Australian Kelpie

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History/Origin
The Australian Kelpie was discovered in the Land Down Under in 1870. It was introduced in by the hardworking herders in and played a main role in developing the wool market in the country. This dog was specifically bred to deal with the harsh Australian landscape, wide acreage and hard-to-deal-with sheep. Despite being relatively small, the Australian Kelpie does not have any limitation and is capable of handling many types of livestock including cattle, goat, reindeer and poultry. In other parts of the continent, the dog is raised mainly to work.

Description
The head of an Australian Kelpie is slightly rounded and broad between the ears. Its ears are erect, running to a fine point at the tips while its eyes are medium-sized, almond shaped and are generally brown in color. Its teeth end in a scissor's bite.

The dog's back is moderately long, while its chest is deep. It also appears to have sloping shoulders and possesses muscular and broad rear legs. For the most part, its tail slightly curve when at rest. The Kelpie generally has a short, thick coat and is usually colored black, black and tan, red, red and tan, fawn, chocolate or smoke blue. The Kelpie does not fall short when it comes to its stature though its only averages from 17 to 20 inches in height and weighs around 25 to 30 pounds.

Temperament
The Australian Kelpie loves freedom of movement to being penned in. It is one of the most sociable breeds in the canine family that is very intelligent, active and alert. Easy to train for obedience, tracking or as a simple pet, the Kelpie's greatest happiness is the loving care of its owner. It dislikes bad treatment and cannot concentrate if upset. If mistreated, it may lose respect for its owner and will no longer wish to please them.

Australian Kelpie generally is gentle by nature, humble and devoted, and very smart. It is never shy nor easily frightened. It can exhibit patience or endurance beyond what its owner might have expected. It has a talent for anticipation - often acting before a command is given.