History and general information about the Australian Kelpie
(Our interpretation)
Developed in Australia, Australian Kelpies are decended from the Collie and some believe, the Dingo. They were the result of a cross between a Collie from the north of England and a black and tan female from New South Wales, Australia. The breed's development is from English North Country Collies of the Rutherford strain. The Kelpie breed was born from necessity. The outback climate was too rough and tough for your typical Collie. They were officially recognised as breed in the 1870's. In Scottish folklore a 'kelpie' is a good water sprite in the form of a horse. The Australian Kelpie has become the most popular herding dog is Australia, and has taken great admiration from several other countries for their workability as well. A Kelpie is said to be the equivalent of two men on horseback.
There is a story of an Aussie Kelpie who competed in an 1898 dog trial in Sydney. It is said that the dog completed the full course in the first round, and was, for the first time ever, given 100 points a perfect score. This kelpie was to compete the next day to win the title again, but got struck by a car that night and suffered a broken leg. But, due to the kelpies tireless working tendencies, the next day he competed with permission from the judges and completed the course in 6 minutes and 12 seconds. His leg had not even been set yet. The dog was awarded another 100 points for the course that day, and to this day his legend lives on!
The Australian Kelpie is extremely agile and light footed, capable of a lightening start and a dead stop. They are an outstanding shepherd dog with strong natural herding and guarding instincts. A loyal companion with an inexhaustable supply of energy, Australian Kelpies are devoted to their duties. They will work and work even in extreme discomfort. They are rarely affectionate, but friendly and devoted to their masters. They are intense in the yard and mild mannered in the home, although they prefer being in the yard. Australian Kelpies are considered the best performing medium-sized sheepdog which has made them a favourite among sheep farmers worldwide.
The Kelpie has a compacted body that shows their striated musculature and well developed limbs. Despite their small size Kelpies are without limitations and are capable of working cattle, goat, poultry as well as sheep. They are a versatile breed that just wants to get the job done.
