Traditionally, Australian Kelpies are working dogs that can also be used in herding trials to round up unruly sheep. They are a high-energy breed that loves dog sports and have also been used as a successful search and rescue dog. But what are the main characteristics that Kelpies are so well-known and loved for?
Australian Kelpies can make great family pets because of their excellent temperament and personality, which you will find out more about in this article.
The Australian Kelpie breed is an excellent dog, but obedience training and socialisation are necessary. This highly intelligent breed can have an independent streak, and they make excellent herding dogs.
Here are some of their common personality traits.
Whether protecting a herd or building bonds with a family, the Australian Kelpie will become devoted to those close to them. This breed is traditionally used as a working dog but loves human company and will remain loyal until the very end.
Training a highly intelligent dog, such as the Kelpie, can be very rewarding, but keeping the dog interested can come with some challenges. This breed must get adequate physical and mental stimulation to prevent them from getting bored and developing behavioural issues.
As a herding dog, a Kelpie is naturally very fit and active. It is vital to give them enough exercise so they don’t resort to destructive behaviours due to pent-up energy. They are well-suited to active families with a lot of space in the garden.
If you are looking for a new family pet, an Australian Kelpie dog could be ideal for you if you like to keep active. Here are some other considerations for those thinking about introducing a Kelpie to the family.
Socialising all dogs from an early age is advisable, but especially with the Kelpie breed. This allows them to learn how to interact with other dogs. Taking Australian Kelpie puppies to socialisation classes with other breeds will help them get on with other dogs.
Kelpies can live with other pets, but you must ensure they are well-trained and socialised, as their natural herding instinct might kick in and in turn, they might nip at smaller animals.
The Australian Kelpie temperament makes it a good choice for living with kids. Obedience training from a young age is also important as they can display herding behaviours around smaller children. More often than not, they are protective of smaller kids.
All dogs can have behavioural issues, and the Australian Kelpie is no different. Because they are so intelligent and energetic, they can become destructive if they aren’t mentally stimulated or get enough exercise.
They can also show signs of separation anxiety because they love human company. Speaking with a dog trainer for techniques to minimise this can be beneficial.
Kelpies can be left alone, but they can miss humans and display signs of separation anxiety. Ensuring your dog is well exercised and has toys to keep them entertained can be a great way to minimise this and ensure they are not destructive in your absence.
Australian Kelpies are quite vocal dogs, making them great watchdogs. They can be inquisitive and a bit nervous around strangers so they will voice their confusion or displeasure. They can also be quite loud if they are bored.
Training will help your dog but won’t completely eradicate barking. Kelpies do not respond well to anger or shouting, so this should not be employed to quieten them.
Most Australian Kelpies are incredibly active and need regular and vigorous exercise. An adult dog will need a minimum of around two hours of exercise every day, so only those who can dedicate this time should contemplate this breed.
The high energy levels make them great working dogs that can run for miles. As an Australian Kelpie gets older and less active, its diet must be adjusted to reflect this, or the dog can begin to gain weight.
The Australian Kelpie is known for its great personality and will fit in as a loving family pet and hard-working dog on farms. The breed is even used as a therapy dog.
Highly active Australian Kelpies need a lot of exercise and training, but experienced trainers will find them a dream to work with because of their intelligence.
Natural instincts to try and herd other animals and even kids can kick in occasionally, but the dog is not considered aggressive. The only time it will typically show signs of aggression is when protecting its family.
They are typically healthy dogs with few health problems associated with them, and finding a reputable breeder will give you a much better chance of finding healthy puppies.
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