Character
The Kelpie’s breed standard describes him as extremely alert and eager with a mild, tractable disposition and an almost inexhaustible energy. He is noted for his loyalty and devotion to his work. This is a highly intelligent and capable dog. He likes to have a job to do, and whatever it is, he will do it well.
Be prepared to provide him with work that will satisfy him, whether that is bringing things to you — the paper, your slippers, dirty laundry left on the floor — competing in agility or obedience, accompanying you on errands or helping you keep an eye on the kids at the park. If you can teach it, he can learn it. Do not underestimate the amount of time and energy it will take to train and live with this dog if you can’t provide him with his traditional herding work or an outlet such as dog sports.
Being a herding dog, the Kelpie’s instinct is to work on his own and think for himself. In his mind, you are a partner, not a boss. Take that into account when you are training him. Respect his intelligence and don’t drill him over and over when it’s clear that he already knows something. This is a dog that is accustomed to and capable of working on his own with little or no supervision.
The Kelpie’s breed standard describes him as extremely alert and eager with a mild, tractable disposition and an almost inexhaustible energy. He is noted for his loyalty and devotion to his work. This is a highly intelligent and capable dog. He likes to have a job to do, and whatever it is, he will do it well.
Be prepared to provide him with work that will satisfy him, whether that is bringing things to you — the paper, your slippers, dirty laundry left on the floor — competing in agility or obedience, accompanying you on errands or helping you keep an eye on the kids at the park. If you can teach it, he can learn it. Do not underestimate the amount of time and energy it will take to train and live with this dog if you can’t provide him with his traditional herding work or an outlet such as dog sports.
Being a herding dog, the Kelpie’s instinct is to work on his own and think for himself. In his mind, you are a partner, not a boss. Take that into account when you are training him. Respect his intelligence and don’t drill him over and over when it’s clear that he already knows something. This is a dog that is accustomed to and capable of working on his own with little or no supervision.
The Kelpie’s herding heritage can work against him in one way, making him wary of anything or anyone unusual. That’s beneficial to an extent—it’s one of the things that makes him a good watchdog, but early, frequent socialization is critical to prevent a Kelpie from becoming overly suspicious or fearful of anything new or different. Purchase your Kelpie puppy from a breeder who raises the pups in the home and ensures that they are exposed to many different household sights and sounds, as well as people, before they go off to their new homes. Run far away from breeders who raise their pups in a barn or a pen out in the backyard. An Australian Kelpie who is to be a family companion needs plenty of socialization. Continue socializing your Kelpie throughout his life by taking him to puppy kindergarten class, the homes of friends and neighbors, and dog-friendly shops and businesses.
Train the Kelpie with a firm hand and consistent direction. For best results, begin training early, keep training sessions short, and use positive reinforcement techniques, never force, which is likely to backfire.
Train the Kelpie with a firm hand and consistent direction. For best results, begin training early, keep training sessions short, and use positive reinforcement techniques, never force, which is likely to backfire.
Start training your puppy the day you bring him home. Even at eight weeks old, he is capable of soaking up everything you can teach him. Don’t wait until he is 6 months old to begin training or you will have a more headstrong dog to deal with. If possible, get him into puppy kindergarten class by the time he is 10 to 12 weeks old, and socialize, socialize, socialize. However, be aware that many puppy training classes require certain vaccines (like kennel cough) to be up to date, and many veterinarians recommend limited exposure to other dogs and public places until puppy vaccines (including rabies, distemper and parvovirus) have been completed. In lieu of formal training, you can begin training your puppy at home and socializing him among family and friends until puppy vaccines are completed.
Talk to the breeder, describe exactly what you’re looking for in a dog, and ask for assistance in selecting a puppy. Breeders see the puppies daily and can make uncannily accurate recommendations once they know something about your lifestyle and personality. Whatever you want from a Kelpie, look for one whose parents have nice personalities and who has been well socialized from early puppyhood.
Talk to the breeder, describe exactly what you’re looking for in a dog, and ask for assistance in selecting a puppy. Breeders see the puppies daily and can make uncannily accurate recommendations once they know something about your lifestyle and personality. Whatever you want from a Kelpie, look for one whose parents have nice personalities and who has been well socialized from early puppyhood.