian adoption shelter might be the way to go for you. At adoption shelters, you could pick up an Australian kelpie for between $250 to $1,500, depending on the Kelpie’s age and bloodline if they can track it.

Factors Influencing the Cost of a Kelpie

There is no set price guide for Australian Kelpie puppies, and their prices can vary based on factors like those below.

1. Breeder

Finding a reputable breeder with Kelpie pups for sale will not only give you peace of mind, but it should help to minimise the risk of your dog suffering from hereditary health problems. Responsible breeders will regularly check their dogs and won’t breed those with issues that can be passed on to puppies.

A registered breeder should carry all the necessary documentation and give you any information you need about the puppy’s parents.

2. Bloodline

The dog’s bloodline is a good indication of how healthy it will be. Award-winning dogs that are bred can demand a lot of money, as can their puppies.

3. Health checks

Ensuring your new puppy and its parents undergo regular health checks will help minimise the risk of genetic disorders or diseases.

4. Vaccinations

All puppies will have to get their vaccinations, and Kelpie pups are no different. Ensuring that they have all the relevant health checks and vaccinations before buying them is a sign of a responsible breeder.

5. Colour

The Australian Kelpie breed is available in many colours, some more rare or desirable than others. The colour of Australian Kelpie puppies can impact their value.

Cost of essentials for your Kelpie

Kelpies are well-known as hard-working dogs. They’re an intelligent breed with high levels of energy, requiring them to have a stimulating environment and reasonable care. To ensure your Kelpies needs are met as soon as you bring them home, here are some essentials and they’re costs to help you prepare:

• Dog crate: $60 to $300 for a quality crate suitable for travelling and training your Kelpie
• Dog bed: between $40 to $250, depending on the brand and quality of the bed you choose
• Dog collar/lead: $20 to $60 for a sturdy, reliable, quality lead and collar
• Feeding bowl: From $20 to $80 for a steel, plastic, or ceramic feeding bowl
• Dog toothbrush: $20 to $40
• Dog car harness: $25 to over $100 dollars
• Puppy treats: on average, between $10 and $60 based on different brands
• Puppy training pads: $20 to $60 per pack
• Dog shampoo & conditioner: $15 to $60 for a good quality dog shampoo and conditioner
• Dog nail clippers, brushes & combs: $20 to $10,0 depending on the grooming tools you want

Kelpie Maintenance Costs

Australian Kelpie pups can be expensive, but there are other expenses that are part of owning a dog that should be considered too, like:

How much does it cost to feed a Kelpie?

The size of a fully-grown Australian Kelpie ranges from 43 cm to 51 cm in height and 14 kg to 21 kg in weight. This classifies them as medium-sized dogs, but they are traditionally high-energy working dogs that need a lot of exercise and calories.

Your dog’s nutrition is a massive part of its development as a puppy and keeps it healthy as it ages. Dog food prices will vary, but you shouldn’t sacrifice food quality to save a little money. Here’s what you can expect to pay daily for their nutritional needs:

• Cost per day on a dry kibble diet: $2 to $3 a day, with some premium brands costing more
• Cost per day on a wet food diet: $3 to $6
• Cost per day on a raw diet: $5 to $8

Remember that the quality and brand of the food you purchase can have a significant impact on these figures, making them subject to change.

How much will veterinary care typically cost for a Kelpie?

Australian Kelpies are known for being quite healthy compared to other dogs, but there is always the risk your dog may need veterinary attention. Pet insurance is a good option that is relatively affordable for this breed. As and average, vet bills can usually cost about $600 to $1000 a year. Here’s a breakdown of some of these costs:

Costs of routine preventive care

• Annual vet checkups: This can cost between $100 and $300 per year
• Vaccinations: $50 to $150 depending on the vaccination and when it is done
• Worming and parasite protection: $50 to $200 a month for flea, tick, and worm protection
• Dental cleaning (every 1-2 years): $200 to $600. These prices vary depending on who you take your dog to
• Pet insurance: $25 to $150 a month

Health scares can be scary and come out of the blue for anyone, dogs and humans alike. Because Kelpie’s are working dogs, they may be more prone top injury of you use them in that capacity. So, best to budget in these estimates just in case.

How much should I expect to pay for Kelpie grooming?

Apart from the routine brushing that the Australian Kelpie requires, this breed is typically low-maintenance with no extensive grooming needs. However, they can benefit from seeing a professional groomer every now and then. Here’s what that will cost:

• Hydrobath prices: $35 – $70 per session
• Full groom prices: $80 – $120 per session
• Face, feet & tail groom prices: $60 – $80 for a basic tidy around the face, feet, and nails

Kelpie training Costs

Kelpies are remarkable working dogs. They are intelligent, quick on their feet, and fast learners. However, to get the working fit, they need to be trained first. Here’s what it will roughly cost you to train your Kelpie in Australia:

• Obedience training: $50 – $700 per session or for a 4-6 week course, depending on the trainer you book
• Puppy training $100 – $250 for a 4-6 week course or longer if needed
• Specialised training, including aggression and anxiety: $300 – $2,000 because it often takes more time and concentration from an individual trainer

Understanding the full costs of owning a Kelpie in Australia

While some Australian Kelpie dogs can go for huge prices, they aren’t usually too expensive, and a new Australian Kelpie puppy can make a great pet. Their beautiful double coat consists of a short, easy-to-manage outer coat and dense undercoat that helps to protect them from the elements. They are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a medium-sized, lively dog.

However, before you make the decision to buy one, make sure that you are prepared for the cost; aside from the initial purchase fee, you’ll still need to buy all the essentials, budget for food and vet bills on a monthly basis, and the cost of training if you’ve bought a Kelpie puppy. With all that in mind, you can prepare yourself for the new furry addition to your home.