The Australian Kelpie is not recommended for apartment life. They are working dogs that need plenty of open space to run and will be happiest with a job to do. Their all-weather coat allows them to live where it is hot as well as where it is cold. They will be content to live outdoors with adequate shelter.
How much space do Kelpies need? They are ideal for large spaces with a yard. Kelpies were originally herding dogs and thrive from plenty of exercise and space. As born athletes, Kelpies are not ideal for small apartments and can become destructive if they don't have the space to exert their energy.
The breed is able to spend long days outdoors in the hot sun performing its duties. It's both tough and intelligent. In terms of companionship, these dogs are independent but form close bonds with their human owners. In fact, they do not do very well indoors when left on their own.
Ideally, adult dogs shouldn't be left alone for more than 4 hours.
Working and high energy dogs are a definite no for apartments, this includes Kelpies, Border Collies, Huskies and Cattle Dogs. Dogs that love to protect and bark, like Jack Russells, Beagles and Chihuahuas are also not a great choice for apartment dwelling.
Kelpies are not one of those dogs that can be left alone for a long time because they can suffer from separation anxiety. They will also display many destructive behaviors when left alone. Kelpies are those dogs that love to walk. They run all day with you so they cannot leave alone.
Kelpies are easy to housetrain as they are naturally clean. Once a pup understands the house is not t a place for puddles and messes he will make no mistakes.
For most kelpies it is really hard to relax and shut down without a den: they feel they have to be alert all the time and any movement will trigger their instinct. When a kelpie (pup) is in a crate, covered with a towel or sheet so it cannot see out, it feels safe and secure and will go to sleep.
Kelpies have a moderate tendency to bark. If Kelpies are not provided the physical and mental stimulation they require, they can be prone to boredom and developing problematic and compulsive behaviours such as incessant barking and digging.
Although the Australian kelpie is known to bond with one family member in particular, the breed gets along well with children if raised with them from a young age and responds very well to continued socialization. The breed is extremely loyal and naturally protective of its family and home when necessary.
Kelpies love to cuddle with familiar people. They love to give out kisses. Even though they are very cuddly, you won't be able to keep them on the couch for long. They need their freedom and exercise.
Behavioural veterinarian Nicole Lobry de Bruyn said working dogs — including kelpies, kelpie crosses, border collies and German shepherds — were particularly susceptible to behavioural issues. "We tend to see an increase in anxiety in breeds that become popular," she said.
The Australian Kelpie is not a hypoallergenic dog. He does not generally have a strong doggy smell and only requires a bath usually two times a year unless he is working livestock. His coat should be brushed at least once a week to remove dirt and loose hairs.
Your dog needs to get used to being indoors. Put a leash on her and bring her inside for short periods, even for just a few minutes to give her a tasty treat. Toss treats in the doorway to encourage her to enter if she is too nervous. Never force her.
Kelpies in Australia
They are a herding dog derived from the Scottish smooth collie or farm collie.
The puppy should be compliant and sit for his dinner and obey your commands without question. As your Kelpie begins to mature you will see more and more of their calmness coming through. They tend to be most excitable around 9-14 weeks of age and then very gradually get a bit better.
But there is some good news: a kelpie has a weak spot – its bridle. Anyone who can get hold of a kelpie's bridle will have command over it and any other kelpie.
The Kelpie is relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming with their 'wash and wear coat'. However, for such a short haired dog, Australian Kelpies shed much more than you might think. You'll need to brush them weekly to keep loose hair under control.
The Australian Kelpie is a lithe, active dog, capable of untiring work. He is extremely intelligent, alert, and eager with unlimited energy. As a herding dog, the Australian Kelpie is intensely loyal and devoted to duty.
Kelpies are common working dogs. They are usually extremely alert, highly intelligent and have an almost inexhaustible energy. Plenty of exercise is a must for these energy machines. These medium sized working dogs needs at least 2 hours of exercise a day.
While it's not cruel to keep a pet outdoors in mild weather, dogs are pack animals who thrive with companionship and being close to their owners. So it's only natural that they will be happiest spending time with the family. A dog kept solely outside experiences social isolation and may bark or howl out of loneliness.
Whenever you take your puppy to the toilet, use the same command. For example, you could say the word 'toilet'. Say it before and during the fact. That way, whenever your dog hears the word 'toilet' they know they need to relieve themselves.
Show your dog the toy or food. Run away a couple of paces then call your dog's name and say "come" in a friendly, exciting tone - getting down low can also encourage them to come back. As your dog comes to you, gently hold their collar and either feed them the treat or let them play with the toy.
Your canine will adore the beach as they can run in and out of the water, and swimming is great exercise as it works several muscles all at once. This activity is especially good for health conditions like hip dysplasia and again, can help your dog maintain a healthy weight, as well as being great fun.