Australian Kelpie
Male: 15-21 kg, Female: 13-19 kg
Male: 46-51 cm, Female: 43-48 cm at the shoulder
12-15 years
Australia
About the Australian Kelpie
The Australian Kelpie is the quintessential Australian working dog, a master of stock management capable of working long hours in extreme heat. Renowned for their 'eye' and ability to run across the backs of sheep in tight yards, they possess an tireless work ethic and an almost telepathic connection with their handlers. Physically, they are lithe and muscular, built for endurance rather than raw speed. In a domestic setting, the Kelpie is a devoted companion that requires a 'job' to stay happy. They are not suited to sedentary lifestyles; without a physical or mental outlet, their intelligence can lead to inventive but destructive behaviors. They are highly responsive to training and excel in agility, obedience, and tracking, making them one of the most versatile working breeds in the world.
A true-blue Australian working icon
The Australian Kelpie is one of Australia's most respected working dogs. Developed for demanding stock work, the Kelpie is renowned for intelligence, stamina, responsiveness and a natural aptitude for working sheep in both open country and stockyards. Its work ethic and ability to manage livestock have made it an invaluable part of Australian farming.
Key Skills
Highly recommended for: farms, properties, livestock work, herding sports and highly active experienced owners who can provide meaningful physical and mental work.
Usually unsuitable for: inactive homes or owners wanting a low-energy dog without daily training, exercise or purpose.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the ring, a Kelpie should exhibit a tireless, rhythmic gait that covers ground with minimum effort. They are judged on their 'keen and intelligent' expression and a hard-muscled, lithe silhouette that suggests great agility.
In Australia
Developed in Australia circa 1870, descending from North Country Collies imported from Scotland.
Bred For
Sheep herding and stock work in harsh, expansive Australian conditions.
Temperament
Extremely intelligent, alert, eager, and endowed with boundless energy and loyalty.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
, (), Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), and Cerebellar Abiotrophy (a rare neurological condition).
Grooming Needs
Low; weekly brushing to remove dead hair and occasional bathing. Sheds twice yearly.
Living Suitability
Not suited for apartments. Requires a large, secure yard or acreage. Thrives in environments where they have constant tasks or space to run.
Good with Kids
Good with active older children; may attempt to 'herd' younger children by nipping at heels.
Good with Other Pets
Generally good with other dogs if socialized early; high prey drive may trigger chasing of cats or small animals.
Trainability
Exceptionally high; fast learners who require consistent, reward-based training and mental challenges.
Coat & Colours
Short, dense, weather-resistant double coat with a hard, straight outer layer.. Black, black and tan, red, red and tan, fawn, chocolate, and smoke blue.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
The Kelpie's greatest asset—their energy—is also their biggest challenge; they are more likely to develop behavioral issues like digging or excessive barking if their mental and physical needs aren't met. They are predisposed to a strong herding instinct, which can mean they 'eye' or nip at moving objects like bikes or children, though this is easily managed with structured play. Like many athletic breeds, they are more likely to experience hip dysplasia or eye conditions like CEA—this doesn't mean every Kelpie will, but choosing a breeder who screens for these is vital. Some Kelpies can be sensitive to common fillers in commercial kibble, leading to skin irritations or 'hot spots,' and many thrive on a clean, raw Majestik diet that avoids these triggers. They are incredibly loyal but can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods without stimulation.
Feeding Guide for Your Australian Kelpie
Healthy Weight
14-20 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
350-600 grams per day depending on activity level and individual metabolism.
For an active Kelpie, aim for a raw diet consisting of 70% muscle meat, 10% edible bone, 10% organ meat (liver and kidney), and 10% seasonal vegetables. Because they are high-energy dogs, active working Kelpies may require up to 3% of their body weight daily, while pet Kelpies typically thrive on 2.5%.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
High-protein, moderate-to-high fat diet to support extreme energy expenditure; fresh, raw diets are highly effective for maintaining muscle mass.
A foundation of lean Australian proteins like Kangaroo and Beef from Majestik Pet Food is ideal to maintain lean muscle without excess weight. Incorporate raw meaty bones (such as lamb necks or chicken carcasses) for dental health and calcium. Include organ meats for essential vitamins and a small portion of crushed green vegetables for fiber. For highly active dogs, adding a fat source like salmon oil can provide sustained energy.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Australian Kelpie Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Australian Kelpie? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
4-7 puppies
Australian Kelpie Owner Feedback
Real experiences and tips from Australian Kelpie owners
Other Medium Breeds
References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.
