Kelpie

In the twentieth century, the Australian Shepherd was developed in California from Australian sheepdogs. Californian farmers and ranchers used the breed as a working dog.

The Australian Shepherd is extremely active, hardy, and fast. This intelligent dog can cover up to 60 km per day while tending large herds. This exceptional herder also guards the farm. Affectionate, gentle, good-natured, and very loyal, the Australian Shepherd makes a good pet.

This dog of almost unlimited energy is made for wide-open spaces. He should not be kept in enclosed spaces and is not made for life indoors. Regular brushing is sufficient to maintain the coat.

Head:Clean-cut, strong, and dry. Length equal to width. Moderate, well-defined stop. Black or brown nose in harmony with coat color.
Ears:Set on high. Triangular. Moderate size. Break forward or to the side when dog is alert. Prick or hanging ears are severe faults.
Eyes:Almond shape. Brown, blue, amber, or any variation or combination thereof.
Body:Strong neck. Straight, strong topline. Deep chest. Ribs well sprung. Moderately sloped croup.
Tail:Straight, naturally short or docked (may not exceed 10 cm).
Hair:Of medium length and texture. Straight and wavy. Moderate mane, frill, and culottes.
Coat:Blue merle, black, red merle. All of these colors with or without white markings, with or without tan (copper). White color must not extend beyond the withers. White permitted at the neck, on the chest, legs, and muzzle underparts, with a blaze on the head. Eyes must be fully surrounded by color.
Size:Dog: 51 to 58 cm.Bitch: 46 to 53 cm.
Weight:20 to 25 kg.
Group:Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs)